Metiers d Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac 2014, year of the horse

Legendary watchmaker Vacheron Constantin, celebrate the 2014 Year of the Horse with two amazing limited editions

To celebrate the 2014 Year of the Horse, Vacheron Constantin has introduced a fresh tribute in the ongoing saga of the Métiers d Art collection, The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac, a series of captivating timepieces based on the 12 year cycle. A symbol of a lively and independent spirit, the sign of the horse will take over from the snake on February 1st 2014. To mark this auspicious occasion, the watchmaker presents two new creations enhanced by enamelling and engraving. These incredible watches are crafted in pink gold or platinum and limited to 12 pieces each so you need to be quick!

The leaf motif, stemming from classic Chinese iconography, is directly engraved in the gold dial. The pattern remains semi embedded and stands out from its gold base by a subtle stage setting of variously accentuated reliefs creating a depth effect. The raised bamboo stalks appear to be floating over the dial. Then comes the stage of Grand Feu enamelling, a technique invented in Geneva and which remains the exclusive preserve of a rare breed of artisans. By applying the enamel in successive layers, the enamel specialist further enhances the visual intensity of the blue or bronze toned dial. The necessity of maintaining tight control of the colour and the reactions to the firing process that takes place in a kiln at around 800 to 900C, calls for a specific way of reasoning that takes years to acquire. A final layer of enamel is then applied before a final firing operation that vitrifies the dial and lends a shiny glazed effect that gives added definition to the floral motif. The horse is delicately applied to the centre of the dial, poised as if ready to gallop through the sapphire crystal and thus creating a truly striking effect.

Métiers d Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac collection owes its superb scope for expressing the decorative arts notably to Calibre 2460 G4. In keeping with its longstanding tradition of offering a broad variety of original displays, Vacheron Constantin perpetuates the art of watchmaking by providing a hands free display of time. It does so through four windows respectively revealing the hour, the minutes, the day and the date. The first two indications are of the dragging kind and the last two of the jumping type, and each appears through one of the four apertures arranged around the central dial motif. Beating at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the mechanical self winding movement is equipped with a 22k gold oscillating weight adorned with a dynamic geometrical motif inspired by the shape of the Maltese Cross, the historical House emblem. All its parts are treated to exceptionally sophisticated finishing that meets the criteria laid down by the Hallmark of Geneva, one of the highest tokens of horological craftsmanship created way back in 1886 and recognised around the world. This requirement now applies to the entire timepiece, which is duly certified by the Hallmark of Geneva.

The 2014, year of the horse model, part of the Métiers d Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac collection, is endowed with that unique touch of soul possessed by watches bearing the Hallmark of Geneva. The collections are available exclusively through Vacheron Constantin Boutiques.