Vacheron Constantin's Astounding New Automaton Clock Shows Time on Earth and Among the Stars
Vacheron Constantin Unveils Limited Edition Watch and Automaton Clock to Celebrate 270th Anniversary
Vacheron Constantin, the world's oldest continuously operating timepiece manufacturer, is marking its 270th anniversary with a unique collection. The Swiss watchmaker has created a limited edition of 20 watches, the Méritiers d'Art Tribute to the Quest of Time, and an automaton clock, La Quête du Temps, or The Quest for Time.
The Méritiers d'Art Tribute to the Quest of Time watch is a testament to the grand gestures of the clock, distilled into a wearable format. The night sky chart on the watch recreates the night above Geneva on September 17, 1755. On the reverse side, a sidereal time display charts the stars in real time. The golden figure on the dial raises its arms to indicate hours and minutes on twin retrograde arcs.
The watch is packed into a 43 mm white gold case and is limited to 20 pieces. Wearers can choose between keeping the display going continuously or letting it rest in a neutral pose until activated. The movement, Calibre 3670, is a manually wound movement, and the watch boasts a six-day power reserve.
The movement of the Méritiers d'Art Tribute to the Quest of Time watch is an echo of the maison's 2019 Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar's movement, which offered dual modes of operation. The watch features a precision three-dimensional moon phase indicator and twin retrograde power reserve displays on the dial side.
La Quête du Temps, standing taller than most toddlers, is an automaton clock adorned with constellations and has a mechanical music box that plays melodies composed by Woodkid. The automaton clock contains a new movement, Calibre 9270, with 2,370 components and 23 complications. An automaton nicknamed "the Astronomer," designed by François Junod, tells time with its arms.
Laurent Perves, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, expresses the company's pride and emotion, fuelled by the quest for excellence and innovation. "We are passionate about creating timepieces that push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking and celebrate the rich history of our brand," he says.
The collaboration behind La Quête du Temps includes master automata builder François Junod, CEO and creative director Arnaud Nicolas of L'Epee 1839, and Vacheron Constantin’s senior designer Alexia Steunou, along with project manager Luc de Siebenthal.
This anniversary collection is a testament to Vacheron Constantin's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence in watchmaking.
