The company`s director, Christian Selmoni, stated: “We have created a masterpiece, truly in miniature dimensions. The masterful placement of such a number of components in a wristwatch has been a significant challenge. In fact, the result should have been a rather heavy construction in terms of size. Achieving a design that is as compact and elegant as possible was our challenge in this extensive research and technological innovation.”
On the dial, every indication is clearly legible, which is no easy feat in a watch with so many functions. To achieve this, the layout had to be reinvented as we know it in even the most expensive watches. However, the iconic company Vacheron Constantin possesses 270 years of knowledge and experience, making the creation of complex mechanisms and pioneering chronographs second nature to them. After all, just last year, they unveiled the double-faced pocket watch, Berkley Grand Complication, featuring countless functions and technological innovations.
On the front dial of the Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication, the absence of traditional decoration creates a distinctly modern aesthetic. This unique watch was presented at the Watches and Wonders fair in Switzerland, where it astonished visitors and prompted reflection among significant competitors of Vacheron in the luxury watchmaking sector. The Les Cabinotiers Solaria not only breaks Vacheron Constantin`s records but also sets new benchmarks for originality among other leading brands. For instance, the back of the watch features a depiction of the "celestial dome" and includes two overlapping sapphire surfaces. In essence, it provides a miniature view of the movement and representation of constellations in real time!
It can be somewhat difficult to grasp just how exciting this particular model is, as the impressive decorative elements found in other cases are absent here. However, what needs to be understood—especially by those who are interested, even if they cannot own such a significant watch—is that the Solaria Ultra Grand Complication belongs to the category of extraordinary models and serves as a testament to how far the art of watchmaking can go to create such a technological achievement, all while maintaining a harmonious aesthetic. This aesthetic demands that the finishing of the components requires meticulous attention to detail, particularly due to the extreme miniaturisation of the entire mechanism. Moreover, its fascinating design architecture includes nine types of finishing and handcrafted satin polishing for all elements.
This particular model has a diameter of 45 mm and a height of 14.99 mm. It is undoubtedly a work of art and engineering. The black dial and metallic tones create an incredibly attractive appearance. The complexity of its construction leaves competitors—many of whom are significant—speechless, while Business Insider ranks it at the top of modern watchmaking.
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