Vacheron Constantin writes its latest chapter of the Métiers d’Art
Marking the next chapter in its longstanding tribute to Chinese heritage, Vacheron Constantin unveils two limited editions of just 25 pieces each, created in honour of the Year of the Goat. Housed in a 40 mm case crafted from either 950 platinum or 18-carat 5N pink gold, the timepieces pair artistic mastery with horological innovation through the manufacture Calibre 2460 G4. Designed without traditional hands, the movement displays its indications via four peripheral apertures, preserving the dial as an expansive stage for craftsmanship. Relief engraving, miniature enamel painting and grand feu enamelling come together to portray the goat, the eighth sign of the Chinese zodiac, a symbol traditionally associated with harmony, integrity, resilience and prosperity.
The release continues a tradition established in 2012, when the Maison launched its annual Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac series, inspired by both Eastern symbolism and its historical fascination with cultural exchange. These latest creations also celebrate a relationship between Vacheron Constantin and China that stretches back to the nineteenth century, when highly decorated watches crafted by the Maison found favour among members of the imperial court. Archival records document shipments to Canton as early as 1846, marking the beginning of a connection that has continued through successive generations and inspired numerous collections rooted in Chinese mythology, symbolism and artistic traditions.
At the heart of the watch lies the self-winding Calibre 2460 G4, a movement composed of 237 components and distinguished by its unconventional display system featuring dragging hours and minutes alongside jumping day and date indications. Visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, the open-worked 22-carat gold oscillating weight is adorned with the Maltese Cross emblem and surrounded by traditional Haute Horlogerie finishes, including Côtes de Genève, hand-bevelled bridges and perlage. The movement’s exceptional execution is further affirmed by the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva.
The dial showcases a newly interpreted artistic language, centred on a sculpted gold goat standing atop a rocky outcrop. Hand-engraved and subtly patinated, the motif is enriched with miniature enamel painting that highlights its textures and contours, while a meticulously crafted background combines graduated grand feu enamel with hand-painted foliage. Each dial requires weeks of painstaking work, with multiple firings at temperatures exceeding 800°C to achieve the desired depth, luminosity and chromatic richness. Completing the presentation, the pink-gold edition is paired with a dark brown alligator strap, while the platinum version is fitted with dark blue alligator leather, each secured by a folding clasp fashioned from the same precious metal as the case.
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