Journey Through Time: Vacheron Constantin’s Lady Exhibition
Since the mid-20th century, both Haute Couture and High Watchmaking have followed strict codes, creating disciplined yet imaginative realms of style. Vacheron Constantin and Haute Couture share a commitment to impeccable quality, creativity, and artisanal craftsmanship, especially in the feminine universe.
The Heritage Collection, starting in 1815, showcases Vacheron Constantin’s continuous attention to women’s needs, blending functionality and elegance. The curated exhibition illustrates two centuries of feminine watchmaking for various occasions, emphasizing Maison’s enduring creativity and adaptability.
Gala
Selected watches exhibit delicate setting techniques, showcasing a variety of extravagant shapes that became aesthetic signatures of the Maison, particularly during the disruptive and highly creative 1970s. Examples include a 1927 platinum oval brooch watch with black champlevé enamel, brilliant-cut diamonds, baguette diamonds, and a 1971 white gold diamond-shaped ladies’ wristwatch.
Teatime
The narrative touches on the historical use of watches as pendants before the widespread adoption of wristwatches in the early 20th century. Notable pieces include a 1902 Art Nouveau round pendant watch in yellow gold and a 1910 platinum and gold pendant watch with antique-cut diamonds.
Lunch
During the 1920s, Vacheron Constantin embraced the Art Deco trend, structuring and giving specific architecture to its creations. Secret watches became fashionable, with a 1946 rose gold secret wristwatch and a 1919 yellow gold diamond-shaped wristwatch being highlighted.
Cocktail
The challenges faced by the first wristwatch calibers in terms of shocks, humidity, and temperature changes led to innovations in the 20th century. The narrative mentions the introduction of a small baguette caliber in 1915, highlighting a 1929 rectangular platinum “Sporty” ladies’ wristwatch and a 1971 secret wristwatch in yellow gold. 
Accessories
The collaboration with Ferdinand Verger, the exclusive agent of Vacheron Constantin in France from 1879 to 1938, played a significant role. The Maison created numerous watch models, including curtain watches and chatelaine-type brooch watches. Examples include a 1930 surprise pocket watch in yellow gold with a jade cabochon and a retractable rectangular pocket watch from the same period.
The overall narrative underscores Vacheron Constantin’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, design evolution, and its ability to adapt to the changing tastes and needs of women over the course of two centuries.
The exhibition will be on view at the Vacheron Constantin Boutique Lisboa until January 2nd.
