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Is Vacheron Constantin going down market?

 

Sorry for the provocative title, but I read this today:

watchesbysjx.com

The notion of Hodinkee becoming a retailer isn't the interesting nugget in that article. But this is:

"According to various insiders, Vacheron Constantin will soon be unveiling a new entry-level line of watches – powered by outsourced movements that do not qualify for the Poincon de Geneve – priced as affordably as no watch bearing the name has ever been before."

Outsourced? Who from? We know that Richemont has established a special quality control at Sellita bearing the GrandJean logo. While those are already in Baume & Mercier, and probably in IWC by now, I cannot imagine Sellita movements finding their way into anything with Vacheron Constantin on the dial. I'm recalling the unlamented (by most) Jaeger-LeCoultre Club models of the 70's--in another time of some desperation.

Movements by LeCoultre? That would be much more reasonable, even in a historical sense. In effect, the savings would come from VC no longer taking the ebauche down for their own fine finishing, perhaps. I could live with JLC supplying the "outsourced" movement for a style watch like an Overseas, but I suspect the watches will be uniquely styled to distinguish them from the regular line.

There are members of this forum with much more direct access to those who would know. Any news?

--Rick


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