An adventure into the world of fine art and the intricacies of craftsmanship awaits.
Vacheron Constantin has extended a one-of-a-kind Les Cabinotiers watch up for auction exclusively on the Christie’s website, as part of the “Bid for the Louvre” auction. Held from December 1st to 15th 2020 exclusively on the Christie’s online, all proceeds will go to the The Louvre Museum‘s solidarity projects.
The world’s oldest watch Manufacture’s commitment to preserving heritage through the generations, and its deep regard for art and culture, is a perfect fit for the event.
Our ongoing commitment to art and the transmission of savoir-faire – which has been expressed alongside the Louvre since the announcement of our partnership a year ago – takes on even greater significance within a global context that is troubled and challenging in more ways than one. Putting up for auction a Les Cabinotiers timepiece based on a masterpiece, a one-of-a-kind model personalised in accordance with the acquirer’s wishes, symbolizes the identity of our Maison and its mission to promote the sharing of culture and emotions.
Louis Ferla, Vacheron Constantin CEO
The bespoke one-of-a-kind timepiece will sport a dial with a reproduction of an artwork kept in the Louvre Museum and chosen by the successful bidder, who will begin this journey into the creative process with a private visit to the Louvre in Paris led by a curator, to select the masterpiece that will be reproduced on the dial.
The masterpiece gracing the dial will be crafted in miniature enamel or grisaille enamel, a delicate skill dating back to the 16th century, reserved for the most skilled of artisans in pigments and fire. A rare white enamel known as Limoges white is layered onto dark enamel coating the gold dial base, and then fired in a kiln, layer by layer, following pre-defined firing times to the tee. The multiple firings could change the original colour and brilliance, so it would be extremely challenging to compose a colour palette that would match the original work of art in the eventual outcome.
The journey will then bring the acquirer to the Vacheron Constantin Manufacture in Geneva to meet the master watchmakers, and the enamellers and engravers working on this extraordinary timepiece. Personalisation begins from the choice of either a platinum, pink gold or white gold case, to the engraving on the case and officer case-back, and the choice of strap – material, colour, stitching and marking.
Powered by the 2460 SC self-winding calibre, this exclusive creation will feature a transparent case-back that highlights the 22-carat gold oscillating weight open-worked in the shape of a Maltese cross, the symbol of Vacheron Constantin. In true respect for watchmaking expertise, the timepiece will undergo hand finishing, bevelling, circular-graining and polishing.
The experience concludes with the delivery of the timepiece accompanied by two certificates of authenticity: one from Vacheron Constantin; and another from Le Louvre Museum certifying the reproduction of the artwork.
Images courtesy of Vacheron Constantin, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
Related Links:
Vacheron Constantin: The New Romantic
Vacheron Constantin: Les Cabinotiers Grand Complication Phoenix
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Collection 2020: Motion of Time
Vacheron Constantin: Traditionelle Extraordinaire
