Vacheron Constantin

Les Cabinotiers collection is regarded as the pinnacle of modern complicated horology.

It is best described by the Manufacture's own words: 

'Loyal to the spirit of its founder, Vacheron Constantin continues the tradition of offering its best clients the chance to create made-to-measure watches. Today, this service is offered through a dedicated department, bringing together all of the skills needed to make these exceptional pieces: Les Cabinotiers. Made up of expert professionals, this team possesses immense technical and manual expertise, a wealth of scientific knowledge and a profound curiosity for new ideas to be able to create highly-complicated watches on demand.'

The name 'Cabinotier' dates back from the 18th century when it was used to described highly reputable and skilled watchmakers and artisans using a little workshop located on the top floors to benefit from a maximum of light through numerous small windows. These workshops were mainly located in Saint-Gervais in Geneva.

The present lot is a perfect and most attractive example of the finest creations of the Cabinotiers department.

At the first glance, the blue dial highlighted by the pink gold indexes matching the two dauphine hands appears quite understated. After closer inspection, one can admire some intricate details such as the engine turned work realized in the inner part of the minute track. While the gold indexes stand in their usual position, the minute track and the hands are slightly off-centered to create some space to the tourbillon cage revealed at 8 o'clock. This unusual layout combined with the decorating work create a dynamism counter-balancing the minimalist design. The effect is further enhanced by the rotation of the tourbillon.

The watch features a hidden second dial that is revealed through a re-invented officer case system. Indeed, instead of a caseback and a cuvette opening with a hinge attached to the side of the case, the construction of this case is radically different with an opening system hidden inside the lugs that is activated by pressing the discreet button between the lugs at 6 o'clock. This hidden dial features the perpetual calendar and the moon-phases in four subsidiary dials. This second dial is also in the same blue hue and has similar decorative tropes as the main.

In addition to the tourbillon and the perpetual calendar, this watch also has a minute repeating complication. It is activated by the slide on the left hand side of the case. The sound is loud and clear, in the pure tradition of the best Geneva creations.  

This unique Vacheron Constantin Cabinotier is not only a Grand Complication piece, it is the expression of the finest craft, tradition and innovation that the horological world can offer. Preserved in attractive condition and accompanied by its original accessories, it represents a superb opportunity for a connoisseur to acquire a true treasure.