Unveiled at SIHH 2017 with Geneva, Paris and New York editions, the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection now welcomes a new model depicting the aerial view of Beijing.
On its dial, the twinkling lights of Beijing appear. The shimmering glow of the Imperial City viewed from above carries a hint of its manifold splendours testifying to a proud history. The more intense halos of certain monuments, landmarks and particularly animated streets surround the vast Forbidden City, which remains less brightly lit and more mysterious.
The Meridian Gate, the Gate of Heavenly Peace and Tian’anmen Square can be distinguished on this meticulous cartography composed of enamel and precious powders.
Depicting the stunning aerial views of world’s most beautiful cities on their dial, wrist watches from Vacheron Constantin’s Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection offer a sparkling encounter between two exceptional arts: Grand Feu champlevé enamelling, a skill passed on for almost three centuries by the Vacheron Constantin artisans; and hand-applied precious powder, a technique mastered by Japanese guest artist Yoko Imai.
The timepieces of the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection are certified by the Hallmark of Geneva, a sure token of precision and reliability issued by an entirely neutral and independent body. Manufacture Vacheron Constantin mechanical self-winding Caliber 2460 SC drives a display of the hours, minutes and seconds.
Visible through the transparent case-back, the 22K gold oscillating weight features a finely executed decoration inspired by the Maltese cross, the Vacheron Constantin signature emblem. Each of the components, whether visible or hidden, is adorned with finishes crafted in accordance with the finest watchmaking skills exemplified by bevelling, circular-graining and polishing. The movement is protected by a precious white gold case.
Technical details
Model: Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières Beijing, Reference 86222/000G-B107
Certification
Hallmark of Geneva certified timepieces
Availability
Only available in Vacheron Constantin Boutiques
Movement
Calibre 2460 SC
Developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin
Mechanical, self-winding
26.2 mm (11 ¼’’’) diameter
3.6 mm thick
Approximately 40 hours of power reserve
4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
182 components
27 jewels
Indications
Hours, minutes and center seconds
Case
18K white gold
40 mm diameter, 8.9 mm thick
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water-resistance tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approx. 30 meters)
The name of the city is engraved on the back of the timepiece
Dial
18K gold dial with Grand Feu champlevé & translucent enamel and powder of precious stones (diamonds, pearl) & precious metal (gold, platinum) filled by hand
Strap
Black Mississippiensis alligator leather with alligator inner shell, large square scales
Buckle 18K white gold buckle
Polished half Maltese cross-shaped
Other features
Presentation box: Luxury model
Accessory: Delivered with a magnifying glass