Comments:
Yes, first time in a long while that a VC release really piques my interest.
Best, Emmanuel
These Vacheron Constantin Perpetual Calendars really are quite beautiful except for the month sub dial.
But the one really big issue I have with this watch is its name "Vacheron Constantin Traditional Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin" as I hate to have to say this but in no way can a 8.3mm watch be classed as an Ultra Thin watch not now or ever IMHO. Vacheron is not alone in doing this and just like for the other manufacturers I will call it out every time it is done. It is bad enough when done by young companies that simply don't know any better but when maisons with a great history that includes real Ultra Thin watches engage in what I consider to be nothing more than cheap marketing it truly saddens me. Maybe a lot of today's watch buyers are actually unaware as to what an Ultra Thin watch is so they let it slide but I really find it hard to believe I am the only one that thinks this way. Who knows maybe it is just me? The one good thing about this kind of release is it spurs me on to do my write up on the truth about Ultra Thin watches which hopefully will come before Christmas.
Marc
Does it make a difference what complication is included when bearing the ultra thin moniker?
E.g., a time only ultra thin should of course be slimmer than a perpetual calendar.
Now that is a very interesting question and could lead to a really interesting discussion.
But for me and for now an Extra Thin or Ultra Thin watch is rooted in being a dress watch and as such should IMHO be a time only watch preferably only a two hand watch although it could also be a three handed watch. Although there is no definitive classification of what is or isn't an Ultra Thin/Extra Thin watch there are some basic definitions that the majority seem to agree on as to the maximum size to be considered even an Extra Thin watch plus there are examples of truly Extra Thin/Ultra Thin watches that do indeed have various complications whilst still being in this size spectrum. But I will try to address this and modern day definitions of Ultra Thin/Extra Thin watches in my coming soon post.
Marc
Marc
Looking forward to your post. I do agree that at some thickness, the term Ultra Thin becomes meaningless regardless of the complications.
Really nice, but a curious choice of size, no?
Platinum would have been a nice option too.
Agreed on platinum.
As for the size, well, it's just 0,5 mm more than the original ref. 43031 and I think the idea was to be faithful to it.
This piece could almost belong to the "Historiques" line.
Best, Emmanuel
Ha, glad you said it
Historiques line is this watch’s place, at least in spirit. Price aside, I like it’s size and clean presentation…and that gorgeous calibre! Inspires me to wear the BP QP today ;-)
Yes, there's definitely a lot to love about these new releases.
Enjoy your BP QP !
Best, Emmanuel
Amazing. Wonderful. I’m so happy for VC. It’s about time they recover their rightful place at the top of the heap. 👏👌🍾
I still love Vacheron but for me I am looking at a vintage for a true Ultra Thin beauty.
Marc
Like you, this release really piques my interest and
gives me the feeling that VC is reconnecting with its roots here.
Best, Emmanuel
Best, Emmanuel
Nice size. But never a fan of their month indicator. This one also does not seem to move any horological needle and at 100k, more people will be looking at old pieces for value.
I personally like the 48 months subdial which invites to a broader view on time.
Not just the current year, but a 4-year cycle.
And I find it striking that nobody seems to complain when it's featured on an Overseas (exact same movement).
Best, Emmanuel
The movement is fantastic but...
In a weird way the Frederique Constant Manufacture PC comes to mind and that's around USD10k if one really need a PC.
For me, what comes to mind is the ref. 43031 and I like this homage very much.
These new releases could almost belong to the "Historiques" collection, imo.
Best, Emmanuel
That is a charming watch!
To be honest I lost interest in PC with age and worsening eyesight.