Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Legend of the Chinese Zodiac - Year of the Rooster

　　To continue the passionate dialogue with collectors and fine watchmaking enthusiasts, Vacheron Constantin specially presents the latest tribute in the Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac series—the Year of the Rooster timepiece. Chinese New Year falls on 28 1 2017, marking the departure of the Year of the Monkey and the arrival of the Year of the Rooster. Unveiled on this occasion, the two new creations are limited to twelve pieces each, stamped with the Hallmark of Geneva, showcasing the exceptional technical performance of the 2460 G4 calibre andVacheron Constantin watchesthe boundless elegance of artistic craftsmanship.

　　Paper-cutting craft, the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures

　　Vacheron Constantin has shared a special bond with China since 1845. The Chinese art of paper-cutting shares striking similarities with Scherenschnitt, the famous paper-cutting art in Swiss culture. This craft has become a highlight of Vacheron Constantin's Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac series, given a fresh interpretation through the dedicated collaboration of master engravers and master enamellers.

　　The integration of multiple artistic crafts

　　The foliage motif on the dial stems from classic Chinese patterns, engraved directly onto the gold dial. Designed in semi-embedded relief, the pattern combines varied depths to create a sense of deep dimension, making the flora appear suspended above the dial.

　　Next comes the Grand Feu enamelling stage, an ancient craft mastered by very few artisans today. By applying successive layers of enamel glaze, the master enameller further enhances the visual intensity of the blue or bronze dial. Fired at temperatures between 800 and 900 degrees Celsius, the enamel dial demands strict control over glaze colour and firing reactions, requiring expert judgement that takes years to master. The hand-engraved platinum or pink gold rooster motif is then delicately set into the centre of the dial.

　　A movement offering ample space for artistic creation

　　The movement provides a uniquely clever and ideal stage for the watch's decorative artistic design, allowing the central dial motif to take centre stage. Featuring a handless time display, four aperture windows display the hours, minutes, day and date. The first two displays use a sliding system, while the latter two employ jumping numerals—an original display method designed and crafted by Vacheron Constantin, perfectly demonstrating the brand's timeless excellence in craftsmanship. Through the transparent sapphire crystal case back of the platinum or pink gold case, one can admire the 22K gold oscillating weight within the movement, adorned with continuous Maltese cross motifs that highlight a heritage of fine watchmaking expertise. Every component is meticulously finished to meet the stringent criteria of the Hallmark of Geneva, a certification of which Vacheron Constantin is the most faithful ambassador.

Related reading:

How much is the cheapest Vacheron Constantin watch?

Chinese-style Relationships: everyone wears a fine watch like this

A Vacheron Constantin replica watch interprets tonneau aesthetics and encounters wrist elegance.

Which is better, Vacheron Constantin or Patek Philippe? Which is more suitable for a wealthy, elegant woman?

They say wearing a watch reflects your character; it took Na Ying 30 years to wear a Vacheron Constantin watch.