Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase Watch Review
The Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase was unveiled at Watches & Wonders 2024. To create the timepiece, the esteemed Maison collaborated with Yiqing Yin, the Haute Couture designer. Featuring an asymmetric dial, endowed with a pleated pattern, this high-end wristwatch brims with femininity. US-based Meehna Goldsmith shares her thoughts in her inimitable style.
Vacheron Constantin Égérie collection (2020)
Vacheron Constantin introduced the Égérie collection in 2020. Designed specifically for women, the timepieces combine the concepts of Haute Couture and Haute Horlogerie. The collection takes its name from the nymph Egeria, which translates to Égérie in French. This mythological figure is known as a muse and female advisor.
The Égérie timepieces recall aesthetic codes from some of Vacheron Constantin’s most iconic models dating back to the 19th century, such as the off-centre display which is anchored by two intertwined circles. Further playing with the elegance of geometry, the moon phase forms part of a subtle diagonal line from the brand’s moniker at 8 o’clock to the crown located at 2 o’clock, an unexpected yet bold and stylish position that varies from the traditional 3 o’clock.
Vacheron Constantin x Yiqing Yin
In presenting the latest addition to the “One of Not Many” campaign, Vacheron Constantin invited designer Yiqing Yin to create a limited edition for the Égérie collection. Yin has a specific vision recognised by blurred silhouettes with a gossamer feel combined with elegant pleating and draping effects. Her creations feature silvery mauve fabrics overlaid with soft lilac or moiré Parma violet colours.
Image – Vacheron Constantin Égérie – The Pleats of Time, a concept watch
Yin has an impressive résumé. She graduated from ENSAD (École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs de Paris) and has won many awards for her sartorial creations. In addition, she has collaborated with several brands, including Cartier, Guerlain, Hermès and Swarovski. Her work can also be seen on stage and screen. The resulting new Égérie moon phase Yin designed with Vacheron Constantin captures the beauty and emotion found in her Haute Couture creations.
Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase dial
The Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase can be immediately recognised by the pleated motif that represents the sumptuous fabric of Haute Couture. In a soft lilac, the mother-of-pearl dial beckons for discovery. The centre resembles a resplendent skirt embroidered with 18K gold pearls at the bottom, while similar pleating around the dial continues the theme. Just like in her clothing, Yin plays with textures. For instance, the 18K 5N hand-applied gold numerals on the chapter ring are set against a dreamy diaphanous background. Even the slender hands are tapered, echoing an embroidery needle.
Located between 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock, the moon phase offers its own little universe. The gold moons, forged from 18K 5N pink gold, glide against a deep purple sky surrounded by gold rimmed, undulating clouds, also crafted in lilac mother-of-pearl. This mini celestial scene is rimmed in gold and dressed up with no less than 36 round-cut diamonds. Further illuminating this timepiece portrait, the bezel glimmers with 58 brilliant-cut diamonds. No less thought went into the crown, which presents another flash of colour with an embedded moonstone to match the lilac hues, revealing the subtle yet important details that elevate this timepiece into a work of art.
Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase – case and movement
Cradled in a 37 mm diamond-set 18K 5N pink gold case with a svelte 10.08 mm profile, the Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase is equipped with the Manufacture Calibre 1088 L. This self-winding movement has a 40-hour power reserve, is decorated with Côtes de Genève and is visible through the transparent case back. Adding motion to picture, the 22K gold rotor sensuously swings round the movement. More than just a functional element, its open-worked design, inspired by the shape of the Maltese cross, acts like an accessory adding more panache to an outfit. Engraved on the back of the case is Yiqing Yin’s name along with the watch’s individual number, one of 100 limited edition pieces.
Instead of being limited to one look, the Égérie moon phase comes with three interchangeable straps in pastel hues, offering lilac alligator leather, powder pink grained calfskin leather and night blue satin-effect calfskin. According to Yin, “These feminine, evanescent shades are the delicate embodiment of daydreams”. Each strap comes with an 18K 5N pink gold pin buckle. The case and dial are collectively adorned with 92 diamonds, totalling approximately 1.10 carats.
Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase – closing remarks
The Vacheron Constantin Égérie collection offers a distinct and graceful design characterised by asymmetry and flowing lines, capturing a modern femininity in a serious timepiece. The new addition of the moon phase seamlessly blends the sensibilities of Yin with Vacheron Constantin in an enchanting whole that’s both a visual and horological delight.
Further reading
https://www.vacheron-constantin.com/
Technical specifications
- Model: Vacheron Constantin Égérie moon phase
- Reference: 8005F/000R-H030
- Case: 18k 5N pink gold, diameter 37 mm, height 11.08 mm, sapphire crystal to front, exhibition case back.
- Functions: hours, minutes, centre seconds, moon phases
- Movement: Manufacture calibre 1088 L, hand-wound movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz), 26 jewels, power reserve approximately 40 hours, 164 components
- Strap: delivered with three self-interchangeable straps: Lilac Mississippiensis alligator leather, powder pink grained calfskin leather, and night blue satin-effect calfskin leather. Each strap is equipped with an 18K 5N pink gold pin buckle
- Price: £41,400 (RRP as of 11.5.2024)
- Limited Edition: 100 pieces individually numbered and engraved