Vacheron Constantin's New Paris Boutique

Vacheron Constantin has brought its luxury Swiss timepieces to a storefront in Paris. It is the company’s 35th boutique around the world and its first in the “City of Light.”

The interior of the 915-square-foot space at 2 Rue de La Paix uses neutral light colors contrasted with dark materials—such as woods, bronze, wrought iron and leather—to create a discreet, luxurious atmosphere. The brand brought in French master artisans to create statement details.

Mathieu Lustrerie, a specialist in light restoration for historical monuments, created a “Saturn” chandelier made of rock crystal, while mosaic artist Pierre Mesguich bejeweled it by hand with 35,000 tiny marble cubes (pictured above). The boutique’s artistic wrought iron decorative elements were tailor-made by Les Métalliers Champenois, whose other works include the restoration of the Statue of Liberty.

The boutique will contain a full line of Vacheron Constantin timepieces as well as a vintage collection named Vacheron Constantin les Collectioneurs,” which are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The collection includes a boutique-exclusive of its 1972 Prestige timepiece, known for its ultra-thin, asymmetrical shape, its 1003 movement and the Prestige de la France coat of arms engraving on its back. The dial of the 18k gold watch shines like silver. It is available at the boutique in a limited-edition of 40 units.

To mark the opening of the Parisian boutique, the Geneva manufacturer commissioned photographer Thierry des Ouches to illustrate his vision of Vacheron Constantin in Paris through his lens. Five owners of Vacheron Constantin timepieces tell the tale of their watches, their Paris, their love of the exceptional and the values they share with Vacheron Constantin on www.2ruedelapaix.fr.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Vacheron Constantin has brought its luxury Swiss timepieces to a storefront in Paris. It is the company’s 35th boutique around the world and its first in the “City of Light.”

The interior of the 915-square-foot space at 2 Rue de La Paix uses neutral light colors contrasted with dark materials—such as woods, bronze, wrought iron and leather—to create a discreet, luxurious atmosphere. The brand brought in French master artisans to create statement details.

Mathieu Lustrerie, a specialist in light restoration for historical monuments, created a “Saturn” chandelier made of rock crystal, while mosaic artist Pierre Mesguich bejeweled it by hand with 35,000 tiny marble cubes (pictured above). The boutique’s artistic wrought iron decorative elements were tailor-made by Les Métalliers Champenois, whose other works include the restoration of the Statue of Liberty.

The boutique will contain a full line of Vacheron Constantin timepieces as well as a vintage collection named Vacheron Constantin les Collectioneurs,” which are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The collection includes a boutique-exclusive of its 1972 Prestige timepiece, known for its ultra-thin, asymmetrical shape, its 1003 movement and the Prestige de la France coat of arms engraving on its back. The dial of the 18k gold watch shines like silver. It is available at the boutique in a limited-edition of 40 units.

To mark the opening of the Parisian boutique, the Geneva manufacturer commissioned photographer Thierry des Ouches to illustrate his vision of Vacheron Constantin in Paris through his lens. Five owners of Vacheron Constantin timepieces tell the tale of their watches, their Paris, their love of the exceptional and the values they share with Vacheron Constantin on www.2ruedelapaix.fr.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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Luxury Ladies’ Watches with Beauty, Brains and Brawn

Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Florilège

The masculine world of watchmaking is showing a newfound respect for women by producing luxury timepieces that are beautiful and built with quality in-house movements and, in some cases, multiple complications. This was evident at the recent Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the exclusive annual tradeshow for luxury watches held in Geneva.

The majority of the 16 brands exhibiting were proudly displaying their feminine side and it’s about time. In my own humble way, I lobbied a few watchmakers to build lady timepieces that are comparable to men’s, though my reasons were selfish. I wanted my wife to stop wearing my watches and damaging the leather straps by tightening them around her much smaller wrist.

Some of the watches below certainly depict feminine themes but there are a few that have a masculine edge to their design. All are powered with mechanical or automated movements. In most cases these movements are superb; comparable to haute horlogerie produced for men. These are not jewelry watches with quartz movements. This group of new timepieces shows that the brands are on the right track when it comes to developing product for modern, active women. At least now, women have more choices.



Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Florilège
The venerable Swiss luxury watch brand has gone all out to attract women this year. It created three new collections of haute horlogerie for women culminating with the elaborately decorated timepieces that make up the Métiers d’Art Florilège (top picture). This three-watch collection pays tribute to the delicacy of 19th Century English botanical illustrations, in particular, Robert John Thornton’s landmark illustrated guide, The Temple of Flora, published in 1799. The botanical renderings on the watch dials combine the artistic crafts of enameling, guillochage and gem-setting (the video above depicts the process). The timepieces are powered by a Vacheron Constantin manual-winding caliber 4400 movement. The three watches in the collection are the Queen, White Lily and China Limodoron. The Métiers d’Art Florilège is available in a limited series of 20 collector’s watches with the bezel set with round-cut diamonds and 5 more with the bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds for the Vacheron Constantin Boutiques.
 

Montblanc Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco Pétales de Roses
The Hamburg-based luxury brand introduced a number of new models of the Montblanc Princess Grace of Monaco Collection—ranging from one that can transcend from casual to formal to two haute joaillerie pieces. They compliment the jewelry line under the same name by designer Susie Otero. All of the watches are 34mm and all contain the self-winding movement MB 4810/409. One of the high jewelry pieces is the “Pétales de Roses” (rose petals). Invisible joints connect individual petal contours to create floral loops that form a linked bracelet. The entire ensemble is made from 18k white gold set with 533 brilliant-cut diamonds. The white mother-of-pearl dial is adorned with rose petals made of 79 brilliant-cut diamonds. The face is surrounded by 130 brilliant-cut diamonds while the bezel that bears 44 baguette diamonds.

Second Authentic Jewelry Watches from Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858
Montblanc’s haute horlogerie manufacturing brand, Villeret 1858, also produced a line of high-performance ladies’ watches using the same hand-crafted Swiss techniques that it employs for its men’s counterparts. The company has long been known for its hand-crafted movements and it didn’t spare any of the skill and technique to produce it mechanical hand-winding calibre MB2.00 for this ladies timepiece. The 36mm watch has a mother-of-pearl dial with black Roman numerals. The seconds are shown on a subdial at 6 o’clock. The concave polished bezel is adorned with 144 brilliant-cut diamonds with a total weight of 0.93 carats. Production will be limited to 58 pieces.

Van Cleef & Arpels Ballerine Enchantée
The famed Parisian jewelry brand also went after women’s market in a big way with three collections of watches combining artistic techniques with in-house movements. The Ballerine Enchantée added a nothing “poetic” step by adding a double retrograde movement with time on demand. The dial depicts a golden ballerina, sculpted in relief and set with diamonds, emphasizing her waist and face. At the push of a button on the bezel, the outer veils of her tutu come to life, taking the appearance of butterfly wings. The first veil that rises indicates the hours and second veil the minutes. They remain in place allowing enough time to read the time and then return simultaneously to their initial positions (the video below demonstrates how it works). Several shades of blue on the dial in the background are created with layers of enamel in guilloche patterns. The bezel of the 40.5 mm white gold case is set with diamonds.

Audemars Piguet Ladycat Royal Oak Offshore chronograph
It’s the 20th anniversary for the Royal Oak Offshore and with it the Swiss luxury watch brand introduced new ladies’ pieces including this 37mm chronograph. The stainless steel case of this limited-edition timepiece reveals the Royal Oak Offshore logo on the back. The bezel is set with diamonds. The black dial with its “Mega Tapestry” pattern includes pink gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. The self-winding caliber 2385 movement is an integrated chronograph movement that provides separate hour, minute and second functions, displayed on the dial at 9 o’clock, 3 o’clock and 6 o’clock, respectively. The date display appears at 5 o’clock.

Baume & Mercier Linea
The 27 mm case of the new Linea automatic is engraved in steel or in steel trimmed with gold. Its mother-of-pearl dial has a date window at the six o’clock position and can be set with 11 diamond hour markers. The Linea’s automatic movement displays hours, minutes and seconds. One of the signature details of this iconic collection is interchangeable bracelets that include leather and satin in several colors. 

Cartier Crash
Housed in its iconic asymmetrical case and dial, Crash appears in a limited edition of four new models adorned for the first time with a bracelet composed of drops in white or pink gold, or gem-set. In reference to the year of its creation (1967), this year’s pieces are produced in 267 numbered pieces for the models with gold bracelets and 67 numbered pieces for the models with gem-set bracelets.

Roger Dubuis Excalibur 36 Jewelry
This is another high jewelry piece with a superb movement, in this case the mechanical calibre RD821. This piece from has a bracelet adorned with 708 brilliant-cut diamonds, totaling 4.25 carats, which form two symmetrical rows on either side of the polished center. The bezel is set with 48 diamonds totaling 0.99 carats. The pink gold extends onto the Roman numerals of the dial and on the circle around the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock.

Parmigiani Pershing Chronograph 002 CBF
This 42mm chronograph contains the PF334automatic winding movement. The tinted mother-of-pearl dial contains a small seconds subdial at 3 o’clock a 12-hour subdial with date window at 6 o’clock and a 30-minute subdial at 9 o’clock. The polished rose-gold bezel is set with set with 56 brilliant cut diamonds.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Florilège

The masculine world of watchmaking is showing a newfound respect for women by producing luxury timepieces that are beautiful and built with quality in-house movements and, in some cases, multiple complications. This was evident at the recent Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the exclusive annual tradeshow for luxury watches held in Geneva.

The majority of the 16 brands exhibiting were proudly displaying their feminine side and it’s about time. In my own humble way, I lobbied a few watchmakers to build lady timepieces that are comparable to men’s, though my reasons were selfish. I wanted my wife to stop wearing my watches and damaging the leather straps by tightening them around her much smaller wrist.

Some of the watches below certainly depict feminine themes but there are a few that have a masculine edge to their design. All are powered with mechanical or automated movements. In most cases these movements are superb; comparable to haute horlogerie produced for men. These are not jewelry watches with quartz movements. This group of new timepieces shows that the brands are on the right track when it comes to developing product for modern, active women. At least now, women have more choices.



Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Florilège
The venerable Swiss luxury watch brand has gone all out to attract women this year. It created three new collections of haute horlogerie for women culminating with the elaborately decorated timepieces that make up the Métiers d’Art Florilège (top picture). This three-watch collection pays tribute to the delicacy of 19th Century English botanical illustrations, in particular, Robert John Thornton’s landmark illustrated guide, The Temple of Flora, published in 1799. The botanical renderings on the watch dials combine the artistic crafts of enameling, guillochage and gem-setting (the video above depicts the process). The timepieces are powered by a Vacheron Constantin manual-winding caliber 4400 movement. The three watches in the collection are the Queen, White Lily and China Limodoron. The Métiers d’Art Florilège is available in a limited series of 20 collector’s watches with the bezel set with round-cut diamonds and 5 more with the bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds for the Vacheron Constantin Boutiques.
 

Montblanc Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco Pétales de Roses
The Hamburg-based luxury brand introduced a number of new models of the Montblanc Princess Grace of Monaco Collection—ranging from one that can transcend from casual to formal to two haute joaillerie pieces. They compliment the jewelry line under the same name by designer Susie Otero. All of the watches are 34mm and all contain the self-winding movement MB 4810/409. One of the high jewelry pieces is the “Pétales de Roses” (rose petals). Invisible joints connect individual petal contours to create floral loops that form a linked bracelet. The entire ensemble is made from 18k white gold set with 533 brilliant-cut diamonds. The white mother-of-pearl dial is adorned with rose petals made of 79 brilliant-cut diamonds. The face is surrounded by 130 brilliant-cut diamonds while the bezel that bears 44 baguette diamonds.

Second Authentic Jewelry Watches from Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858
Montblanc’s haute horlogerie manufacturing brand, Villeret 1858, also produced a line of high-performance ladies’ watches using the same hand-crafted Swiss techniques that it employs for its men’s counterparts. The company has long been known for its hand-crafted movements and it didn’t spare any of the skill and technique to produce it mechanical hand-winding calibre MB2.00 for this ladies timepiece. The 36mm watch has a mother-of-pearl dial with black Roman numerals. The seconds are shown on a subdial at 6 o’clock. The concave polished bezel is adorned with 144 brilliant-cut diamonds with a total weight of 0.93 carats. Production will be limited to 58 pieces.

Van Cleef & Arpels Ballerine Enchantée
The famed Parisian jewelry brand also went after women’s market in a big way with three collections of watches combining artistic techniques with in-house movements. The Ballerine Enchantée added a nothing “poetic” step by adding a double retrograde movement with time on demand. The dial depicts a golden ballerina, sculpted in relief and set with diamonds, emphasizing her waist and face. At the push of a button on the bezel, the outer veils of her tutu come to life, taking the appearance of butterfly wings. The first veil that rises indicates the hours and second veil the minutes. They remain in place allowing enough time to read the time and then return simultaneously to their initial positions (the video below demonstrates how it works). Several shades of blue on the dial in the background are created with layers of enamel in guilloche patterns. The bezel of the 40.5 mm white gold case is set with diamonds.

Audemars Piguet Ladycat Royal Oak Offshore chronograph
It’s the 20th anniversary for the Royal Oak Offshore and with it the Swiss luxury watch brand introduced new ladies’ pieces including this 37mm chronograph. The stainless steel case of this limited-edition timepiece reveals the Royal Oak Offshore logo on the back. The bezel is set with diamonds. The black dial with its “Mega Tapestry” pattern includes pink gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. The self-winding caliber 2385 movement is an integrated chronograph movement that provides separate hour, minute and second functions, displayed on the dial at 9 o’clock, 3 o’clock and 6 o’clock, respectively. The date display appears at 5 o’clock.

Baume & Mercier Linea
The 27 mm case of the new Linea automatic is engraved in steel or in steel trimmed with gold. Its mother-of-pearl dial has a date window at the six o’clock position and can be set with 11 diamond hour markers. The Linea’s automatic movement displays hours, minutes and seconds. One of the signature details of this iconic collection is interchangeable bracelets that include leather and satin in several colors. 

Cartier Crash
Housed in its iconic asymmetrical case and dial, Crash appears in a limited edition of four new models adorned for the first time with a bracelet composed of drops in white or pink gold, or gem-set. In reference to the year of its creation (1967), this year’s pieces are produced in 267 numbered pieces for the models with gold bracelets and 67 numbered pieces for the models with gem-set bracelets.

Roger Dubuis Excalibur 36 Jewelry
This is another high jewelry piece with a superb movement, in this case the mechanical calibre RD821. This piece from has a bracelet adorned with 708 brilliant-cut diamonds, totaling 4.25 carats, which form two symmetrical rows on either side of the polished center. The bezel is set with 48 diamonds totaling 0.99 carats. The pink gold extends onto the Roman numerals of the dial and on the circle around the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock.

Parmigiani Pershing Chronograph 002 CBF
This 42mm chronograph contains the PF334automatic winding movement. The tinted mother-of-pearl dial contains a small seconds subdial at 3 o’clock a 12-hour subdial with date window at 6 o’clock and a 30-minute subdial at 9 o’clock. The polished rose-gold bezel is set with set with 56 brilliant cut diamonds.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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Report: 7% Increase in Interest for Haute Horlogerie, Led by BRIC and Asian Markets

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak,
such as this 'City of Sails' piece,
is the most sought-after
haute horlogerie
watch model in the world.

Is there a slowdown in the luxury watch market? Maybe. But global interest in luxury timepieces (haute horlogerie) not only remains strong but actually increased by 7 percent in 2012, according to the preliminary results of a global report.

Luxury industry market intelligence firm, Digital Luxury Group, recently released the results of the haute horlogerie category (18 brands) of the WorldWatchReport, based on an analysis of watch-related search queries typed into major global search engines. Among the findings:

1. Compared to the previous year, the highest-end category of luxury watches, haute horlogerie, experienced a 7% increase in brand interest. “This marks the third year in a row that the online interest of this highest-end segment of luxury watches has increased, showing the continued strength of haute horlogerie within the overall market,” said Florent Bondoux, DLG head of Strategy & Intelligence.

2. Of the 20 markets analyzed in the study, nearly half (47%) of global interest for haute horlogerie stems from Brazil, Russia, India, China, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Mainland China on its own compromises 31 percent of the global demand or twice as much as the U.S. market.

3. There’s a downward trend in mature luxury watch markets with the U.S. down by 10.6 percent and Japan down by 11.7 percent in its share of global demand. While relative share of demand has progressively shrank in the past three years in most established markets, for the first time since the report’s launch in 2004, there was an absolute decline in domestic demand in the U.S. and Japan.

4. Patek Philippe remains by far the leading haute horlogerie watch brand with 23.6 percent of brand interest share. Jaeger-LeCoultre takes the second spot with 12.7 percent, closely followed by Vacheron Constantin at 12.6 percent, Audemars Piguet at 9.2 percent and Breguet at 7.7 percent.

5. Along with Richard Mille, Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe also record the highest growth rates in brand interest year-over-year, with 26 percent and 10.2 percent, respectively. Founded in 2001, the Richard Mille brand is the fastest growing haute horlogerie brand (61% over last year), followed by Vacheron Constantin (26%), and Patek Philippe (10.2%).

6. Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, reinforcing its leading position of last year, continues its reign as the most sought-after haute horlogerie watch model, increasing its online interest by 5 percent over the last year, likely an effect of the increased communications surrounding the icon’s 40th anniversary. Though the Royal Oak leads globally, local preferences arise for other models in markets such as Japan (Girard-Perregaux’s 1945), China (Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas), and Russia (Blancpain’s Leman).

Haute horlogerie brands tracked in this preview report were: A. Lange & Söhne, Audemars Piguet, Blancpain, Bovet, Breguet, De Bethune, Frank Muller, Girard-Perregaux, Glashütte Original, Greubel Forsey, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jaquet Droz, Parmigiani, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, Roger Dubuis, Ulysse Nardin and Vacheron Constantin.

The full edition of the WorldWatchReport, which this year will cover more than 60 watch brands in 20 markets worldwide, will be available in April.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak,
such as this 'City of Sails' piece,
is the most sought-after
haute horlogerie
watch model in the world.

Is there a slowdown in the luxury watch market? Maybe. But global interest in luxury timepieces (haute horlogerie) not only remains strong but actually increased by 7 percent in 2012, according to the preliminary results of a global report.

Luxury industry market intelligence firm, Digital Luxury Group, recently released the results of the haute horlogerie category (18 brands) of the WorldWatchReport, based on an analysis of watch-related search queries typed into major global search engines. Among the findings:

1. Compared to the previous year, the highest-end category of luxury watches, haute horlogerie, experienced a 7% increase in brand interest. “This marks the third year in a row that the online interest of this highest-end segment of luxury watches has increased, showing the continued strength of haute horlogerie within the overall market,” said Florent Bondoux, DLG head of Strategy & Intelligence.

2. Of the 20 markets analyzed in the study, nearly half (47%) of global interest for haute horlogerie stems from Brazil, Russia, India, China, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Mainland China on its own compromises 31 percent of the global demand or twice as much as the U.S. market.

3. There’s a downward trend in mature luxury watch markets with the U.S. down by 10.6 percent and Japan down by 11.7 percent in its share of global demand. While relative share of demand has progressively shrank in the past three years in most established markets, for the first time since the report’s launch in 2004, there was an absolute decline in domestic demand in the U.S. and Japan.

4. Patek Philippe remains by far the leading haute horlogerie watch brand with 23.6 percent of brand interest share. Jaeger-LeCoultre takes the second spot with 12.7 percent, closely followed by Vacheron Constantin at 12.6 percent, Audemars Piguet at 9.2 percent and Breguet at 7.7 percent.

5. Along with Richard Mille, Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe also record the highest growth rates in brand interest year-over-year, with 26 percent and 10.2 percent, respectively. Founded in 2001, the Richard Mille brand is the fastest growing haute horlogerie brand (61% over last year), followed by Vacheron Constantin (26%), and Patek Philippe (10.2%).

6. Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, reinforcing its leading position of last year, continues its reign as the most sought-after haute horlogerie watch model, increasing its online interest by 5 percent over the last year, likely an effect of the increased communications surrounding the icon’s 40th anniversary. Though the Royal Oak leads globally, local preferences arise for other models in markets such as Japan (Girard-Perregaux’s 1945), China (Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas), and Russia (Blancpain’s Leman).

Haute horlogerie brands tracked in this preview report were: A. Lange & Söhne, Audemars Piguet, Blancpain, Bovet, Breguet, De Bethune, Frank Muller, Girard-Perregaux, Glashütte Original, Greubel Forsey, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jaquet Droz, Parmigiani, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, Roger Dubuis, Ulysse Nardin and Vacheron Constantin.

The full edition of the WorldWatchReport, which this year will cover more than 60 watch brands in 20 markets worldwide, will be available in April.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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Vacheron Constantin Shares the Same Values as Matisse

Hugues de Pins of Vacheron Constantin addresses guests at the preview of a new Matisse exhibit at the Met. Photo credit: Anthony DeMarco

Vacheron Constantin has a long relationship with the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In support of this relationship the Swiss luxury watch brand is sponsoring the exhibit, Matisse: In Search of True Painting, which examines the process of how the world renowned artist, Henri Matisse, created his art and developed his skills by producing multiple works of the same scene in different painting styles.

Hugues de Pins, North American president of Vacheron Constantin, hosted a preview tour of the exhibit on November 29. Rebecca Rabinow, curator in the Museum’s Department of Modern and Contemporary Art, led a 20-minute tour of the exhibition where she detailed highlights among the 49 paintings. The exhibit will run till March 17, 2013.

Rabinow explained that Matisse took inspiration from traditional paintings and the work of his contemporaries. He painted the same scene twice in the different styles of those he was studying. Over the years his technique of painting the same scene twice produced wildly different affects that was not in the style of others.

Young Sailor I (left) and Young Sailor II provided a bold example of how Henri Matisse approached his work. Photo credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art

For example, his painting of a local teenager in Collioure, France, (pictured above) had all the hallmarks of the bright and expressive colors from his Fauvism period, a style of painting that he helped to create. He then painted a second version of the same image on an identically sized canvas, this time using flat color to produce a drastically different effect. Unsure of his new direction, Matisse told friends that the second painting was by the local postman. The exhibit includes many of these examples throughout his life (in particular two large paintings of a trio of bathers), his use of photography during his later years, and his paintings of a well-known Italian model named Laurette.

The exhibition gives the impression of a painter who was constantly getting better at his craft, even after the age where one might think he was past his prime.

“Matisse, in Search of True Painting I think corresponds very well with our company,” de Pins said during a lunch at the museum following the tour. “He was always looking, searching for perfection, excellence…. Our designers, our craftsmen, our watchmakers work in this spirit.”

De Pin said that even with the reputation Matisse had, it meant nothing to him as he continued to struggle with creating exceptional work. “You really need to keep on searching for excellence and perfection,” he said.

The event also gave a chance for de Pins to introduce Hyla Bauer as Vacheron Constantin’s new head of public relations in North America to the press members in attendance. Bauer was formerly the executive fashion editor of Conde Nast Traveler.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Hugues de Pins of Vacheron Constantin addresses guests at the preview of a new Matisse exhibit at the Met. Photo credit: Anthony DeMarco

Vacheron Constantin has a long relationship with the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In support of this relationship the Swiss luxury watch brand is sponsoring the exhibit, Matisse: In Search of True Painting, which examines the process of how the world renowned artist, Henri Matisse, created his art and developed his skills by producing multiple works of the same scene in different painting styles.

Hugues de Pins, North American president of Vacheron Constantin, hosted a preview tour of the exhibit on November 29. Rebecca Rabinow, curator in the Museum’s Department of Modern and Contemporary Art, led a 20-minute tour of the exhibition where she detailed highlights among the 49 paintings. The exhibit will run till March 17, 2013.

Rabinow explained that Matisse took inspiration from traditional paintings and the work of his contemporaries. He painted the same scene twice in the different styles of those he was studying. Over the years his technique of painting the same scene twice produced wildly different affects that was not in the style of others.

Young Sailor I (left) and Young Sailor II provided a bold example of how Henri Matisse approached his work. Photo credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art

For example, his painting of a local teenager in Collioure, France, (pictured above) had all the hallmarks of the bright and expressive colors from his Fauvism period, a style of painting that he helped to create. He then painted a second version of the same image on an identically sized canvas, this time using flat color to produce a drastically different effect. Unsure of his new direction, Matisse told friends that the second painting was by the local postman. The exhibit includes many of these examples throughout his life (in particular two large paintings of a trio of bathers), his use of photography during his later years, and his paintings of a well-known Italian model named Laurette.

The exhibition gives the impression of a painter who was constantly getting better at his craft, even after the age where one might think he was past his prime.

“Matisse, in Search of True Painting I think corresponds very well with our company,” de Pins said during a lunch at the museum following the tour. “He was always looking, searching for perfection, excellence…. Our designers, our craftsmen, our watchmakers work in this spirit.”

De Pin said that even with the reputation Matisse had, it meant nothing to him as he continued to struggle with creating exceptional work. “You really need to keep on searching for excellence and perfection,” he said.

The event also gave a chance for de Pins to introduce Hyla Bauer as Vacheron Constantin’s new head of public relations in North America to the press members in attendance. Bauer was formerly the executive fashion editor of Conde Nast Traveler.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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Richemont Sales Up 21%, Profit Up 52%

Swiss luxury goods conglomerate, Compagnie Financière Richemont, said Friday that sales increased, year-over-year, for the first half of the fiscal year by 21 percent to €5.1 billion ($6.5 billion). By constant exchange rates sales grew 12 percent.

Profit for the period rose 52 percent to €1.08 billion ($1.37 billion); with operating profit up by 28 percent to €1.38 billion ($1.75 billion), benefiting from favorable currency movements, and gross profit up 24 percent to €3.31 billion ($4.2 billion). Operating margin gained 150 basis points to reach 27 percent.

The Geneva-based company cited “solid growth in all segments, regions and channels” along with favorable currency rates and Asian tourism in Europe for the strong performance.

Richemont owns many of the world’s best-known luxury brands (known as “maisons” by the company) including Cartier, Montblanc, Vacheron Constantin, Van Cleef & Arpels and Piaget. It also has wholesale businesses and owns the luxury retail website, Net-A-Porter.com. A list of its businesses can be found by following this link.

“The Group’s maisons benefited from favorable exchange rates effects, successful product launches as well as strong pricing power,” said Johann Rupert, Richemont executive chairman and CEO. “The increase in net profit was well above the prior period, reflecting both the growth in operating results and the non-recurrence of non-cash losses, which stemmed from the Swiss franc’s appreciation against the euro.”

He added, “Sales growth rates moderated, as evidenced by the October sales which grew by 12 percent at actual exchange rates. At constant exchange rates, they were 7 percent higher. Richemont is seeing good growth in Europe, supported by Asian tourism which is compensating for slower domestic Asia Pacific sales. Retail continued to lead wholesale, reflecting robust jewelry sales.”

Rupert did warn that sales and profits could slow as exchange rates will like be “less favorable” for the remainder of the fiscal year.

By region the company reported that sales in Europe accounted for 36 percent of overall sales as the region enjoyed good growth, with tourists driving the above-average increase. The highest growth rates were in the Maisons’ own boutiques in tourist destinations, including the Middle East. Europe’s reported a 23 percent growth in sales for the period to €1.85 billion ($2.35). At constant exchange rates, sales increased by 19 percent.

Asia Pacific remains the strongest region for Richemont but sales growth has slowed. The region accounted for 41 percent of the Group’s total, with Hong Kong and mainland China the two largest markets. “Sales growth in our maisons’ own boutiques in the region was well above the increase in sales to wholesale partners, partly reflecting the number of boutique openings in the last two years,” the company said. Asia reported a 22 percent growth in sales for the period to €2.1 billion ($2.67). At constant exchange rates, sales increased 9 percent.

After two years of what the company termed as “outstanding sales,” the Americas region reported that sales grew 16 percent to €698 million ($877 million). However, at constant exchange rates, growth was 4 percent. The region represented 14 percent of overall sales for Richemont.

Japan, which Richemont lists separately, saw what the company terms as “continued momentum” in sales in all retail segments. The struggling market saw its sales increase by 18 percent to €448 million ($570 million). At constant exchange rates the increase was 4 percent.

Its group of jewelry brands saw sales grow by 20 percent to €2.6 billion ($3.3 billion) with operating results of €958 ($1.21 billion), a 31 percent increase. Operating margin gained 280 basis points to reach 36.7 percent.

Meanwhile, its specialist watchmakers group reported that sales increased 25 percent to €1.46 billion ($1.85 billion) with operating results of €470 ($592 million), a 51 percent increase. Operating margin gained 560 basis points to reach 32.2 percent.

Montblanc, the German brand known for its luxury writing instruments but also manufactures and sells luxury leather goods, jewelry and watches, is listed separately by Richemont. It reported that its sales increased 10 percent to €368 million ($468 million) with operating results of €53 million ($67.3 million), a 2 percent decline. Operating margin lost 180 basis points to reach 14.4 percent. Richemont said that Montblanc doesn’t benefit much from sales in tourist destinations.

For its other businesses—which includes Richemont’s Fashion and Accessories businesses, Net-a-Porter and watch component manufacturing activities—results are as follows:

* Fashion & Accessories maisons saw double-digit sales growth and operating profits were in line with the prior period at €25 million.

* Sales growth at Net-a-Porter is “normalizing” but continues to exceed the Group’s average. Net-a-Porter reduced its losses during the period, but generated a positive operating cashflow.

* Losses at the Group’s watch component manufacturing facilities were in line with the comparative period.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Swiss luxury goods conglomerate, Compagnie Financière Richemont, said Friday that sales increased, year-over-year, for the first half of the fiscal year by 21 percent to €5.1 billion ($6.5 billion). By constant exchange rates sales grew 12 percent.

Profit for the period rose 52 percent to €1.08 billion ($1.37 billion); with operating profit up by 28 percent to €1.38 billion ($1.75 billion), benefiting from favorable currency movements, and gross profit up 24 percent to €3.31 billion ($4.2 billion). Operating margin gained 150 basis points to reach 27 percent.

The Geneva-based company cited “solid growth in all segments, regions and channels” along with favorable currency rates and Asian tourism in Europe for the strong performance.

Richemont owns many of the world’s best-known luxury brands (known as “maisons” by the company) including Cartier, Montblanc, Vacheron Constantin, Van Cleef & Arpels and Piaget. It also has wholesale businesses and owns the luxury retail website, Net-A-Porter.com. A list of its businesses can be found by following this link.

“The Group’s maisons benefited from favorable exchange rates effects, successful product launches as well as strong pricing power,” said Johann Rupert, Richemont executive chairman and CEO. “The increase in net profit was well above the prior period, reflecting both the growth in operating results and the non-recurrence of non-cash losses, which stemmed from the Swiss franc’s appreciation against the euro.”

He added, “Sales growth rates moderated, as evidenced by the October sales which grew by 12 percent at actual exchange rates. At constant exchange rates, they were 7 percent higher. Richemont is seeing good growth in Europe, supported by Asian tourism which is compensating for slower domestic Asia Pacific sales. Retail continued to lead wholesale, reflecting robust jewelry sales.”

Rupert did warn that sales and profits could slow as exchange rates will like be “less favorable” for the remainder of the fiscal year.

By region the company reported that sales in Europe accounted for 36 percent of overall sales as the region enjoyed good growth, with tourists driving the above-average increase. The highest growth rates were in the Maisons’ own boutiques in tourist destinations, including the Middle East. Europe’s reported a 23 percent growth in sales for the period to €1.85 billion ($2.35). At constant exchange rates, sales increased by 19 percent.

Asia Pacific remains the strongest region for Richemont but sales growth has slowed. The region accounted for 41 percent of the Group’s total, with Hong Kong and mainland China the two largest markets. “Sales growth in our maisons’ own boutiques in the region was well above the increase in sales to wholesale partners, partly reflecting the number of boutique openings in the last two years,” the company said. Asia reported a 22 percent growth in sales for the period to €2.1 billion ($2.67). At constant exchange rates, sales increased 9 percent.

After two years of what the company termed as “outstanding sales,” the Americas region reported that sales grew 16 percent to €698 million ($877 million). However, at constant exchange rates, growth was 4 percent. The region represented 14 percent of overall sales for Richemont.

Japan, which Richemont lists separately, saw what the company terms as “continued momentum” in sales in all retail segments. The struggling market saw its sales increase by 18 percent to €448 million ($570 million). At constant exchange rates the increase was 4 percent.

Its group of jewelry brands saw sales grow by 20 percent to €2.6 billion ($3.3 billion) with operating results of €958 ($1.21 billion), a 31 percent increase. Operating margin gained 280 basis points to reach 36.7 percent.

Meanwhile, its specialist watchmakers group reported that sales increased 25 percent to €1.46 billion ($1.85 billion) with operating results of €470 ($592 million), a 51 percent increase. Operating margin gained 560 basis points to reach 32.2 percent.

Montblanc, the German brand known for its luxury writing instruments but also manufactures and sells luxury leather goods, jewelry and watches, is listed separately by Richemont. It reported that its sales increased 10 percent to €368 million ($468 million) with operating results of €53 million ($67.3 million), a 2 percent decline. Operating margin lost 180 basis points to reach 14.4 percent. Richemont said that Montblanc doesn’t benefit much from sales in tourist destinations.

For its other businesses—which includes Richemont’s Fashion and Accessories businesses, Net-a-Porter and watch component manufacturing activities—results are as follows:

* Fashion & Accessories maisons saw double-digit sales growth and operating profits were in line with the prior period at €25 million.

* Sales growth at Net-a-Porter is “normalizing” but continues to exceed the Group’s average. Net-a-Porter reduced its losses during the period, but generated a positive operating cashflow.

* Losses at the Group’s watch component manufacturing facilities were in line with the comparative period.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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A Luxury Marketing Partnership: Rolls-Royce, Vacheron Constantin Host A Thomas Keller Dinner

Chef Thomas Keller explains the meal he prepared for the well-heeled guests of Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

Luxury automobiles and high-end timepieces seem to go hand-in-hand among collectors. Those who appreciate the high-powered engines and vivid design of the most expensive automobiles, also admire the miniature components of mechanical watch movements and the more subtle finishes of well-crafted haute horlogerie. Many of these car and watch brands develop long-standing partnerships that include joint product introductions and long-term marketing agreements. This is especially true when it comes to sports cars.

However, it was a different kind of partnership that recently occurred between Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin. The British luxury automobile company and Swiss luxury watch brand invited about 50 of their clients to dinner, but it wasn’t just any meal. 

Guests talk in front of a Vacheron Constantin watch display.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

The event was held in a villa on the Monterey Peninsula in a development at least partially owned by Clint Eastwood. The food was prepared by a staff led by Thomas Keller, arguably the best chef in the United States. The event was held on the night before the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the internationally renowned annual antique car competition held on August 19.

While the event was formal, the partnership between the two brands was informal and temporary, which is how they both want it. They have worked together a few times for small events in the past—including annual private events in Europe and when Vacheron Constantin opened its Madison Avenue boutique in late 2011. But this is the first time they’ve teamed up to put together an outing of this magnitude.

“There is a natural attraction between both maisons. We share a lot of customers. And there is a mutual appreciation from their customers for both nice cars and nice watches,” said Hugues de Pins, Vacheron Constantin, CEO of North America. “As far as I know this is the only one (company that Vercheron has partnered with). This is very punctual. There is no agreement between both companies.”

A Vacheron Constantin watchmaker explains the finer points of a luxury timepiece.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

De Pins defines this type of event as providing an experience for what who he describes as “friends” of the two brands. The event he says is not about sales.

“What we organize today is a dinner among friends and what we want to bring is an exceptional moment and an exceptional experience,” he said prior to the event. “What best can we get for our friends then having this world-class dinner by Chef Thomas Keller, surrounded by extraordinary cars and extraordinary watches in this beautiful scenery? I think this is going to be magic. This kind of takeaway is at the end of the day what our customers are looking for and expect. Not just the single fact of purchasing a watch but what comes beyond the purchase of a watch. The nice experience we want to live together.”

David Archibald, president of Rolls-Royce North America, Chef Thomas Keller and Hugues de Pins, Vacheron Constantin, CEO North America. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

This is a sentiment echoed by David Archibald, president of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America.

“Luxury should not be defined by a single item, but viewed as a lifestyle. Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin share a discerning clientele who seek superior craftsmanship and innovative design, as well as unique and memorable experiences.”  Archibald said. “An event such as this, with its stunning setting and Chef Keller’s unparalleled cuisine, is the epitome of the luxury lifestyle that both Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin represent and offer to their clientele.”

But there is product placement. Dinner was served outside and in plain view was a two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost strategically fronting both the view of the valley below and in front the setting sun. Inside the villa Vacheron had its collection of timepieces available for viewing. De Pins stresses that they are not for sale. Some of the items were one-of-kind pieces. The brand also brought a watchmaker who gave demonstrations for the guests. 
 

Thomas Keller created an open kitchen where guests can enter while the staff works. Keller us standing in the background.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

There was a bit of sticker shock for the Rolls Royce customers who I shared a table with when they learned that a few of the watches on display were nearly double the cost of a Rolls Royce.

In a kitchen open for guests to enter while the staff worked, Keller designed a dinner themed with the two luxury brands in mind. 

 

“We tried to bring inspiration from both of these companies and bring them to life on a plate,” he said. “I think we were to at least able bring some recognition to some of the key words and key phrases that are so ingrained in the philosophy and culture of these companies.”

Among the courses was a caviar dish titled “Silver and Platinum,” the metals for Rolls Royce cars (silver) and for luxury watches (platinum). The staff cut the vegetables for a hearts of palm salad in a way that resembles the watchmaking technique of beveling. A braised short rib was titled, “Best Made Better,” after the Rolls-Royce slogan. A final desert was titled “Bespoke,” of course named after what many define as the most ultimate luxury experience. It was a chocolate tart with a selection of condiments. 

A bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghost was in perfect view of the dinner guests as the sun was setting'. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

The meal from appetizers to desert was not favorable, artfully prepared and flawlessly served. To pull this off Keller brought in 19 employees from his restaurants around the country, describing it as a major undertaking that included hotel accommodations during one of the busiest times of the year in Monterey and daily transportation to and from the villa.

“It’s a major commitment,” he said. “Vacheron has the same standards. Rolls-Royce has the same standards. I don’t do many of these events.”

It also was a major expense. It was rumored that the cost of hosting this event was about $1,700 per person. 

These two Patrimony Traditionnelle timepieces were among the watches the Swiss luxury watch brand had on display. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

It’s the price of what de Pins describes as creating “magic,” for friends of the brand. Magic is certainly a way to describe the evening. Few details were left unattended from the greeting at the entrance of the villa to the gifts at the end of the night. As the sun set behind the Rolls-Royce and the evening became cool as it often does in this part of the country, women were given bright orange silk shawls—with the Rolls-Royce logo.

At the end of the night the two car collectors at my table, obviously moved by the experienced, declared that were going to buy another Rolls Royce.

Now that’s what I call magic. 

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

Chef Thomas Keller explains the meal he prepared for the well-heeled guests of Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

Luxury automobiles and high-end timepieces seem to go hand-in-hand among collectors. Those who appreciate the high-powered engines and vivid design of the most expensive automobiles, also admire the miniature components of mechanical watch movements and the more subtle finishes of well-crafted haute horlogerie. Many of these car and watch brands develop long-standing partnerships that include joint product introductions and long-term marketing agreements. This is especially true when it comes to sports cars.

However, it was a different kind of partnership that recently occurred between Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin. The British luxury automobile company and Swiss luxury watch brand invited about 50 of their clients to dinner, but it wasn’t just any meal. 

Guests talk in front of a Vacheron Constantin watch display.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

The event was held in a villa on the Monterey Peninsula in a development at least partially owned by Clint Eastwood. The food was prepared by a staff led by Thomas Keller, arguably the best chef in the United States. The event was held on the night before the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the internationally renowned annual antique car competition held on August 19.

While the event was formal, the partnership between the two brands was informal and temporary, which is how they both want it. They have worked together a few times for small events in the past—including annual private events in Europe and when Vacheron Constantin opened its Madison Avenue boutique in late 2011. But this is the first time they’ve teamed up to put together an outing of this magnitude.

“There is a natural attraction between both maisons. We share a lot of customers. And there is a mutual appreciation from their customers for both nice cars and nice watches,” said Hugues de Pins, Vacheron Constantin, CEO of North America. “As far as I know this is the only one (company that Vercheron has partnered with). This is very punctual. There is no agreement between both companies.”

A Vacheron Constantin watchmaker explains the finer points of a luxury timepiece.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

De Pins defines this type of event as providing an experience for what who he describes as “friends” of the two brands. The event he says is not about sales.

“What we organize today is a dinner among friends and what we want to bring is an exceptional moment and an exceptional experience,” he said prior to the event. “What best can we get for our friends then having this world-class dinner by Chef Thomas Keller, surrounded by extraordinary cars and extraordinary watches in this beautiful scenery? I think this is going to be magic. This kind of takeaway is at the end of the day what our customers are looking for and expect. Not just the single fact of purchasing a watch but what comes beyond the purchase of a watch. The nice experience we want to live together.”

David Archibald, president of Rolls-Royce North America, Chef Thomas Keller and Hugues de Pins, Vacheron Constantin, CEO North America. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

This is a sentiment echoed by David Archibald, president of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America.

“Luxury should not be defined by a single item, but viewed as a lifestyle. Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin share a discerning clientele who seek superior craftsmanship and innovative design, as well as unique and memorable experiences.”  Archibald said. “An event such as this, with its stunning setting and Chef Keller’s unparalleled cuisine, is the epitome of the luxury lifestyle that both Rolls-Royce and Vacheron Constantin represent and offer to their clientele.”

But there is product placement. Dinner was served outside and in plain view was a two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost strategically fronting both the view of the valley below and in front the setting sun. Inside the villa Vacheron had its collection of timepieces available for viewing. De Pins stresses that they are not for sale. Some of the items were one-of-kind pieces. The brand also brought a watchmaker who gave demonstrations for the guests. 
 

Thomas Keller created an open kitchen where guests can enter while the staff works. Keller us standing in the background.  Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

There was a bit of sticker shock for the Rolls Royce customers who I shared a table with when they learned that a few of the watches on display were nearly double the cost of a Rolls Royce.

In a kitchen open for guests to enter while the staff worked, Keller designed a dinner themed with the two luxury brands in mind. 

 

“We tried to bring inspiration from both of these companies and bring them to life on a plate,” he said. “I think we were to at least able bring some recognition to some of the key words and key phrases that are so ingrained in the philosophy and culture of these companies.”

Among the courses was a caviar dish titled “Silver and Platinum,” the metals for Rolls Royce cars (silver) and for luxury watches (platinum). The staff cut the vegetables for a hearts of palm salad in a way that resembles the watchmaking technique of beveling. A braised short rib was titled, “Best Made Better,” after the Rolls-Royce slogan. A final desert was titled “Bespoke,” of course named after what many define as the most ultimate luxury experience. It was a chocolate tart with a selection of condiments. 

A bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghost was in perfect view of the dinner guests as the sun was setting'. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

The meal from appetizers to desert was not favorable, artfully prepared and flawlessly served. To pull this off Keller brought in 19 employees from his restaurants around the country, describing it as a major undertaking that included hotel accommodations during one of the busiest times of the year in Monterey and daily transportation to and from the villa.

“It’s a major commitment,” he said. “Vacheron has the same standards. Rolls-Royce has the same standards. I don’t do many of these events.”

It also was a major expense. It was rumored that the cost of hosting this event was about $1,700 per person. 

These two Patrimony Traditionnelle timepieces were among the watches the Swiss luxury watch brand had on display. Photo credit: Derek Gardner Photography

It’s the price of what de Pins describes as creating “magic,” for friends of the brand. Magic is certainly a way to describe the evening. Few details were left unattended from the greeting at the entrance of the villa to the gifts at the end of the night. As the sun set behind the Rolls-Royce and the evening became cool as it often does in this part of the country, women were given bright orange silk shawls—with the Rolls-Royce logo.

At the end of the night the two car collectors at my table, obviously moved by the experienced, declared that were going to buy another Rolls Royce.

Now that’s what I call magic. 

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Web site.

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Vacheron Constantin Partners with U.S. Watchmaking School

Students of the NAIOSW Swiss watchmaking classes of 2013 and 2014 along with school officials and Vacheron Constantin representatives.

Vacheron Constantin, and the North American Institute of Swiss Watchmaking have formed a two-year partnership to promote and support high watchmaking in North America.

Vacheron Constantin is the first Swiss watchmaking brand to partner with the NAIOSW, based in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. The partnership is an extension of the brand’s worldwide support of the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking, of which the NAIOSW is a branch.

Students in the classes of 2013 and 2014 that the Swiss luxury watch brand is sponsoring celebrated their first day of school on September 13 with a reception hosted by Denis Jaquenoud, president of NAIOSW, and Hugues de Pins, president, Vacheron Constantin North America.

The North American Institute of Swiss Watchmaking opened its doors in 2009 with a mission to preserve the art of fine watchmaking and meet an increasing demand for qualified watchmakers and craftspeople. The program accepts only six students per year to guarantee ample one-on-one training.

Vacheron Constantin will mentor and educate students about the watchmaker’s career from a brand perspective. The brand will supply educational tools on high watchmaking topics, such as the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, founded in 1887. Students who graduate at the top of their class will be invited to Vacheron Constantin in Geneva for a three-week “Discovery Internship.”

“This partnership is faithful to our values of perpetuating the tradition of high watchmaking and transmitting the know-how of our watchmakers,” de Pins said.

Two certificates are offered at the NAIOSW: the Watch Encasing Technician Certificate which requires 640 hours of training over four months, and the Watchmaker Certificate which requires 3,000 hours over two years. The two-year Watchmaker program provides advance education and training. Both programs meet the exacting requirements of the "Swiss Made" standard and feature a student-centered learning environment based on theory and experience. The Institute’s trainers have a more than 50 years of watchmaking and teaching experience combined.

The NAIOSW is part of The Institute of Swiss Watchmaking, founded in 2008 in partnership with Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program, an independent institution based in Switzerland. WOSTEP partners with watchmaking schools throughout the world to ensure high training standards and quality education in accordance with the demanding criteria of the Swiss fine watchmaking industry.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page and on Twitter  @JewelryNewsNet.

Students of the NAIOSW Swiss watchmaking classes of 2013 and 2014 along with school officials and Vacheron Constantin representatives.

Vacheron Constantin, and the North American Institute of Swiss Watchmaking have formed a two-year partnership to promote and support high watchmaking in North America.

Vacheron Constantin is the first Swiss watchmaking brand to partner with the NAIOSW, based in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. The partnership is an extension of the brand’s worldwide support of the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking, of which the NAIOSW is a branch.

Students in the classes of 2013 and 2014 that the Swiss luxury watch brand is sponsoring celebrated their first day of school on September 13 with a reception hosted by Denis Jaquenoud, president of NAIOSW, and Hugues de Pins, president, Vacheron Constantin North America.

The North American Institute of Swiss Watchmaking opened its doors in 2009 with a mission to preserve the art of fine watchmaking and meet an increasing demand for qualified watchmakers and craftspeople. The program accepts only six students per year to guarantee ample one-on-one training.

Vacheron Constantin will mentor and educate students about the watchmaker’s career from a brand perspective. The brand will supply educational tools on high watchmaking topics, such as the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, founded in 1887. Students who graduate at the top of their class will be invited to Vacheron Constantin in Geneva for a three-week “Discovery Internship.”

“This partnership is faithful to our values of perpetuating the tradition of high watchmaking and transmitting the know-how of our watchmakers,” de Pins said.

Two certificates are offered at the NAIOSW: the Watch Encasing Technician Certificate which requires 640 hours of training over four months, and the Watchmaker Certificate which requires 3,000 hours over two years. The two-year Watchmaker program provides advance education and training. Both programs meet the exacting requirements of the "Swiss Made" standard and feature a student-centered learning environment based on theory and experience. The Institute’s trainers have a more than 50 years of watchmaking and teaching experience combined.

The NAIOSW is part of The Institute of Swiss Watchmaking, founded in 2008 in partnership with Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program, an independent institution based in Switzerland. WOSTEP partners with watchmaking schools throughout the world to ensure high training standards and quality education in accordance with the demanding criteria of the Swiss fine watchmaking industry.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page and on Twitter  @JewelryNewsNet.

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Vacheron Constantin Opens Boutique in Las Vegas

Entrance of the new Vacheron Constantin Las Vegas boutique.

Swiss luxury watch brand, Vacheron Constantin, opened a new boutique Monday at the Palazzo Hotel, Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, marking the company’s 30th boutique worldwide and its second boutique in North America after the opening in New York in September 2011.

The interior design of the new retail space uses contemporary elements combined with traditional design techniques, the Geneva-based brand said, noting that it is “an architectural perspective that reveals the brand’s constant search for excellence and aesthetic perfection.” The materials and color scheme provide “a warm and comfortable atmosphere dedicated to technical and precious haute horlogerie.”

The boutique will offer the entire range of collections from the Geneva-based brand, as well as exclusive boutique models.

“This opening is another milestone in the brand’s worldwide expansion and allows us to provide an experience that will enhance customer understanding of the brand and its longstanding history in haute horlogerie,” said Hugues de Pins, president of Vacheron Constantin North America.

Vacheron Constantin, established in 1755, is the world’s oldest continuous watch manufacturer.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page and on Twitter  @JewelryNewsNet. 

Entrance of the new Vacheron Constantin Las Vegas boutique.

Swiss luxury watch brand, Vacheron Constantin, opened a new boutique Monday at the Palazzo Hotel, Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, marking the company’s 30th boutique worldwide and its second boutique in North America after the opening in New York in September 2011.

The interior design of the new retail space uses contemporary elements combined with traditional design techniques, the Geneva-based brand said, noting that it is “an architectural perspective that reveals the brand’s constant search for excellence and aesthetic perfection.” The materials and color scheme provide “a warm and comfortable atmosphere dedicated to technical and precious haute horlogerie.”

The boutique will offer the entire range of collections from the Geneva-based brand, as well as exclusive boutique models.

“This opening is another milestone in the brand’s worldwide expansion and allows us to provide an experience that will enhance customer understanding of the brand and its longstanding history in haute horlogerie,” said Hugues de Pins, president of Vacheron Constantin North America.

Vacheron Constantin, established in 1755, is the world’s oldest continuous watch manufacturer.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page and on Twitter  @JewelryNewsNet. 

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