Vacheron Constantin is about to shake up the watch world with a thrilling announcement! The renowned Swiss watchmaker is gearing up for a global competition that will have collectors and enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. But here's where it gets exciting: this contest is not just about showcasing the latest and greatest.
Vacheron Constantin, in collaboration with Phillips and Bacs & Russo, is launching the Vacheron Constantin Concours d'Élégance Horlogère, a celebration of both historical and modern masterpieces in the realm of haute horlogerie. Picture this: a grand stage where vintage and contemporary timepieces compete for glory across seven prestigious awards.
But there's a catch! To enter the competition, collectors must submit a VC pocket or wristwatch released between 1755 and 1999, excluding quartz watches, clocks, and heavily modified pieces. And now, let's dive into the categories that will have watch lovers buzzing with anticipation.
First up, the chiming mechanism category, reserved for timepieces with minute, quarter, half-quarter repeaters, or grande sonnerie. Next, chronographs take center stage, showcasing watches with two or three counters, single pushers, or split-seconds mechanisms. But wait, there's more! The astronomical complications category highlights watches with triple, complete, or perpetual calendars. And the multiple complications category? You guessed it—a showcase of watches with at least two complications.
The final three categories are equally captivating. Chronomètre Royal will compare watches bearing this official designation, métiers d'art (excluding skeleton pieces), and design, where Vacheron Constantin's signature style choices on the case or time display will be celebrated. But here's where it gets controversial—the competition's criteria.
Each timepiece will be judged on nine distinct aspects: authenticity, elegance, rarity, impact on Vacheron Constantin's history or watchmaking in general, provenance, technicality, métiers d'art, state of preservation, and emotional dimension. And here's the twist: each watch can only compete in one category, adding a strategic element to the submission process.
The judging panel is a who's who of experts, designers, and historians from around the globe. Watch historian Nicholas Foulkes, Urwerk cofounder Felix Baumgartner, and vintage watch specialist Auro Montanari are just a few of the esteemed names. Aurel Bacs, watch specialist and cofounder of Bacs & Russo, along with Vacheron Constantin's heritage and style director Christian Selmoni, will lead this distinguished jury.
Aurel Bacs shares his enthusiasm, "As a long-time admirer of the Concours d'Élégance concept, I'm thrilled to bring it to the world of fine watchmaking. Vacheron Constantin's support for the first-ever Concours d'Élégance dedicated to timepieces is a dream come true. I can't wait to witness the remarkable discoveries and intellectual discussions that will arise from this competition."
Mark your calendars! The competition opens for entries on January 19, with submissions closing on April 30. You can register on Vacheron Constantin's website or at their stores. The winners will be crowned on November 10, after Phillips and Bacs & Russo's fall auctions, and they'll receive not just trophies but the ultimate bragging rights.
Are you ready to witness watch history in the making? Let the competition begin, and stay tuned for the captivating journey ahead. And remember, in the world of luxury watches, sometimes the past is just as exciting as the future. What do you think about this unique competition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
