Zodiac signs given a visual representation on a Vacheron Constantin timepiece
Vacheron Constantin Unveils Métiers d'Art Tribute to The Celestial Series
Vacheron Constantin has introduced a new collection, the Métiers d'Art Tribute to The Celestial series, which comprises 12 exquisite watches inspired by the zodiac and the night sky. Each watch in the series represents a Western zodiac sign with its corresponding constellation depicted through intricate guilloché engraving on deep blue dials, accented with brilliant-cut diamond stars.
The watches are encased in 39mm 18K white gold and surrounded by 96 baguette-cut blue sapphires, creating an elegant representation of the night sky. The dials themselves and the Calibre 2160 movement within reward close inspection.
Complex Dial Creation Process
The creation of each dial involves eight meticulous steps, including sunburst finishing, constellation mapping, guilloché engraving, diamond setting, opaline accents for human figure signs like Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Aquarius, and finishing touches such as applying the Maltese Cross emblem. The guilloché technique, developed in-house by Vacheron Constantin, transforms geometric engraving into expressive celestial imagery, requiring approximately 16 hours per zodiac motif.
Calibre 2160 Movement
Powering the watches is the automatic tourbillon Calibre 2160, an ultra-thin movement measuring just 5.65mm thick. The movement features Côtes de Genève finishing, hand-bevelled bridges, and a tourbillon cage shaped like the brand’s signature Maltese Cross. The Calibre 2160 offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve and is certified with the Poinçon de Genève, a hallmark of excellence.
A peripheral rotor ensures an unobstructed view through the open caseback of the watches. The Calibre 2160 movement is housed within a dark blue alligator strap, reinforcing the celestial theme of the watches.
Zodiac-Inspired Design
The dials depict recognisable zodiac symbols and their corresponding constellations, with some including opaline detailing. The blue dials are laid over a sunburst-finished gold base and are framed by a halo of 96 baguette-cut blue sapphires. The channel-setting of the sapphires forms a seamless ring of colour, echoing the circular motion of the heavens.
The series continues Vacheron Constantin’s long tradition of celestial and zodiac themes, drawing inspiration from previous masterpieces such as the bespoke Minute Repeater Tourbillon Sky Chart Leo Constellation Jewellery created by the Les Cabinotiers workshop and the 250th-anniversary celestial sphere clock.
In conclusion, the Métiers d'Art Tribute to The Celestial series stands out by marrying horological precision with detailed celestial artistry, combining technical performance with symbolic and visual storytelling of the stars and zodiac.
- The featured zodiac symbols and constellations on the watches' dials are part of a long tradition at Vacheron Constantin, drawing inspiration from their celestial and zodiac masterpieces.
- The blue dials of the Métiers d'Art Tribute to The Celestial series are laid over a sunburst-finished gold base and are framed by a halo of 96 baguette-cut blue sapphires, contributing to the fusion of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden aesthetics.
- The Calibre 2160 movement, with its Côtes de Genève finishing, hand-bevelled bridges, and tourbillon cage shaped like the brand’s signature Maltese Cross, showcases Vacheron Constantin's expertise in the realm of technology and lifestyle.
