Part of the Vacheron Constantin Mtiers d'Art collection, this Mcaniques Graves* is a time-only piece that showcases the incredible engraving skill of the master engraver. Both the dial and movement of piece feature engraving, allowing the wearer to lose themselves in the intricate complexity of the patterns.

The Vacheron Constantin Mtiers d'Art collection showcases some of the finest artistic craft, encompassing areas such as engraving, guilloch work, enamelling, and gem-setting, all while maintaining the watch's technical excellence. Part of this small series, this particular Mcaniques Graves was produced in 2015, and was first announced at the SIHH.

A time-only watch, the highlight of this piece is undoubtedly the ornate acanthus leaves, a Baroque-style motif, repeated on both the mainplate that forms the dial as well as the bridges of the movement. The pattern dates back to classical antiquity, and was used in Greek, Roman, and Byzantine architecture as ornamental decoration for columns and walls. Signifying victory and glory, it has been widely used throughout the years, and the dial of this Mcaniques Graves uses it as an ornamental device to beautify the watch and demonstrate the master engraver's skill.

The engraved mainplate, that stands in for the dial, is crafted over 240 hours. It is a labour-intensive process that results in incredible detail, whether in the consistent engraving of the leaves or clous de paris-style pattern that is used to create the buds on the plants. The engraving, that spans almost the entire face, is only interrupted to reveal some of the mechanics of the calibre the wearer can see the gears turning when setting the time and winding the manual calibre. A deep grey chapter of minutes runs around the watch face. The leaf-style hands are rendered in white gold.

The 39mm case is forged from platinum and has a three-part construction to it, all evenly high-polished. The concave bezel rises up to the crystal while on the movement-side, a bezel runs around the crystal of the display caseback with engravings detailing the brand mark, serial number as well as the precious metal hallmarks. The well-proportioned crown is signed, while the business of winding it is a silent operation, testament to the refinement of the movement.

It is powered by the calibre 4400/1, a manual-wind movement, that is also shared with Vacheron Constantin's Patrimony Traditionelle. It has a total thickness of just 2.8mm, while the engravings are just 0.20mm deep - a delicate operation that requires considerable skill.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Vacheron Constantin Mtiers dArt Mcaniques Graves will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Vacheron Constantin Mtiers dArt Mcaniques Graves is in excellent condition, showing virtually no signs of wear. The dial, hands and movement also show no signs of imperfection. The engravings on the reverse side of the case are perfectly crisp and well defined. The watch comes with its original strap and buckle, along with the box, papers and accessories.

Warranty

The watch comes with a lifetime guarantee of authenticity from A Collected Man as well as the remaining duration of the manufacturer warranty from Vacheron Constantin.