Drawing on the similarities between haute horlogerie and haute couture, the Égérie epitomises the two-fold inspiration of artisanal workmanship and painstaking design.
Seventeen years ago, Vacheron Constantin released its last women’s collection, characterised by a classic tonneau-shaped case. It was the first iteration of the Égérie, which means “muse”. Now at the dawn of a new decade, the long-standing Swiss watch manufacturer is revisiting the collection dedicated to women with a female-led design team.
Don’t mistake this collection as an extension of its predecessor, however – the all-new Égérie boasts a birth story of its own.
Drawing on the similarities between haute horlogerie and haute couture, the Égérie epitomises the two-fold inspiration of artisanal workmanship and painstaking design. The resulting collection is unmistakably feminine and sophisticated, reflecting the inspiring, independent and charismatic qualities in women today.
Shared traits
All five models in the line pay homage to the Manufacturer’s aesthetic codes with off-centre displays that date back to the 19th century, featuring concentric circles interlinked with either a date or moon phase display between 1 and 2 o’clock – above which the crown is boldly set.
Another defining feature is the pleated patterns on the centre dial and outer ring, developed in-house using a historical “tapestry” technique. For a textured effect, the Manufacturer’s master craftsmen had to manually work a 1904 machine to create the miniature drape motifs.
The stylised Arabic numerals on the dial are made from white or rose gold, emulating fine embroidery often incorporated in couture designs. Further highlighting its couture references are the leaf-style hour and minute hands that evoke the sewing needles used in prestigious ateliers.
Individual models
The Égérie Self-Winding is offered in two variants: 18K 5N rose gold or steel. It features a 35mm pebble-shaped case crowned with a slim bezel embedded with 58 diamonds.
For fans of the romantic moonphase, the Égérie Moonphase presents itself in a 37mm case enclosing a starry dial orbited by 36 diamonds. The moonphase variant is also available in 18K 5N rose gold or steel, with a diamond-set bezel.
Lastly, the Égérie Moon Phase Diamond-pave dial completes the five models available at launch. Featuring a 37mm case in 18k white gold and encrusted with 292 diamonds, this high jewellery model embodies true Vacheron Constantin glamour with a dazzling dial showered with another 510 sparkling diamonds.
All models will come with interchangeable straps for versatility. The 18k pink gold Self-Winding and Moon Phase models isaccompanied by three interchangeable leather straps, whilst their steel counterparts come with a polished metal bracelet to match. In contrast, the Égérie Moon Phase Diamond-pave model offers two night blue straps – in leather or satin – each secured by a gemset pin buckle.
Take a closer look at the five models below.
Égérie Self-Winding in 18k pink gold with pink leather strap
Égérie Self-Winding in steel
Égérie Moonphase in 18K 5N pink gold and dark blue leather strap
Égérie Moonphase in stainless steel
Égérie Moon Phase
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The Vacheron Constantin Égérie collection is available at selected boutiques and authorised retailers, priced from RM87,000.
For more information, log on to the official website here.
Photos: Vacheron Constantin
