The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, forms alliance with Vacheron Constantin.
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Swiss luxury watchmaker Vacheron Constantin and New York’s renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) have joined forces to create an artistic and cultural alliance that transcends horology. This unique partnership, driven by a shared commitment to preserving and celebrating art and knowledge, marks a significant milestone in the world of art and education.
Vacheron Constantin, a storied Maison with a heritage dating back to 1755, has long been devoted to the transmission of knowledge and craftsmanship through generations. The founding act of the Maison itself, an apprenticeship contract signed in 1755, exemplifies this dedication to nurturing talent and ensuring the continuity of expertise.
Vacheron Constantin CEO Louis Ferla (left) and The Met’s Max Hollein
Today, Vacheron Constantin remains steadfast in its commitment to apprenticeship and mentorship programs, integrating aspiring artisans into its production processes and ensuring that the savoir-faire developed over centuries is passed down to the next generation of watchmakers.
According to Louis Ferla, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, “The quest for excellence is a constant challenge in which we never stop learning. Establishing a partnership with the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art enables us to highlight our shared vocation for transmitting knowledge and preserving the arts. Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to art and culture has always been an inexhaustible source of inspiration, permeating our freedom to create and express beauty in all our watches.”
The alliance between Vacheron Constantin and The MET is designed to support culture, art and fine craftsmanship.
In line with their mutual commitment to knowledge and creativity, Vacheron Constantin and The Met are launching the “One of Not Many Mentorship Program.” The program, named for Vacheron Constantin’s highly successful “One of not many” marketing campaigns, will provide opportunities for talented individuals to benefit from the expertise and guidance of accomplished mentors in various artistic disciplines, fostering a spirit of innovation and excellence.
Like Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to culture, the Met, founded in 1870, has a rich history of making art accessible to people from all walks of life. Its Education Department alone offers over 29,000 educational events and programs throughout the year, ensuring that art remains an inclusive and enlightening experience for all.
Historically, Vacheron Constantin’s connection with the United States dates back to the 19th century, with the Maison producing bespoke watches for American collectors and even crafting timepieces for the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1918. In 1921, the brand unveiled its much-loved American 1921 watch to honor the Swiss/American relationship.
This partnership between Vacheron Constantin and The Met signifies a deepening of their cultural ties, ushering in a new era of artistic and cultural exchange. The collaboration will encompass a range of projects, including artist-in-residency programs, educational initiatives, special events, and the creation of exceptional timepieces inspired by artworks from The Met’s vast collection.
The Vacheron Constantin / MET alliance will also support the MET’s two year artist-in-residence program.
This is not the first time Vacheron Constantin entered into a collaboration to benefit future generations. Several years ago, the brand formed its collaboration with Abbey Road Studios, enabling young musicians access to experts in music production. Similarly, the brand has formed an alliance with principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, Chan Chun Wai, who teaches ballet to young students.
Additionally, Vacheron Constantin is no stranger to museum affiliations. It teamed with the Louvre in 2022 for an exceptional collection of watches, Tribute to Great Civilizations of the World, and works with the museum on on-going projects and bespoke experiences.
For this partnership, there will be both mission-driven activities, including educational initiatives, as well as a bespoke timepiece program inspired by artworks from The Met collection. Vacheron Constantin also says the door is open for additional exciting events and initiatives in the future. While there is no single artist tied to the program, a variety of The Met’s mission-driven activities will be supported, including the Met’s two-year artist-in-residency program, which will be a beneficiary of this Partnership
