A 270 Year Journey Of Vacheron Constantin Captured In Three Models Of The Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin
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As Vacheron Constantin celebrates 270 years of uninterrupted watchmaking, the Maison turns to one of its most emblematic expressions of classical Haute Horlogerie: the perpetual calendar. This anniversary year sees the debut of three new interpretations of the Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin, each one paying tribute to Geneva’s centuries-old watchmaking heritage while embracing a contemporary vision set within a remarkably elegant 36.5 mm by 8.43 mm case. Two of these references in 18K 5N pink gold and 18K white gold mark the first time non-gem-set Traditionnelle watches have appeared in this size, while a third version in white gold introduces a refined diamond-set option. All three models balance high technical content with timeless aesthetic purity, once again underscoring why Vacheron Constantin remains a benchmark of horological excellence.
A contemporary heir to 18th-century Haute Horlogerie
At the heart of the Traditionnelle collection lies the spirit of eighteenth-century high watchmaking a philosophy that has guided Vacheron Constantin since 1755. The new models continue this lineage with design codes rooted firmly in classical beauty: a stepped round case, fluted caseback, straight-sided lugs and a slender bezel. The dials follow the same discipline, highlighting balance, proportion and legibility through faceted Dauphine hands, applied baton hour markers, and a traditional railway minute track that frames the composition.
The perpetual calendar itself occupies an essential place in the Maison’s history. Vacheron Constantin created its first perpetual calendar observatory watch in 1884, a piece now preserved in the brand’s private collection. The complication remains one of watchmaking’s most sophisticated achievements, automatically accounting for leap years and the irregular rhythm of the Gregorian calendar a feat that requires no manual correction until the year 2100. With these latest additions, the Maison continues its tradition of uniting mechanical intelligence with understated poise.
Calibre 1120 QP: Sought-after ultra-thin masterpiece
Driving all three models is the legendary Manufacture Calibre 1120 QP, a self-winding ultra-thin movement that embodies Vacheron Constantin’s mastery of both perpetual calendars and fine, slim constructions. Since the 1930s, the Maison has set multiple records for ultra-thin watchmaking, and this calibre continues that heritage with a profile measuring just 4.05 mm thick.
Comprising 276 components, Calibre 1120 QP powers a complete display: day of the week, date, 48-month indication with leap year function, as well as moon phase and age of the moon, alongside central hours and minutes. Its construction requires achieving the delicate equilibrium between ultra-fine components and long-term robustness one of the greatest challenges in Haute Horlogerie.
True to Vacheron Constantin tradition, the movement is meticulously finished. The mainplate is circular-grained, hidden beneath the dial yet treated with the same care as visible components. Through the sapphire crystal caseback, one discovers bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, hand-bevelled angles, circular satin-finished sinks for jewels and screws, and polished gear teeth. The openworked oscillating weight in 22K gold bears the Maltese cross a signature of the Maison and a reminder of its technical and decorative artistry.
Three expressions of refined tradition
The pink gold version emphasises warmth and tonal harmony. Its 18K 5N case sets the tone for matching faceted Dauphine hands and applied baton-style hour markers, all set against a silver-toned opaline dial designed for crisp symmetry. The triple registers displaying day, date and month mirror the rounded form of the moon phase and age-of-the-moon indicator at 6 o’clock. A deep blue moonphase background introduces a subtle contrast, echoed by the dark blue alligator strap with tone-on-tone stitching. This model joins the collection as one of the first non-gem-set Traditionnelle references to be presented in the new 36.5 mm case.
The second non-gem-set model appears in 18K white gold and takes a more nuanced approach to classical colours. The hands and applied hour markers are crafted in 18K 5N pink gold, creating a gentle interplay of metal tones on the silver opaline dial. The moonphase disc is rendered in a lighter blue, giving this reference a slightly more contemporary expression. The light brown alligator strap introduces a fresh shade to the Traditionnelle palette while harmonising with the model’s refined, understated mood.
The third model brings an elevated brilliance to the series through a diamond-set configuration in 18K white gold. Grain-set diamonds illuminate the bezel, the tops of the lugs and the crown, adding a delicate sparkle that complements rather than overwhelms the minimalist dial. The hands and markers match the cool tone of the case, while the dark blue moonphase disc pairs seamlessly with the dark blue alligator strap. This version preserves every classical aesthetic code while offering a more glamorous interpretation of the Traditionnelle philosophy.
A harmonious balance of past and present
The Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin in 36.5 mm demonstrates how Vacheron Constantin continues to honour traditional Haute Horlogerie while expressing it through contemporary proportions and refined design. Inspired by the dimensions of the iconic Reference 43031 a model released during the quartz crisis and universally admired for reaffirming the relevance of mechanical watchmaking the new trio carries forward the same legacy of resilience, elegance and technical sophistication.
As the Maison celebrates 270 years, these three new models stand as eloquent symbols of Vacheron Constantin’s ability to balance technical mastery with timeless beauty. They are watches that respect the past, embrace the present and quietly point toward the enduring future of classical watchmaking.
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