Three numbered limited-edition watches Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Tourbillon honor the Chinese legend of the Phoenix and the Dragon. A finely engraved 18K 5N pink gold case is decorated with the legendary creatures taking shape in the form of sculpted appliques on a hand-guilloché dial.
Representing the balance between strength and grace, the Phoenix and the Dragon have been linked to Chinese culture for centuries. Dragons are always composite creatures that symbolize the unity of power and feature various body parts derived from snakes, alligators, lizards, carp, eagles and tigers. The Phoenix – king of birds whose finery is inspired by the peacock, pheasant, parrot, duck, rock and crane – embodies the five essential virtues of benevolence, righteousness, prosperity, sincerity and wisdom.
Vacheron Constantin pays tribute to these legendary creatures with three limited-edition timepieces. Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle tourbillon showcases the dance of Phoenix and Dragon around the pearl – a characteristic cultural symbol of China. The two creatures are represented in the form of 18K 5N pink gold appliques that are stamped and then hand-finished using the pounced ornament technique that involves modeling with a scorper and then smoothing the reliefs with a file. Thanks to the mobile tourbillon carriage shaped like Vacheron Constantin’s Maltese cross emblem, the entire scene comes to life, with the regulator serving as a support for one of the dragon’s legs.
Depending on the galvanic treatment used for the hand-guilloché dial, it adopts a black, deep blue or silver-toned hue, giving impressive depth to this mythological scene.
On the bezel and lugs, the sky is represented by a succession of volutes, carved in bas-relief. After drawing the motifs with a tracing point, the engraver works the decoration with a scorper, like a chasing operation that is ever-more refined as the tool becomes sharper. Volumes take shape, thanks to a delicate alternation of matt and glossy finishes.
Positioned at 6 o’clock, the tourbillon operates at rate of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz). It is visible through the sapphire caseback. The movement construction includes a peripheral rotor winding the barrel to provide a comfortable 80-hour power reserve. The choice of the peripheral rotor also contributes to the slenderness of Calibre 2160 which, despite the presence of the tourbillon, is barely 5.65 mm thick.
This ultra-thin movement with its 188 components has made it possible to offer an 18K pink gold case with a total thickness of 11.21 mm and a 41 mm diameter that is suitable for all wrists. The watch is available with a black, deep blue or brown alligator leather strap, depending on the model.
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