Words: Charlie Thomas
Lots of brands were celebrating anniversaries at this year’s SIHH watch fair. None were quite as prominent as Vacheron Constantin’s though, as they celebrated their 260th year since their inception back in 1755. Indeed, they are the oldest continuously running watch brand in the world, which is quite the achievement.
To mark such a momentous affair, the esteemed Swiss watch brand unveiled an entirely new line of watches. The Harmony collection takes Vacheron in a new direction, whilst managing to perfectly reference their past. With their cushion-shaped cases and vintage-inspired dials, these pieces are knock-out beautiful to say the least.
, The original chronograph from 1928
Taking its inspiration from a chronograph that Vacheron made in 1928, the Harmony collection spans five calibres, all of which have been graced with the Hallmark of Geneva, attesting to the quality that one comes to expect from Vacheron.
HARMONY ULTRA-THIN GRANDE COMPLICATION CHRONOGRAPH
The jewel in the crown of the Harmony collection is the Grande Complication. Perfectly proportioned, this highly exclusive piece boasts a platinum case which houses a split-second monopusher chronograph, powered by an all-new self-winding movement.
Turn the watch over and the intricate movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back. Unusually for an automatic watch, the rotor actually runs around the outside of the movement allowing the full innards of the watch to be on display. It should also be noted that this is the thinnest watch of its kind in the world, measuring just 8.4mm thick.
HARMONY DUAL TIME
The Dual Time maintains the elegance of the Grande Comp, yet simplifies the dial giving it a slightly more subtle aesthetic.
Of course, the watch’s party trick is its second time-zone at 4 o’clock, making it easy for jet-setters to adjust to their current locale.
HARMONY TOURBILLON CHRONOGRAPH
A masterful creation, the Harmony Tourbillon Chronograph is Vacheron flexing their muscles. Dominating the dial is the enormous tourbillon escapement at 12 o’clock, but it’s the smaller details which really make it stand out.
Part of the allure of Vacheron’s Harmony collection are the intricate hand engravings visible on the movements. On the Tourbillon though, the bridge supporting it has been given the special treatment too. Time to get out those loupes, gentlemen.
HARMONY CHRONOGRAPH
This is the timepiece directly inspired by the 1928 chronograph – essentially it’s a modern-day interpretation. Its pulsometric scale runs around the outer dial and the two sub-dials remain, whilst the blued steel hands and numbers give it a modern twist.
Yet another brand new movement created by Vacheron, the Caliber 3300 is made up of 252 individual parts. Its 18k pink gold case combines with the brown alligator strap to complete the dressy look. It’s an enviable combination indeed.
For more information on the Vacheron Constantin Harmony collection, click here.
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