Vacheron Constantin offers a miniature masterpiece
Initiated in 2019, Vacheron Constantin’s partnership with the Louvre Museum in Paris enters a new stage. The Swiss company has launched an experiential offer called “A Masterpiece On The Wrist” for the creation of a unique Les Cabinotiers watch, whose dial will feature an enamel reproduction of an artwork from the Louvre chosen by the purchaser.
Back in the 18th century on top floors or under the roofs of Geneva’s buildings, horologers set their ateliers, called cabinets, in order to receive the most of natural light for executing their craft. Dubbed cabinotiers, they were inspired by astronomy, mechanical engineering and the arts in making exceptional timepieces.
Today, Vacheron Constantin’s Les Cabinotiers department combines artistic crafts with watchmaking expertise to create grand complications and unique pieces.
Its master enameller previously worked on the dial of Les Cabinotiers – Homage to Pierre Paul Rubens, La Lutte Pour L’étendard De La Bataille D’Anghiari for the “Bid For The Louvre” auction in December 2020.
The challenge was to transcribe a drawing composed of ink and pen strokes onto a dial measuring merely 3.3cm in diameter.
Besides Genevan miniature painting techniques, grisaille enamel was interpreted to create depth-effect highlights with the help of blanc de Limoges, in order to give greater relief and movement to the horse’s mane.
The painstaking reproduction of Ruben’s work involved about 20 shades of brown, alternating with many firings at 900°C.
In pink gold, the one-of-a kind timepiece also features engraving of 17th
century Cerca Trova calligraphy on
the officer-type caseback.
The movement’s oscillating weight is engraved with a depiction of the Louvre’s east-facing facade that represents the cultural and artistic collaboration between the two institutions.
Following the example of this tribute to Pierre Paul Rubens, “A Masterpiece On The Wrist” combines a bespoke Les Cabinotiers watch with the experience of a private tour of the Louvre as well as a visit to the Manufacture Vacheron Constantin in Geneva.