Vacheron Constantin has introduced “Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin”, a new line that combines the artistic beauty of time with exceptional skill and expertise.
Honoring the cyclical aspect of time, the collection finds inspiration from Asian traditions and the changing seasons, showcasing detailed wood marquetry and innovative watchmaking.
Central to the collection is a highly symbolic portrayal of the seasons through four sacred animals from Asian mythology: the Azure Dragon for spring, the Vermilion Bird for summer, the White Tiger for autumn, and the Black Tortoise for winter. Every creature is carefully portrayed on the dials using a detailed marquetry technique, in which more than 200 small wood pieces from 12 different species are delicately shaped, sanded, and put together, similar to a fragile puzzle. The outcome is a set of dials that not only serve their purpose but are also breathtaking pieces of art.
The ultra-thin Calibre 2160, just 5.65mm thick, is the foundation of this artistic piece. With a tourbillon regulator, 80-hour power reserve, and peripheral rotor, this movement showcases the remarkable expertise in horological engineering. Each aspect of the motion is meticulously hand-finished to perfection, from the decorated bevelled bridges with Côtes de Genève to the unique Maltese cross tourbillon carriage adding a special touch to the watch.
These exceptional timepieces are inspired by the deep exploration of seasonal cycles and celestial themes throughout its history. Prior collections, like Métiers d’Art – La Symbolique des Laques and the pieces inspired by the Chinese Zodiac, set the foundation for this next phase. Choosing wood marquetry as the artistic medium introduces a sense of warmth and natural beauty, demonstrating a profound appreciation for nature and heritage.
Each timepiece in the collection takes more than a month to craft, with every dial requiring a near-microscopic level of precision. The dedication extends to the selection of the woods themselves, which include sycamore, eucalyptus, and burl wood, among others. Staining and heating techniques ensure the perfect color palette, while every component, no thicker than 0.4mm, is individually shaped to bring the mythical creatures to life.
Vacheron Constantin goes beyond just a watch with Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin, delving into the concept of time by merging linear chronology with the cyclical rhythm of nature. With almost 270 years of constant craftsmanship, these watches showcase dedication to innovation, heritage, and artistry.
For collectors and aficionados, this collection is more than just a tribute to high-end watchmaking – it is a reflective exploration into the core of time.