Introducing Vacheron Constantin and New York’s Metropolitan Museum Collaborate

Since its establishment in 1755, Vacheron Constantin has maintained a steadfast dedication to the arts, a commitment that remains intrinsic to its identity today. Recently, the brand has unveiled remarkable creations such as the Métiers d’Art Tribute to Explorer Naturalists and Les Cabinotiers editions. In 2023, Vacheron Constantin initiated a partnership with The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), forged upon a mutual pledge to preserve and transmit knowledge and expertise. Both institutions boast extensive legacies in conserving artistic mastery, and together, they aim to advance this dedication to the arts. According to Louis Ferla, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, "the pursuit of excellence is an ongoing endeavor that perpetually enriches us with new insights." 

The partnership between Vacheron Constantin and The MET will encompass various mission-driven projects, including an artist-in-residency program and educational initiatives, which will be unveiled in due course. The first initiative to be revealed is the expansion of the ‘Masterpiece on your Wrist’ program. Originally launched in 2019, the ‘Masterpiece on your Wrist’ initiative presents discerning enthusiasts with an exclusive opportunity to procure a customized, one-of-a-kind timepiece, featuring an enamel dial reproduction of a masterpiece housed in the world’s leading museums. This collaboration with The Metropolitan Museum of Art expands the program's offerings, introducing iconic and cherished pieces into its catalog. Vacheron Constantin and The MET have already identified several exceptional works, such as Wheat Field with Cypresses by Vincent van Gogh, Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies by Claude Monet, Northeaster by Winslow Homer, and sculptures like Diana by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, which can be recreated within the ‘Masterpiece on your Wrist’ collection.

For clients interested in commissioning a piece, Vacheron Constantin collaborates with The Met to facilitate a connection with the museum’s curators. This allows clients to explore the museum's artworks and sculptures, including perusing the archives, to select the piece they wish to replicate on their watch dial. While there are certain parameters, the range of possibilities is nearly limitless. Once the art for the dial is chosen, clients can select from four case styles, multiple case metals, and three movements, offering variations from a time-only caliber to a minute repeater tourbillon, ensuring the creation of a truly unique timepiece.

Additionally, clients can choose the specific Métiers d’Arts technique they prefer Vacheron Constantin’s master artisans to employ. As part of the commissioning process, the brand also extends an invitation to clients to visit its Manufacture in Geneva, where they can observe the dial painting process and engage with the master artisans.

To showcase the potential of this bespoke commission program, Vacheron Constantin has developed renders of four timepieces, each featuring renowned artworks such as Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies by Claude Monet, Wheat Field with Cypresses by Vincent van Gogh, Northeaster by Winslow Homer, or sculptures like Diana by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. These masterpiece dials are crafted using two techniques: miniature enamel painting for paintings and grisaille enameling to create the illusion of sculpture, all executed within Vacheron Constantin’s Métiers d’Art facility.

Beyond the dial, Vacheron Constantin offers participants in the program a choice of three in-house calibers for their bespoke commissions.
 

The Calibre 2755 TMR, a manual-winding mechanism, 33.9 mm diameter, and 6.1 mm thickness, this caliber boasts an impressive 58 hours of power reserve, operating at 2.5 Hz (18,000 vibrations per hour). Comprising 471 components and adorned with 40 jewels, it meets the exacting standards of Hallmark of Geneva certification. Its remarkable functionalities include a Minute Repeater, Power Reserve indicator, Tourbillon, along with indications for hours, minutes, and small seconds on the Tourbillon.

The Calibre 1731, bearing the name of Jean-Marc Vacheron's birth year, is a testament to Vacheron Constantin Mechanical's commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. With its manual-winding mechanism, 32.8 mm diameter, and slender 3.9 mm thickness, this caliber Boast an impressive 65 hours of power reserve and operating at 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour), it comprises 265 meticulously crafted components, adorned with 36 jewels, and bears the Hallmark of Geneva certification. Its distinguished features include a Minute Repeater complication, seamlessly integrated with indications for hours and minutes.

The Vacheron Constantin Calibre 2460 SC is a self-winding mechanical movement designed with precision and elegance. It features a small and thin build, measuring 26.2 mm in diameter and 3.6 mm thick. Its oscillating weight, made of luxurious 22K pink gold, is engraved with The MET façade. With around 40 hours of power reserve and operating at 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), it ensures accurate timekeeping. This caliber, consisting of 182 components and 27 jewels, is certified with the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva. It displays the hours, minutes, and central seconds, providing simplicity and reliability for watch enthusiasts.

 Pricing for these commissions is available upon request and will be determined after consultation with a Vacheron Constantin boutique consultant.

For more information please visit Vacheron Constantin’s official website.