Write-Up on my visit of the VC Manufacture

Jul 17, 2010,03:11 AM
 

Few months ago, I was enough lucky to penetrate in Heaven ... the Vacheron Constantin Manufacture in Plan les Ouates ...






The architecture of the Manufacture reflect the spirit of Vacheron Constantin: luminous, modern but with reminders to the traditions!








our beloved Alex smile







The visit starts with the finishes workshop, look at the dexterity of the watchmakers, all experts in their field!
































This lady is endorsing the certificate of authenticity / Geneva Seal certificate for VC






The second step of the visit was the Métiers d'Art workshops ... but for me, it's was more than simple workshops, there are ideas laboratory!!! In addition of the "classic" Métier d'Art collection pieces, we can discover a huge selection of unique and never seen dials/colors of enamel etc.Each craftsman is working to improve his Art!

Here the windoww dedicated to engraving ...




 ... gems setting ...








... engraving again ...




... enameling ...




Here a huge panel of enamel work ... the Master enamlist is testing new colors and color shades ... some colors are just outstanding!!! Hope we will find them on a future VC!!!




































... the beginning: looks like a small piece of fabric/cotton ...






 ... and after many steps, the small piece become a glossy and shiny piece!! WOW!





Now, take a look at few engraving works ... many are unknow to me
























Miiiiam!!! Skeletoooons ... the finishes are just so beautiful!!














An to finish with the Métier d'Art workshops, this man show us the art of setting diamonds ...








... each diamond have a tailor made cut to be perfectly set in the case!!











Do you recognize these dials? ...




... they belong to the Dragons LE for the Hong Kong VC boutique ...




.. the guilloché work is trully amazing and irresistibly attracts eyes!!!





Now, turn to the assembling workshop!












... here, you can see the perfect mix between tradition and modernity!! Look carefuly at the table of the watchmaker, many calibers are inside the table ...








... and arrive at the chain to the watchmaker who manually assembles the pieces!







And to fish the manufacture visit, the Grande Complication workshop, or Lego Land for the children we are




Here a minute-repeater mechanism ...








... the Minute Repeater DIY Kit!!!




And the Tourbillon DIY Kit








... Obviously, there are many other workshops we could not visit, but each of these workshops contribute to the success of VC!!

The visit of VC Manufacture was an unforgettable and very instructive experience!! Thank you again Alex and all the VC Team for your always warm welcome!!!! ;-)

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Wonderful photos, Fred....

 
 By: WHL : July 17th, 2010-19:13
It looks to me like you and your group had a rewarding visit to Vacheron Constantin's manufacturing facilities. Thank you for sharing the experience with us here. I had a similar tour a couple of months ago (not as well documented) and I am still blown aw... 

brilliant report, thanks!

 
 By: donizetti : July 18th, 2010-09:23
I have never seen pictures of the VC manufacture. It looks fantastic! Best Andreas

Thanks for sharing... ::))

 
 By: MiniCooper : July 18th, 2010-10:39

Great photos! Thanks for sharing your trip with us...

 
 By: Dino944 : July 20th, 2010-13:09
it looks like you had a great time. Your photos really demonstrate all of artistry and craftsmanship that are required to make fine time pieces. I was really impressed with the idea that on a gem set watch, each stone is individually cut for a precise fit...