Vacheron Constantin Presents the Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac “Year of the Snake”
For over a decade, Vacheron Constantin has charmed collectors with annual releases honouring the Chinese Zodiac, adding to its revered Métiers d’Art series. This year, the Swiss maison unveils “The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Snake” edition, a refined tribute to the sixth sign in the zodiac, coinciding with the Chinese New Year beginning on January 29, 2025.
Available in either 18k pink gold or platinum, this year’s model is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s profound expertise in metiers d’art, combining intricate hand-engraving and enamelwork to depict a cobra at the heart of the dial.
First Impressions
With each Métiers d’Art release, Vacheron Constantin brings forth a highly artistic, niche offering, appealing to enthusiasts of rare horological craftsmanship. This Zodiac series is notably more accessible than their grand complications like the Wind God and Thunder God repeater pair, yet each piece continues to showcase the brand’s technical prowess and design ingenuity.
While the allure of a zodiac-inspired timepiece is undeniable, the choice of the snake may not appeal universally compared to more celebrated symbols like the dragon. However, the watch’s unique artisanal elements and in-house calibre make it an object of admiration for collectors who appreciate refined, thematic designs.
The King of Serpents on Display
Similar in case design to previous Zodiac models, the Year of the Snake edition measures 40 mm in diameter and 12.72 mm in height. Housed within this 18k gold or platinum case is the Calibre 2460 G4, an in-house automatic movement featuring Vacheron Constantin’s distinctive window display.
The absence of traditional hands allows for a full visual display on the dial, with hours and minutes indicated through apertures at 11 and 1 o’clock, and the day and date at 7 and 5 o’clock, respectively. This ingenious design clears the way for the dial’s true centrepiece: a meticulously engraved and painted cobra, crafted in solid gold and poised on a bed of rocks. It takes three days to complete this detailed, textural work, adding depth and life to the dial.
The cobra sits against a backdrop of grand feu enamel, with a sky that shades from light to dark blue, depicting time and transition. The foliage around the cobra is rendered in flux-coated miniature enamel, with each hue fired individually to achieve optimal vibrancy and precision.
Movement Details
Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the Calibre 2460 G4 is a hallmark of Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to mechanical excellence. This movement, certified with the Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève), includes an open-worked 22k gold rotor, engraved with Vacheron Constantin’s signature Maltese cross. Offering a power reserve of 40 hours and operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), it ensures reliable performance and accuracy, meeting the maison’s rigorous standards.
Specifications and Availability
The Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art “Year of the Snake” edition is available in two references:
- Pink Gold: Ref. 86073/000R-H034
- Platinum: Ref. 86073/000P-H033
Dimensions
- Diameter: 40 mm
- Height: 12.72 mm
Materials
- Case: 18k pink gold or platinum
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Water Resistance: 30 metres
Movement
- Calibre: 2460 G4
- Functions: Hours, minutes, day of week, and date
- Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour)
- Winding: Automatic
- Power Reserve: 40 hours
Strap
- Material: Alligator leather in brown or blue, with a folding clasp
Each reference is limited to just 25 pieces, making this edition a collector’s item in every sense. Available now at Vacheron Constantin boutiques and select retailers, this exclusive release stands as a tribute to the artistry and heritage that defines Vacheron Constantin.
For further details, visit www.vacheron-constantin.com.
