For centuries, the concept of time has been a cornerstone of human civilization, influencing our perception of the world and our place within it. The Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin series is a testament to this notion, exploring the multifaceted nature of time through a harmonious blend of artistic craftsmanship and watchmaking expertise. This exquisite collection of timepieces embodies the cyclical aspect of time as reflected in the succession of the seasons and the sacred animals that symbolize them in traditional Asian culture.
Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin is the culmination of Vacheron Constantin’s fascination with the concept of time and its various cultural interpretations. The series delves into the realm of cyclical time, where the alternation of seasons and lunar cycles serve as a reminder of the eternal nature of time. This theme is beautifully captured through the use of wood marquetry, a decorative art form that requires immense skill and patience. The artisan’s handiwork is evident in the intricate designs depicting the Azure Dragon, Vermilion Bird, White Tiger and Black Tortoise – the sacred animals that represent the four seasons in Asian culture.
The wood marquetry technique used in the Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin series is a marvel of craftsmanship, involving the use of over 150 types of wood in a variety of shades. The process of creating a single dial can take up to a month and a half, with some designs requiring more than 200 tiny components from eight to ten different species. The result is a work of art that is both visually stunning and technically impressive.
At the heart of the Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin series is the ultra-thin Caliber 2160, a masterpiece of horological engineering measuring just 5.65 mm thick. This automatic movement beats at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 80 hours. The tourbillon regulator driven by Caliber 2160 is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to watchmaking excellence. The combination of mechanical engineering and decorative arts is a hallmark of the Les Cabinotiers editions, and the Le Temps Divin series is no exception.
The inclusion of a tourbillon in the Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin series may seem counterintuitive, given the intricate nature of the wood inlay designs. However, the cyclical aspect of the tourbillon and the animation it brings to the composition make it an integral part of the overall design. The challenge of integrating this type of regulation into a watch with an exquisitely crafted dial was met with the characteristic care for elegance for which Vacheron Constantin is renowned.
