Vacheron Constantin Releases A Series Of Four Limited-Edition Watches In The Métiers d’Art Collection

The “Seawater Cliff” motif, dating back to the 14th century, is a powerful symbol representing stability and longevity. It depicts wave-battered cliffs, steadfast and unyielding in the face of nature’s forces, embodying the emperor’s resilience against life’s challenges. Traditionally embroidered on the ceremonial robes of Chinese emperors, this motif is now exquisitely translated onto the dials of these limited-edition watches, housed in elegant 38 mm cases made from 18K pink or white gold.

The creation of these timepieces was a deeply collaborative process, guided by the expertise of Mr. Song, a scholar with profound knowledge of Chinese history and symbolism. His insights were instrumental in ensuring that the “Seawater Cliff” motif was faithfully represented and enriched with layers of cultural significance. The resulting dials are a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to preserving and honoring cultural heritage through their horological creations.

The “Seawater Cliff” motif is brought to life using the ancient art of cloisonné enameling, a technique deeply rooted in Chinese craftsmanship. This intricate method involves creating compartments with fine gold wires filled with enamel. The process is thorough, requiring over 50 hours to shape the motif and an additional 70 hours to achieve the vivid, rich tones that define the final piece. The result is a vibrant depiction of wave-lashed cliffs set against a starry night sky, with the peaks bordered by ginger bud-shaped vegetation—an homage to traditional Chinese ornamentation.

At the heart of these timepieces lies the in-house Calibre 2460, a movement chosen for its aesthetic elegance and compact design. With its 40-hour power reserve, this caliber drives the central hours and minutes hands, seamlessly integrating with the dial’s intricate design. The 22K gold rotor, engraved with a motif echoing the movement of waves, further enhances the watch’s thematic continuity.

One of the most captivating aspects of these watches is the hand-engraved bezel adorned with a bat motif. In Chinese culture, the bat symbolizes good fortune, and the engraver has rendered it in a frieze of volutes that represent the animal’s silhouette. This detail, combined with the brilliant-cut diamonds set into the waves of the second interpretation of the motif, adds depth and elegance to the timepieces, making them true masterpieces of craftsmanship.

In a recent interview, Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Style & Heritage Director, elaborated on the inspiration behind the “Seawater Cliff” motif. He explained that the Maison sought to explore traditional Chinese symbolism in a way that would complement their existing collections, particularly those celebrating Chinese New Year. Through their collaboration with Mr. Song, they could delve into the rich decorative arts of ancient imperial palaces and court ceremonial robes, ultimately choosing the “Seawater Cliff” motif for its profound symbolism and aesthetic potential.

The Métiers d’Art—Tribute to Traditional Symbols series stands as a shining example of Vacheron Constantin’s ability to blend horological excellence with cultural expression. These limited-edition watches are not just timepieces but also wearable works of art that honor the rich traditions of ancient China, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of history imbued with deep cultural meaning.