Vacheron Constantin: Traditionnelle Chrono QP

Vacheron Constantin is revisiting one of its most iconic models: the Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar… Equipped with the new Manufacture Caliber 1142 QP, this timepiece perpetuates the tradition of excellence cultivated by the finest Geneva watchmakers.

The new Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar is the ultimate expression of this successful synergy. The collection’s distinctive design codes are reflected in each and every detail: the stepped case in platinum with a distinctive fluted pattern on the back, the dauphine-style hands and the railway-type minute track. A white tachymeter scale surrounding the dial accentuates the technical nature of the watch.

Exemplifying a concern for legibility, the dial features various shades of grey with finishes that differ according to the functions, reflecting the layout of 1940s Vacheron Constantin chronographs. Standing out against a slate-coloured opaline base, the small seconds and chronograph minute counters are distinguished by a circular-brushed ring with snailed centre. The 22K white gold moon disc, positioned in the centre of the date counter with a dark grey rim, it provides a symbolic depiction of a moon face that is alternately smiling or melancholy, depending on the path of the Earth’s satellite.

This sophisticated aesthetic approach is matched by the technical evolution embodied in the movement of the Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar. Caliber 1142 QP, a state-of-the-art movement entirely designed and developed within the Manufacture, replaces the previous 1141 QP. The new movement drives the perpetual calendar functions – with indications of the date, days, months, leap years and moon phases – as well as the chronograph functions with a direct-drive seconds hands and 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, positioned opposite the small seconds at 9 o’clock. This newcomer to the Traditionnelle collection will thus be able to keep track of all the vagaries of the calendar without any need for adjustments until March 1st 2100.

With the development of this new caliber, the Vacheron Constantin watchmakers and developers have been keenly attentive to the energy constraints relating to the chronograph functions, in order to minimise their impact on the 48-hour power reserve. The oscillation frequency of the balance has also been raised from 2.5 to 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations/hour) so as to increase reliability and shock resistance. Like all Vacheron Constantin movements, this new caliber visible through the transparent sapphire crystal caseback was developed and designed to meet the stringent Hallmark of Geneva criteria. This emblem of Geneva’s watchmaking excellence applies both to the caliber itself and to the finishing of the watch as a whole, governed by demanding norms that make it one of the most rigorous and renowned watch industry certifications.

The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar is fitted with a hand- stitched Mississippiensis alligator leather strap secured by a 950 platinum folding clasp.