SIHH 2017, a showcase of many different novelties, hosted some of the most interesting innovations in complications that are the indispensable elements of traditional watchmaking. Vacheron Constantin, who was the first to come to mind when we think of complications, took its place among the brands that marked the exhibition with its unique designs. One of the most notable among these was the Vacheron Constantine Traditionnelle Minute Repeater Tourbillon.
“Recognized as one of the most important complications both in terms of aesthetics and phonetics, the Minute Repeater can play three different tones for three different intervals as he hours, quarter hours and minutes past the quarter hours.”
The new model is powered by the brand’s in-house movement Caliber Ref. 2755 TMR. The hand-wound movement, consisting of 471 parts including 40 jewels, features very innovative and interesting technical specs. The first one is the second hand which is attached to the tourbillion escapement’s cage. The cage, that sports a Maltese Cross figure which is the brand’s symbol, is visible from the port hole at the 6 o’clock position. The beat rate is 2.5Hz which may be considered a bit lower than usual for a modern movement.
The other important feature of the movement is the Minute Repeater module which is as stunning as the rest of the timepiece. Recognized as one of the most important complications both in terms of aesthetics and phonetics, the Minute Repeater can play three different tones for three different intervals at the hours, quarter hours, and minutes past the quarter hours.
Besides the time keeping and minute repeater functions, the movement features a power reserve indicator which can be monitored through the sapphire crystal display caseback.
Just like the rest of the product line, the Caliber Ref. 2755 TMR comes with the Hallmark of Genève certification attesting to the high standards of craftsmanship and precision. The movement bears entirely handcrafted Côtes de Genève decoration and offers a 58-hour power reserve when fully wound.
The model with a 44mm case diameter has two versions, 18K gold, and platinum; both featuring a special dial sporting a handcrafted Guilloche motif which is exclusive to the Boutique Edition timepieces only.
Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Minute Repeater Tourbillon comes on a black alligator strap and sold with a “Music of Time” resonance holder that amplifies the sound of the repeater.
