Horological musings: Vacheron Constantin Égérie

Vacheron Constantin dazzles with two new diamond-set additions to its latest collection dedicated to women

Watches & Jewellery 5 Aug 2021

As one of the world’s oldest watch manufactures, Vacheron Constantin has created countless elegant and accomplished timepieces for women since the early 19th century. And, like its men’s watches, these have morphed throughout time to adapt to tastes and technical demands of the era, all while staying true to the maison’s refined and innovative approach to both style and timekeeping.

With many models holding a timeless appeal that has endured throughout the decades, it’s special when an entirely new design is introduced into its ranks. When the Égérie was first launched in 2003 it came in the form of a curvaceous, tonneau-shaped case, finished with bold Arabic numerals. Last year saw the line revived with a completely overhauled look that retains the same feminine spirit, but with a modern new feel. Now the family has been further enhanced with the addition of a duo of dazzling diamond-set timepieces, presented in 18ct white gold and 18ct pink gold.

And the Égérie is more than worth the wait. Its name translates as ‘muse’, here drawing its inspiration from the closely intertwined worlds of haute horlogerie and haute couture. The latter’s influence particularly shines through in the delicate curves and overlapping elements on the dial, beautifully weaving together like the fine lace on a handmade gown.

The watch is the epitome of Vacheron Constantin’s ‘classic with a twist’ ethos. At its heart it’s the quintessential jewellery watch; sophisticated, glamourous and show-stopping. Look closer and the maison’s ingenuity and signature touches continue to reveal themselves in the finer details.

The skillful and balanced composition draws the eye from the centre out towards a smaller circle at 2 o’clock to a date indication subtly incorporated into this distinctive asymmetrical display. This delicate sense of playfulness and whimsy continues to the large, stylised Arabic numerals and offset crown positioned between 1 and 2 o’clock, topped with a rose-cut diamond.

The timepiece is in equal parts a showcase of the company’s gem-setting expertise as its watchmaking prowess. The new contemporary round shape is accentuated by 303 diamonds that wind their way across the slender bezel and flanks and down to the lugs and even inter-lugs of the case. These are combined with a further 574 diamonds that fully adorn the dial to spectacular effect.

Staying true to its fashion roots, the Égérie can also be effortlessly accessorised to suit the occasion. This is thanks to its clever interchangeable strap system, where the strap can be easily clipped to the case without the use of tools. Along with a dressier satin option comes a satin-effect leather strap, in deep night blue for the white-gold model, and candied chestnut for the pink gold.

With the style comes serious watchmaking substance. The in-house, self-winding calibre 1088 delivers a 40-hour power reserve, alongside Vacheron Constantin’s precise and reliable timekeeping. Its handcrafted finishing can be seen through the sapphire-crystal caseback, from the intricately applied Côtes de Genève motif to the oscillating weight inspired by the shape of the maison’s signature Maltese cross. From front to back, the Égérie is a watch worthy of the very chicest of runways.

£54,000; vacheron-constantin.com