Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac Collection introduces two exquisite 25-piece limited editions dedicated to the year of the dragon. These horological masterpieces, crafted in either 950 platinum or 18K 5N pink gold, weave together the artistry of engraving and enamelling with the technical prowess of Calibre 2460 G4, culminating in a breathtaking tribute to the dragon – a symbol synonymous with nobility, strength, good fortune, and success.
In Chinese culture, the dragon reigns supreme, boasting a multitude of virtues that transcend generations. As the Year of the Rabbit gracefully concludes its reign, the dragon, a mythical and majestic creature, takes center stage on the dials of the two new Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Dragon limited editions, unveiled at Watches and Wonders Shanghai. This supernatural being not only embodies honor, nobility, success, and good luck but also holds an enduring legacy as a potent symbol of Chinese imperial power. It is undeniably the most revered zodiac sign in the rich tapestry of Chinese traditions.
The watch dial serves as the canvas for this symbolic masterpiece, and the dragon, with its serpentine silhouette, emerges as the protagonist. The dragon’s presence is brought to life through meticulous engraving and delicate enamelling, resulting in a fantastical work of art that seamlessly blends strength and finesse – a testament to the rare skills honed by Vacheron Constantin’s artisans.
The process of creating these exceptional timepieces involves the harmonious marriage of engraving and enamelling. The dial, sculpted from gold, becomes a dreamlike canvas adorned with airflows and clouds inspired by traditional Chinese artistic motifs. The dragon, the focal point of this masterpiece, is painstakingly hand-engraved, showcasing an unparalleled level of detail that leaves onlookers in awe. Over three days of meticulous craftsmanship go into the creation of this mystical figurine, complete with around 300 meticulously engraved scales. To enhance the symbolic depth of the composition, a similarly hand-engraved pearl is added, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and abundance.
Adding to the uniqueness of each timepiece, every 25-piece limited edition features a distinct dial color, achieved through the skilled hands of the enamelling artisan. The 40mm-diameter case, available in either 950 platinum or pink gold, is elegantly paired with a handcrafted alligator leather strap. The platinum version boasts a deep blue Grand Feu enamel dial, harmonizing beautifully with a blue Mississipiensis alligator leather strap. Meanwhile, the pink gold iteration features a captivating brown Grand Feu enamel dial, its allure matched by a tone-on-tone Mississipiensis alligator leather strap.
Beyond the exquisite artistry, Vacheron Constantin is committed to pushing the boundaries of horological technology in the service of artistic creativity. Within the Métiers d’Art collection, the in-house self-winding Calibre 2460 G4 takes center stage, showcasing its mastery. The hands-free watch face is ingeniously designed with four apertures that reveal the passage of time, displaying the hours, minutes, and day-date functions. As an ode to craftsmanship, the sapphire crystal caseback, available in 950 platinum or 18K 5N pink gold, unveils the inner workings of Calibre 2460 G4, beginning with its 22K gold oscillating weight adorned with a motif inspired by Vacheron Constantin’s iconic Maltese Cross emblem.
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