Vacheron Constantin built its reputation for high-end watches on tradition, craftsmanship and horological technology - and it is these qualities which define this year's novelties.
The focus is the Patrimony series, which evokes the watchmaker's heritage and classic expression. The collection was launched two years ago and takes the elegant style of its watches from the 1930s and 1950s as its design cue, but presents each in a contemporary fashion. A classic round case, knurled case middle, screw-down crystal case back, dauphine hands and faceted trapezoid hour markers characterise the collection.
The 38mm Patrimony Traditionnelle houses a new 4400 Calibre. Entirely developed by the brand's research and development department, the manual-winding movement combines haute horology and cutting-edge technology. An impressive barrel gives it a 65-hour power reserve; it also displays the hours, minutes and small seconds at 6 o'clock.
The movement's 28.5mm diameter was designed for the contemporary cases and, in line with tradition, the plate, bridges and major components are hand-decorated, even those which are not visible.
Marc Guten, international director for Vacheron Constantin, said its timepieces relied on the history of the brand and that its heritage in tradition and craftsmanship were evident in all its ranges.
'The first is watchmaking, which demonstrates our knowledge,' he said. 'Our new movement, the 4400 Calibre, bears the hallmark of Geneva and was entirely developed in Geneva. It has a three-day power reserve, which is very unusual. This is a demonstration of Vacheron Constantin's development strategy.'