The new Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Split-Second Chronograph unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2021 is crafted in platinum.
It is a busy year for Vacheron Constantin, as the brand unveils one of the most extensive introductions of complicated watches. From a new ultra-thin split-second chronograph in its Traditionnelle line, to a new celestial piece in the coveted Les Cabinotiers line, Vacheron Constantin continues to set new standards. The venerable brand has been creating haute horlogerie watches for centuries and continues to refine and innovate.
The Traditionnelle Split-Second Chronograph just unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2021 is a new high complication for the brand’s classic collection. Powered by the thinnest self-winding 3500 Caliber created in house for the brand’s 260thanniversary in 2015, the 42.5mm watch is crafted in platinum.
The movement of the Traditionnellel Chronograph Split second chronograph features a peripheral motor to keep the thickness to a minimum.
The exceptional movement offers column-wheel split-second chronograph with a 60-minute counter. The split-second function allows for timing of events that start at the same time but have different ending times, such as a horse race. When the crown is pressed, the center sweep-second hand and the split-seconds hand both begin running but are superimposed. When the push piece at 2:00 is activated, the split-second hand stops while the sweep-second hand continues running. The first time is recorded by the watch and then another push of the button sends the hand back to the beginning to its tucked position.
The movement consists of 473 individually finished components and offers 48 hours of power reserve. It is the thinnest of its type of complication, with the movement measuring 5.2mm thick and the entire watch measuring just 10.72mm thick. Perfect for under a shirt cuff. The brand was able to achieve this thinness thanks to a 22-karat gold peripheral oscillating weight. Instead of the traditional rotor on the movement, the peripheral rotor around the outside of the movement takes up much less space. The weight is decorated with the brand’s Maltese cross logo and is mounted on ball bearings.
Just 15 pieces of the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Split-Second Chronograph will be made, each retailing for $288,000.
Every part of the new Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Split- Second Chronograph watch is finely finished and the movement bears the Hallmark of Geneva certification, attesting to that fact. In addition to a platinum case, the dial, clasp and even the stitching on the alligator strap is platinum. The dial features 18-karat white gold applied hour markers, minutes and small seconds hands. The outer flange features a tachymeter scale for measuring distance. Just 15 individually numbered pieces will be made. It retails for $288,000.
