Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac - Year of the Pig

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Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac - Year of the Pig - Vacheron Constantin
To celebrate the Chinese New Year, Vacheron Constantin enriches its Métiers d'art collction with two special editions dedicated to the new Chinese zodiac sign. On the 5th of February, the dog will give way to the pig.

Since 1845, Vacheron Constantin has been cultivating special ties with China, a nation which first introduce the art known as Jianzhi. This paper-cutting technique is echoed in Swiss culture through its famous Scherenschnitt paper-cutting. This artistic approach, highlighted in the Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac, has been given a fresh interpretation thanks to the expertise of the master engravers and enamellers. Vacheron Constantin thus presents two models, realised in twelve models each, to celebrate the year of the pig. Honest, generous, epicurean, the sign of the pig will take over from the dog at the Chinese New Year on February 5th 2019.

Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac - Year of the Pig

The foliage motif appearing on the dial and based on classic Chinese iconography is etched directly in the metal. The pattern remains semi-embedded and stands out from its gold base by a subtle stage-setting of variously accentuating reliefs creating a depth effect. This makes the vegetation appear to be floating over the dial. Then comes the stage of Grand Feu enamelling, an ancestral technique that remains the preserve of a very few particularly skilled artisans. By applying the enamel in successive layers, the enamel specialist enhances the intensity of the blue or bronze-toned dial. Achieving the necessary mastery of colour and of reactions to firing at temperatures between 800 and 900 degrees Celsius calls for an expertise that can only be acquired over long years of experience. The pig, made of platinum or pink gold, is hand engraved and delicately applied to the dial centre.

Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac - Year of the Pig

Calibre 2460 G4 makes it possible to create a distinctive and ideal stage-setting for the decorative arts, by giving the central dial motif a starring role. The hands-free time display is achieved through four apertures showing the hours, minutes, days and dates. These indications – the first two of the dragging variety and the last two of the jumping type – embody the longstanding savoir-faire of the Maison in designing and developing original displays. Clearly visible through the sapphire crystal back of the platinum or pink gold case, the 22-carat oscillating weight is adorned with a recurrent Maltese cross-inspired pattern testifying to finishes performed in keeping with the finest watchmaking traditions. All movement components are indeed finely finished in accordance with the criteria of the Hallmark of Geneva.

See also the special models dedicated to the Chinese zodiac from Blancpain, Jaquet Droz, and Panerai

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