In the world of luxury, where opulence meets precision craftsmanship, the fusion of mechanical engineering and artistry often gives birth to extraordinary creations. One such remarkable collaboration has recently come to light as Vacheron Constantin, the renowned watch Manufacture, teamed up with the British luxury house Rolls-Royce to create a truly unique timepiece. This horological masterpiece, named the Les Cabinotiers Armillary Tourbillon, designed to fit seamlessly into the interior of the exquisite Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail, is an embodiment of the shared pursuit of excellence by these two iconic brands.
The project was initiated in response to a special request from a distinguished client who has a penchant for both luxury cars and fine watches. This client’s desire was to have a timepiece that not only complemented the interior of the Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail but also adhered to the highest standards of engineering and design. This request was met with enthusiasm by Vacheron Constantin’s Les Cabinotiers department, known for crafting bespoke timepieces tailored to clients’ unique desires.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Vacheron Constantin’s modern history, as it represents the first time the brand has created a timepiece specifically designed to be integrated into an automobile. The attention to detail and technical precision required to execute this project seamlessly demonstrate the dedication of both Vacheron Constantin and Rolls-Royce to their respective crafts.
The Les Cabinotiers Armillary Tourbillon, is a true work of art. It is designed to be displayed on the fascia of the Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail, a wooden veneer finished with Calamander Light open pore wood. The timepiece is housed within an elegant yet removable holder mechanism, allowing for easy access and admiration. The collaboration between Vacheron Constantin’s master watchmakers and the Rolls-Royce Coachbuild design team ensured that the shapes, materials, and colors of the timepiece harmonized perfectly with the car’s interior, reflecting Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to excellence.
At the heart of the timepiece is the exceptional Calibre 1990, a hand-wound in-house complication movement that incorporates technical innovations inspired by Reference 57260, one of the most complicated timepieces ever created by Vacheron Constantin. The choice of the calibre was influenced by its bi-retrograde display, reminiscent of vintage motor car speedometers. The hands of the timepiece are made of titanium, a lightweight and sturdy material that contributes to the accuracy of the display. The tourbillon, a complex regulator designed to compensate for the effects of gravity, takes center stage in this timepiece. Its intricate “armillary” version is a tribute to the work of 18th-century watchmaker Antide Janvier, showcasing the craftsmanship and innovation that both brands are known for.
The technical innovations in Calibre 1990 led to the filing of four patents, covering aspects like the instantaneous retrograde system and the architecture of the tourbillon carriages. These innovations not only enhance the timepiece’s performance but also exemplify the spirit of innovation shared by Vacheron Constantin and Rolls-Royce.
The level of detail and precision exhibited in the creation of the timepiece’s holder mechanism is equally impressive. Vacheron Constantin’s mechanical engineers had to develop a mechanism that met the exact dimensions of the car’s fascia compartments while allowing for rotation and easy access. The holder, made of polished steel with a black PVD-coated inner frame, is a masterpiece in itself. It houses the timepiece on a white gold base-plate adorned with a hand-crafted sunburst guilloché motif, echoing the Maltese cross emblem.
#LUXAPPROVED
Be the first to leave a review.
