How can one respectfully celebrate the design legacy of another culture? The answer lies in consulting experts to ensure authenticity, which is precisely what Swiss brand Vacheron Constantin has accomplished with their new Métiers d’Art Tribute to Traditional Symbols collection.
This exclusive collection includes four limited edition watches, featuring two versions of the “Seawater Cliff,” an esteemed motif from Chinese culture that originated during the Ming dynasty and received its official designation under Emperor Wanli. Vacheron Constantin’s artisans collaborated with Mr. Song, a former associate research librarian at the Palace Museum and expert in the cultural traditions of Imperial China, to craft dials that mirror this motif, widely seen in court architecture, furniture, porcelain, and particularly, on Imperial dragon robes.
The first design, named Eternal Flow, employs a traditional Chinese technique called Jintai Blue, which is a form of cloisonné enameling. This design illustrates mountain peaks embraced by ocean waves beneath a starlit sky.
Creating this design involves the meticulous use of 220 gold wires to outline various elements of the motif, taking over 50 hours to complete. Enamel layers are applied based on desired color and intensity, with each layer fired in a kiln before adding the next. Final touches include polishing and a clear enamel coat to enhance the appearance.
The alternative design, named Moonlight Slivers, features a monochromatic base with a depth effect. It showcases hollowed waves, blue enamel accents, and raised diamonds set against a choice of either 18K white or pink gold, presenting a more subdued style compared to the Eternal Flow design.
This design also incorporates enameling techniques, with background waves engraved into the dial to create an elegant flow. Each tide is hand-set with diamonds, reflecting the moonlight that inspired the piece’s name.
Under the dial, the watches are powered by an in-house calibre 2460, boasting a 40-hour power reserve. The 22K gold rotor features engravings that echo the motifs of the dial, symbolically representing the movement of waves and tides.
This article was first seen on Esquire Singapore.
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