Les Cabinotiers is a division solely dedicated to the creation of extraordinary one-of-a-kind timepieces in the Vacheron Constantin universe. This dates back to the 18th century when master watchmakers – known as cabinotiers – worked in cramped workshops, called cabinets, located on the top floors of Geneva’s buildings that were bathed in natural light for a large part of the day. Inspired by astronomy, mechanical engineering and the arts in the Age of Enlightenment, it was in the hands of these gifted artisans and watchmakers where bespoke timepieces were created – mostly commissions by dignitaries of European courts to convey wealth and social standing.
While Vacheron Constantin has created custom timepieces throughout its history – American banker Henry Graves Jr and King Farouk of Egypt were known to be avid collectors of unique pieces created by the maison, it wasn’t until 2006 when its very own division of Les Cabinotiers was established.
With an aim to revive the great watchmaking spirit of 18th-century Geneva, the manufacture continues the tradition of offering its most affluent clients an opportunity to create and own made-to-measure timekeepers. Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Style & Heritage director, elaborates: “We have clients who want exclusivity in a watch that no one else on the planet has. We’re talking about customised timepieces which are considerable in value, so this is definitely not a client’s first watch purchase. Our clientele typically has good knowledge of Vacheron Constantin watches and they want to invest in a timepiece that is closest to their dreams.”
This story is from the Feb 2020 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Feb 2020 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Power To The People
Boucheron creative director Claire Choisne's latest high-jewellery creations are stylish statements of authority and achievement.
Walking into the Blue
Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia. Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia.
IN THE FLOW
For ANDRÉ FU, travel isn't so much a means of inspiration as it is a way to detach from everyday life to approach his work from fresh perspectives.
CHIC VOLUMES
Impractically oversized but utterly beautiful tomes featuring an eclectic subject, coffee table books serve to kick-start conversations in addition to being subtle avenues of sophisticated self-expression. Here are six titles to consider having on your living room table.
VICTOR OVER TIME
35 years after they broke convention as renegade art students, Phillip Lim catches up with eminent artist SUZANN VICTOR to reminisce about past escapades and how far the artist has come.
Circle of Friends
A Singapore family that has set up a second home in remote Kenya shares their connection with the local communities with guests of their lodge.
VIVE LA WEAVE
Chanel's latest high jewellery collection celebrates the innovation that put her squarely in the pantheon of legendary fashion designers.
VIEW BEYOND THE RACES
For Richard Mille, life in the fast lane is more than just performance-driven machines, it's a profound appreciation for excellence in various forms.
OFF TO THE FAIR
Watch clients are increasingly dropping into Watches and Wonders, a trade fair meant for retailers and media personnel. Here's why.
STEP LIVELY
In the original design of Hermès' Mon Premier Galop shawl by Chinese artist Tong Ren, a horse with an awkward yet happy gait is depicted in simple lines, colour blocks, and decorative-trimming inspired by traditional basketry.