Aesthetic purity matching mechanical complexity. Equipped with an original and useful double complication, revealed by two retrograde-type displays, the Patrimony retrograde day-date is a perfect example of technical expertise devoted to a pure aesthetic. Or how mechanical complexity gives way to aesthetic moderation. The caseback is equipped with a sapphire crystal providing a chance to admire the self-winding 2460 R31 R movement.
The Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date bears the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva. The present watch, with pink gold case and slate grey dial, was launched at Watches & Wonders 2014.
Movement
Automatic mechanical movement designed, developed and produced by the Vacheron Constantin manufacture with hour, minute and retrograde date and day functions.
This double-complication calibre is one of the brand’s 11½ lignes (25.6 mm) automatic movements, which made their appearance in 2005 during the manufacture’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The latest to date and beating at a rate of 28,800 vibrations an hour, the 2460R31R7 has a power reserve of more than 40 hours and is distinguished by the meticulous chamfering work on the Côtes de Genève-decorated bridges and the circular-graining of the plate. An innovative ceramic ball-bearing system drives its 22K gold guilloché rotor.
Meeting its twelve stringent criteria, the 2460R31R7 is stamped with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève. This very exclusive hallmark is recognised as a symbol of horological perfection as well as a indication of provenance. Over and above the stipulated technical and aesthetic constraints, it symbolises a true philosophy of horological workmanship, with no concession made either to the quality of the components or to any part of the movement. The Poinçon de Genève, therefore, is related to a guarantee of longer life for the movement.
