Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Grand Complication Split-Seconds Chronograph – Tempo

In 2015, with the presentation of the reference 57260, Vacheron Constantin sent a message to the watchmaking industry by stealing the title of the ‘most complicated watch’ from Patek Philippe. Today, Vacheron Constantin introduces its most complicated wristwatch to date, officially fitted with 24 complications – a response to Patek’s GrandMaster Chime with 20 complications? Of course, it would be hard to state that one watch is better or more complex than the other; one complication does not necessarily equal another complication, and to be honest, it does not really matter… But still, the introduction of such a complex watch marks an exciting moment in watchmaking. 

The creation of such complex timepieces, with multiple functions and displays, is always an event in itself and an authentic challenge that only a very exclusive group of brands is capable of undertaking. The Vacheron Constantin Grand Complication Split-Seconds Chronograph – Tempo is a beast of a watch and packs no fewer than 24 complications, orchestrated by the new in-house calibre 2756, with a total of 1,163 parts. It was developed by the team responsible for the ultra-impressive Reference 57260, members of Vacheron’s “Les Cabinotiers” atelier.

The watch is double-sided, featuring two slate grey dials with sunray and guilloché finishes around the circumference. The front face displays the time, chronograph functions and a perpetual calendar. The back is dedicated to astronomical functions, including indications of solar time, equation of time, sunrise and sunset, day and night duration, as well as the age and phase of the Moon (that requires only one correction every 1,000 years). It is also fitted with a minute repeater. Last, it is regulated by a tourbillon whose cage is shaped like a Maltese Cross, the emblem of the Maison. Running at 18,000vph, its power reserve is of 65 hours (and 40 hours when the chronograph is engaged).

The new calibre 2756 is housed in an impressive 50mm x 21mm that is perfectly symmetrical. Thanks to a removable strap attachment system, the watch is reversible and can be worn on either side, according to the mood of the moment. See the video below to understand this system:

The Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Grand Complication Split-Seconds Chronograph is a unique piece. Price is not communicated and only obtainable “on request”. The watch is presented as part of “La Musique du Temps”; in the frame of their partnership with Abbey Road, Vacheron Constantin has entrusted the iconic London studios with recording the unique sound of this model.

For more information, please visit www.vacheron-constatin.com.