Vacheron Constantin’s tribute to Chinese culture with limited-edition Seawater Cliff watches

Vacheron Constantin has a long and storied record in the art of watchmaking, masterfully incorporating the Métiers d’Arts that escort the creation of some of the finest timepieces in the world.

As the oldest continually operating Swiss watch brand, Vacheron Constantin is deeply committed to preserving and revitalizing traditional arts.

Their dedication to craftsmanship is exemplified in their latest collection, which pays tribute to the ancient Chinese “Seawater Cliff” motif.

This collection, unveiled in a limited edition, is a stunning homage to the decorative symbols that emerged during the Ming and Qing dynasties in the 14th century.

A Collaboration Rooted in History

For this collection, Vacheron Constantin collaborated with Mr. Song, the former Associate Research Librarian of the Palace Museum in Beijing’s Forbidden City.

Together, they created two distinct interpretations of the legendary Seawater Cliff motif, a design officially named under Emperor Wanli (1573-1620) and reserved exclusively for the Imperial family.

This motif, depicting tides washing against cliffs, symbolizes strength, stability, resilience, and resistance to change—qualities deeply revered in Chinese culture. Historically, the motif adorned the silk ceremonial dragon robes worn by the Imperial family, symbolizing great success.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Unique Designs

Each watch in the collection is crafted in 18-karat white gold or 18-karat rose gold, featuring slight variations in dial coloration. Measuring 38mm in diameter, these watches are powered by Vacheron Constantin’s Caliber 2460 mechanical movement, offering a 40-hour power reserve.

The transparent sapphire case back reveals a finely engraved 22-karat gold rotor, echoing the waves and tides of the Seawater Cliff motif.

The Métiers d’Arts Eternal Flow version showcases the intricate cloisonné enamel and engraving techniques. The artisan first lays 220 thin gold wires to form the Seawater Cliff motif, a process that takes over 50 hours of meticulous craftsmanship.

The space between the wires is then filled with enamel, with more than 70 additional hours dedicated to painting and firing the layers to achieve the desired depth and richness of color.

The enamel work, with hues of blues, greens, oranges, golds, and purples, recalls the traditional Chinese celebratory colors and the cloisonné technique, also known as Jingtai Blue, pays homage to Emperor Jingtai of the Ming Dynasty.

The Tribute to Traditional Symbols Moonlight Slivers watch features Grand Feu enameling, engraving, and gem setting.

The dial, set against a rich blue enamel background, depicts the mountain wall in monochrome colors—silver hues for the white gold version and golden tones for the rose gold version.

Hollowed waves, raised diamond-set sections, and meticulously handset brilliant-cut diamonds create a dazzling representation of the seas crashing against the mountains. Each watch in this series is limited to just 15 pieces, making them truly exclusive.

A Legacy of Cultural Reverence

Vacheron Constantin’s foray into the ancient Chinese arts is part of a broader tradition of honoring the arts of various civilizations. The brand has consistently excelled in Métiers d’Arts, working with renowned museums like The MET and The Louvre to recreate masterpieces on the wrist.

The Seawater Cliff motif, historically sewn into the dragon robes of the Imperial family, continues to inspire and captivate, now beautifully embodied in these exquisite timepieces.

This collection not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of ancient China but also reinforces Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to preserving and elevating traditional craftsmanship in contemporary watchmaking.