Vacheron Constantin

Great Boutique experience, new surprising strap - and dangerous ideas?

Sep 04, 2021,13:31 PM

Went to Paris for the first time since the pandemic struck and finally made it to the boutique on Rue de la Paix (which was a mandatory stop during this trip since I just bought the LE dedicated to that very boutique). Had a great time there discussing with Mr Julien*.

First on the agenda was my overseas for which I wanted to buy another rubber strap. After looking at what colors were available (black, blue, brown, white, grey, alas no orange), the discussion went into more creative options in leather. I was finally convinced to go for this “taupe/sand” colored one - not what I originally had in mind but glad I changed my mind.

Very very happy since it transforms totally the watch. Now that the hot summer months and their swimming pools are over for now, I’m happy for the versatility the leather strap brings: I think the color makes the dial pops and changes the watch towards more smart-casual, IMHO.

Then I wanted to discuss whether I needed to service my 86180. Mr Jérôme* came and discussed his view on the various movements, contrasting the automatic 2460 vs the 4400 in my patrimony Traditionelle. He even brought a scale-model to highlight his points.

Finally I had the chance to see watches in the metal: Firstly a “modele unique” from Les Cabinotiers which had just arrived and was waiting for his very lucky owner. Having the chance to seeing it at a distance was amazing. (nB: Now that VC restricted “les cabinotiers”, it became a more distant dream for now - but maybe something to keep in mind, possibly for celebrating a big milestones?)

Then I had the opportunity to try the 1921 (37mm in WG) and the CDV in steel: I liked the smaller 1921, but since it also sports the same 4400 movement as my 82172, I marked it down slightly in my wish-list.

On the other hand, I really fell hard for the Cornes de Vache. The dial is also particularly appealing and seems sometimes to change color. Anything that speaks for or against it? For what it is worth, I currently do not have any manual wound chronometer and wondered if that could be a good step into that realm?

Altogether a great experience - very friendly and equally knowledgeable people. This is definitively an “au revoir” and not an “adieu” as I look forward to returning very soon!

Jérôme

*) I removed the names to ensure privacy on public forum. Hope it’s ok to mention first names, alternatively feel free to edit.