fiogf49gjkf0d
How does Vacheron Constantin define Fine Watchmaking?
Fine watchmaking is about beauty, quality, finishing, durability and service.
Vacheron Constantin released in SIHH 2014, the “Fabuleux Ornements” and new additions to the “Patrimony”, “Malte” & “Quai de L’ile” collections how was the feedback especially in the Middle East markets?
The feedback was very enthusiastic and positive from clients, retailers and press. Fabuleux Ornements is a showcase for what Vacheron Constantin does best, blending high watchmaking technicality with extremely refined “métiers d’art” to offer unique pieces of art.
Vacheron Constantin 2014 watches focused on open worked movements, why is that?
Vacheron Constantin masters the art of openwork and wanted to dedicate this year to this refined art. This is an extremely difficult art to master, because not only do the watchmakers remove more than 50% of the movement’s metal only leaving its skeleton, engravers will decorate that skeleton in such a manner that will make the timepieces look beautiful and different depending on the light angle.
Vacheron Constantin will celebrate its 260th anniversary next year, will you hold any celebrations or launch special releases on this occasion?
There are many things planned related to timepieces and events, but you will have to wait for SIHH 2015 to know more about it.
Your brand will participate once again at the upcoming Jewellery Arabia exhibition to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain soon. What is your assessment of this participation?
It is always a pleasure to participate in JA as this yearly exhibition allows us to present our latest novelties and meet with the region’s collectors and watch aficionados.
SIHH 2015 is only a couple of months away, please can we have a sneak peek on what will Vacheron Constantin provide its clients around the world?
Unfortunately I cannot disclose any details of this very special SIHH for Vacheron Constantin, but I can assure you it will be worth the wait.
How important is the Middle East consumer market for Vacheron Constantin and how do you rate its current potential?
The Middle-East is today an active market that is growing fast, but it has always been a very important market for the brand.
How is Vacheron Constantin doing on the Middle Eastern markets? Can we talk figures?
Vacheron Constantin is growing fast in the region, as collectors and clients are appreciating the exclusivity of the brand as well as the quality and finishing beauty of our timepieces. I am sorry but I cannot disclose figures.
You have recently taken over the retail operation in the UAE at the MOE, do you have any plans to develop your retail distribution further in the UAE? Please tell us about your new opened boutiques at the MOE?
Taking over the retail operation in the UAE is a milestone for the brand in the region. We have re-opened our boutique in Mall of the Emirates after a full renovation showcasing the brand’s latest retail concept, a fully trained team and a wide range collection, including limited editions and high complication timepieces. We offer full range of service from after sales service to bespoke timepieces through the “Atelier Cabinotiers” department.
This is just the beginning as we are planning two more boutiques in the UAE in the next 3 years.
What are the possible challenges confronting Vacheron Constantin in the short and long term in the Middle East?
The biggest challenge is offering our clients all over the region consistently the best high watchmaking experience and service. This requires continuous training of sales teams all over the region.
How do you see the use of new metal alloys in Haute Horlogerie? Does Vacheron have any plans to get its own metal alloy like other watch brands?
It is indeed very interesting. As far as Vacheron Constantin is concerned we have worked with many different metals in the past such as titanium and Paladium.
How does your brand look at Social media and how much do you capitalize on this media to reach your VC collectors and lovers?
Vacheron Constantin might be the oldest watch manufacture without interruption since 1755; however, it is very active online. We are convinced that social media is a very important medium of communication with the brand’s collectors and lovers. We have launched many years back our discussion forum “thehourlounge.com”, which became a must visit forum for watch aficionados. We are also active on facebook and more channels will be developed in the future.
Vacheron Constantin enjoys a long and rich history in the Middle East region. In your opinion, what makes VC unique in this region?
Middle-East clients are very demanding, mainly because they have excellent watchmaking knowledge and always want the latest and the most exclusive models. They know that Vacheron Constantin offers them the highest level quality and exclusivity.
What is your favorite Vacheron Constantin men’s and ladies watches?
This is a very difficult question as Vacheron Constantin has a wide offer. I like many watches, Patrimony, Quai de l’Ile, the Historique American 1921 and the ultra-fine 1955 , the latest Overseas blue dial and last but not least vintage chronograph pieces from the 30’s and 40’s, this is just to name a few.