KIH provides an exclusive look into the grand opening of Vacheron Constantin's first-ever boutique in Ginza, Japan, a significant milestone for the brand in a market with deep historical ties. This report details the two-story boutique's elegant design, the heritage exhibition, and the special Tokyo Boutique Edition models. KIH's coverage offers a vivid impression of this long-awaited retail presence.
Believe or not, there has never been one in Japan for such a long time - Vacheron Constantin is one of the oldest brands for Japanese market and the relationship is so tight that they often issued Japan Edition in the past (so did IWC, Patek, etc.... good old days
).
Why no Vacheron Constantin boutique in Japan - it was always a topic among watch lovers in Japan and one big question......unanswered... until now! I asked the same question to Mr. Gouget, now CEO of Vacheron Constantin Japan, and he has been telling me that they have not found the suitable space in the suitable location. But they have, finally.
So, let's take a look at the boutique (opened Dec. 9th) and the special exhibit, as well as Tokyo Boutique Edition models.
Beautiful outside - two-story boutique, on the super main street of Ginza.


The display windows on the street side.



Heritage Exhibition is going on.

Inside - Ground floor.

Nice taste & atmosphere. I would like these on my apartment walls, too!



Of course..... I would want one at home
There is also Customer Service corner, where a watchmaker can do simple adjustment, etc. on the spot.


On the wall.....

The display case of the current line-up.







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And, Heritage Collection on the floor.....
2005 "Tour de L'ille" double face men's wrist watch. 250th Anniversary model. Minute repeater, striking mechanism, torque display, perpetual calendar, moonphase, tourbillon, power reserve, second time zone, equation of time, sun rise/ sun set indication, sky chart..... everything one can think of... Wow.

1955 Pocket watch with perpetual calendar, moonphase.

1949 Pocket watch with world time.

... and going up to the second floor and the exhibition continues.....

1755 First known pocket watch created by the founder of the manufacture....

1822 Pocket Watch

1835 Pocket Watch, with engraving and guilloche.

1846 Pocket Watch with quarter repeater.

1920 Pocket Watch, with guilloche, engraved, and champleve enamel decoration.

1910 Pocket Watch, hunter case, engraving.

1854 Pocket Watch, hunter case, engraved.

1887 Lady's pendant watch with chain.

1929 Pocket Watch with jumping hours.

1926 Pocket Watch with jumping hours, day and date.

1909 Royal Chronometer Pocket Watch.

1935 Gentlemen's wrist watch, tonneau shaped.

1951 Gentlemen's wristwatch with fan-shaped lugs

1957 Gentlemen's wristwatch, cambered square-shaped, automatic.

1979 "222" Gentlemen's wristwatch.

1972 "Prestige de la France" lady's wristwatch.

1960 Ultra-thin gentlemen's wristwatch.

Wow, what an exhibition. Like having brought Vacheron museum here.
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And, now, relaxing space on the second floor...







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Here are "LIMITED EDITION TOKYO" - Three models.
You will notice... somehow, this market likes black dials (me, too!).
1. TRADITIONNELLE (Ref. 82172)
38mm, Pink Gold case, 7.77mm thick, Cal. 4400AS
LE of 20!


Pay particular attention to the guilloche pattern - surely the creation of this dial involved the members of "Metiers d'Art".

Very subtle, "secret" engraving of "LIMITED EDITION TOKYO" on the top of the watch dial.



Winding feel is a bit heavy, but very smooth.... nice....

Love the size!



2. TRADITIONNELLE 14-DAY TOURBILLON (Ref. 89000) 42mm Pink Gold Case, 12.22mm thick. Cal. 2260
LE of THREE (3) !
336 hours (14 days) power reserve with quad-barrel inside.
Clicking feel of winding is very nice - not heavy at all to hand wind.


Again, look at this guilloche dial done by the craftsman of Metiers d'Art!



Not bad at all 



Beautifully done tourbillon.

Again, "secret" engrave "LIMITED EDITION TOKYO" on the top of the dial.

3. OVERSEAS DUAL TIME (Ref. 47450) 42mm SS case, 12.45mm thick, cal. 1222 SC
Anti-Magnetic, Automatic.

Screw in crown, of course. I was impressed, first, the screw in/out is so smooth that you wouldn't feel when it got unscrewed or being screwed in.... And the winding feel is butterly smooth for hand winding..... Wow, handling is believing. Very, very, well made.

White gold dial, and again, look at this guilloche pattern in the subdials - by Metiers d'Art craftsman.

I was really hooked by this..... Never thought Overseas wold be this nice....

From the case to the bracelet - forms nice curve to fit the wrist.


Overseas Iconic Amerigo Vespucci ship on the case back.




... and less "subtle" LIMITED EDITION TOKYO logo on the power reserve indicator. With Pink Gold second hand... nice.....



Perhaps, one of the best, if not THE best, bracelet out in the market today.


Thank you so much, Ms. Mori, Boutique Manager, and Mr. Gouget, the brand CEO of Vacheron Constantin Japan, and all the boutique staff.

Are these Champagne glasses in front of us?
As always, sorry for my longish report, but I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Best,
Ken
This message has been edited by KIH on 2014-12-15 03:58:14
About the Gevril Tortue GV2 Ladies Polished Stainless Steel White Textured dial - Polished Stainless Steel Ref. 4400
The Fiftysix reference 4400 from Horological Meandering is a notable entry in the brand's contemporary offerings, distinguished by its design which draws inspiration from mid-20th century aesthetics. This particular reference is characterized by its balanced proportions and a focus on everyday wearability, positioning it as an accessible yet refined option within the broader collection. It represents a modern interpretation of classic watchmaking principles, aiming to appeal to a wide range of enthusiasts.
This reference features a stainless steel case, housing a Swiss Quartz movement. The case diameter is 40mm, providing a versatile size suitable for various wrist sizes. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and scratch resistance. Its construction allows for a water resistance of 30 meters, making it suitable for daily wear and incidental exposure to water.
As a quartz-powered timepiece, the Fiftysix reference 4400 offers reliability and convenience, appealing to collectors who prioritize precision and ease of maintenance. It stands as a testament to Horological Meandering's commitment to offering diverse options, from mechanical to quartz, within its product lines. The polished stainless steel strap further enhances its classic appeal, making it a cohesive and understated piece.
Specifications
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Bracelet / Strap:
- Water Resist.
- 30 meters / 100 feet
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Ref. 47450
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time reference 47450 is a notable iteration within the Overseas collection, distinguished by its integrated dual time zone complication. This model offers a practical solution for travelers and those who track multiple time zones, presenting a clean and legible display while maintaining the collection's characteristic design language. It represents a period where Vacheron Constantin expanded the utility of the Overseas line beyond its core time-only and chronograph offerings.
This reference features a stainless steel case measuring 41 mm in diameter, housing an automatic movement. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and scratch resistance. It offers a water resistance of 150 meters, aligning with the collection's sport-luxury positioning. The movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours, offering reliable performance for daily wear.
For collectors, the 47450 is appreciated for its blend of functionality and Vacheron Constantin's finishing. It appeals to those seeking a sophisticated travel watch that avoids overt sportiness while still being robust enough for varied environments. The blue dial variant is particularly sought after, complementing the stainless steel construction and contributing to the model's distinct aesthetic within the broader Overseas family.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 5100
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 41 mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 150m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the CHRONOSWISS Historiques Ref. 1972Prestige
The Chronoswiss Historiques 1972Prestige is a distinctive model within the Historiques collection, characterized by its non-traditional case shape. It represents Chronoswiss's exploration of design beyond conventional round forms, offering a unique aesthetic that appeals to collectors seeking individuality and historical design influences from the early 1970s. This reference stands out for its commitment to a specific period's design language while maintaining Chronoswiss's signature attention to detail.
The watch features an 18k white gold case, measuring 38mm x 38mm, which houses the automatic caliber C. 125. This movement provides a power reserve of 40 hours. The silver dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and durability. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear but not for immersion. The fixed bezel complements the overall case design.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate independent watchmaking and specific vintage design cues, particularly those drawn to the 1970s aesthetic. It offers a blend of traditional craftsmanship with a less common case silhouette, making it a noteworthy piece for those interested in Chronoswiss's more experimental designs. The inclusion of a date complication adds practical functionality to its distinctive appearance.
Specifications
- Caliber
- C. 125
- Case
- 18k white gold
- Diameter
- 38mm x 38mm
- Dial
- Silver
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Vacheron Constantin Historiques Ref. Historiques222
The Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 is a re-edition that pays homage to a significant design from the brand's past. This model is part of the Historiques collection, which is dedicated to reinterpreting Vacheron Constantin's heritage pieces. The 222 stands out for its integrated bracelet design and distinctive monobloc-style case construction, reflecting a particular aesthetic prevalent in the 1970s. It represents a faithful recreation of its predecessor, updated with contemporary manufacturing techniques and materials while retaining the original proportions and character. This reference is a key offering within the brand's contemporary catalog that acknowledges its historical design language.
The case of the Historiques 222 is crafted from yellow gold, featuring a fluted bezel and a screw-down case back. It measures 37mm in diameter, a size that aligns closely with the original model and offers a balanced presence on the wrist. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back, which provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The dial is presented in a sunburst golden hue, complementing the warmth of the yellow gold case. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in historically significant designs and integrated bracelet sports watches. It offers a distinct alternative within Vacheron Constantin's current offerings, providing a link to the brand's design evolution. The Historiques 222 is produced in a single material variant, emphasizing its direct connection to the original model's aesthetic. Its reintroduction underscores the enduring appeal of its design and its place in the lineage of luxury sports watches.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 2455/2
- Case
- Yellow gold
- Diameter
- 37mm
- Dial
- Golden
- Water Resist.
- 50m
- Crystal
- Sapphire