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November 2011 - The “Hallmark of Geneva” gets a makeover and bets on the future! A genuine standard of excellence and an emblem of Genevan watchmaking, the “Hallmark of Geneva”, established in 1886 by the legislative body of the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, is a guarantee of origin, craftsmanship, durability and expertise. In this - its 125th anniversary - the world-renowned label is undergoing a fundamental change particularly in view of developments in the techniques and materials used in watchmaking.
Major change: from 2012, the certification will no longer apply merely to the movement, but to the watch in its entirety. The exterior appearance will also be taken into account. The manufacture of components and checks on all operations leading to the completion of the watch will henceforth be subject to more systematic and stringent controls, with a particular focus on whether the assembly, adjustment and casing are completed in Geneva. Inspection of the finished watch also constitutes an integral part of the requirements for the Geneva label. New checks are also to be applied to the water resistance, precision, functions and power reserve of each timepiece.
As underlined by Daniel Favre, President of the Foundation Council of TIMELAB – Geneva Laboratory of Horology and Microengineering that hosts the certification, “The ’Hallmark of Geneva’ is undergoing an evolution that will give it even more standing. This sort of AOC is a true guarantee of quality whose boundaries are being enlarged so as to correspond as closely as possible to customer expectations for Fine Watchmaking pieces.”
Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and President of the “Union des fabricants d'horlogerie de Genève, Vaud et Valais” (UFGVV), also emphasises the value of the “Hallmark Of Geneva” for the watchmaking sector: “In an industry imbued with authenticity, and amid uncertain times propitious to genuine values, a clear, precise, transparent and intelligible label is naturally a key asset. It provides companies with an assured means of protecting and preserving their expertise, as well as perpetuating the crafts related to the world of FineWatchmaking.”
www.timelab.ch
Photo-captions: - The “Hallmark of Geneva” celebrates its 125th anniversary
- The “Hallmark of Geneva” certificate of origin
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November 2011 - Vacheron Constantin wins the 2011 CCIG Prize On Thursday November 3rd 2011, before an audience of over 800 people gathered in Geneva’s Palexpo Congress Centre, Vacheron Constantin CEO Juan-Carlos Torres officially accepted on behalf of all company employees the 2011 CCIG Prize awarded by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services. Officiating in the ceremony were Pierre-François Unger, State Councillor in charge of the Department of Regional Affairs, Economy and Health; François Naef, President of the CCIG, and Jacques Jeannerat, Director of the CCIG.
For the 9th consecutive year, this prize rewarded a Geneva-based company having contributed to enhancing Geneva’s reputation by its dynamism, its open-minded spirit and its innovation. This year, the CCIG chose Vacheron Constantin for “its high degree of technological progress and innovation, the dynamism of its strategy, its active support for watchmaking training, its healthy financial governance, and its contribution to the international influence of Geneva. Vacheron Constantin embodies the beauty and complexity of the watchmaking profession, a profession where creativity, expertise and experience are indispensable.”
On this auspicious occasion, Jean-Carlos Torres commented: “It’s a great honour to be receiving today, on behalf of the personnel of Vacheron Constantin, the Prize awarded by the CCIG. […] Since 1755, ten generations of men and women have been successively perpetuating the values cherished by our founders. Thanks to them, Vacheron Constantin is daily writing new chapters in a profoundly human adventure and represents Geneva’s horological excellence at the highest level. ”
After the prize-giving ceremony, guests were able to admire Vacheron Constantin timepieces and to talk with a watchmaker and an engraver who were on hand to demonstrate their know-how.
Photos-captions : - François Naef, President of the CCIG, Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin CEO and Jacques Jeannerat, Director of the CCIG.
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October 2011 - VACHERON CONSTANTIN celebrates “A Journey into the time of MAHARAJAS” September 2011 to March 2012 - Vacheron Constantin is celebrating its association with princely India with an exclusive exhibition of rare photographs of Indian royalty, in collaboration with Tasveer, an organization dedicated towards showcasing some of the finest photographs from around the world and the leading photography gallery in India. The exhibition of portrait photographs, “A Journey into the time of MAHARAJAS” reflects an unmistakable aura of majesty of princely India, effortlessly and eloquently captured in captivating images. The complete range of the portrait photographs from the exhibition will travel across the Tasveer galleries in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Ahmedabad. “A Journey into the time of MAHARAJAS” exhibition will be complemented in Delhi and Mumbai with a captivating display of two extraordinary Vacheron Constantin timepieces dating back to 1909 and 1916, which have been a part of the collection of the Sovereign of Punjab, Sir Bhupindra Singh, Maharajah of Patiala. Presented for the first time in India, the two historic watches are a part of the “Treasures of Vacheron Constantin” housed in its Heritage Department in Geneva. These two outstanding pieces demonstrate Vacheron Constantin’s age long tradition of combining fine & decorative art with premium collectors' items. The watches on display include a perpetual calendar and moon phases pocket watch, with alarm and chronograph with minute counter; and a wrist watch bracelet, featuring an open worked and engraved case, embellished with bead-set diamonds and millegrain decoration.The watches beautifully illustrate the relationship and bond that Vacheron Constantin has enjoyed with India since the days of the Maharajas. - Delhi: September 25 – October 3, 2011 Photo-captions: |
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September 2011 - Vacheron Constantin Announces its first US Boutique, now open in New York Vacheron Constantin’s deep roots in New York make it the ideal place to open the first US boutique. It is the brand’s 28th boutique, following on from others such as Geneva (its birthplace), Moscow, Shanghai and Dubai. The location of the brand’s newest boutique in New York is a distinct historic location : the building, built in 1908, is the work of architect William E. Mowbrayand is reminiscent of the Palazzo Strozzi, a 15th century Florentine palace. Located on the southeast corner of Madison Avenue and 64th Street, it exemplifies the splendour of classic Italian art and expresses the brand universe in a truly exceptional location.
The choice of New York for the opening of a first Vacheron Constantin boutique in the United States is no coincidence, since this is a location carrying powerful symbolism. One hundred and eighty years ago, on September 17th 1831, Jacques Barthélémy Vacheron wrote a letter stating his intention to expand business to the US. Just one year later, in 1832, the company established its first agent in New York. By mid-century, business had taken off, helping Vacheron Constantin to take firm root in the United States and ushering in an era of close cooperation with New York.
The brand continued to grow and flourish in the 20th century. In the early 1900s, its timepieces could be found on the wrists of eminent personalities such as members of the Rockefeller family, Henry and William James, and Sydney Bechet. Archival records show that customized Vacheron Constantin timepieces were ordered by notable collectors as Henry Graves and James Ward Packard. The company took part in the New York World’s Fair in 1939. Presidents Harry Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower each owned a Vacheron Constantin, and in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, the brand was called upon to commemorate the first US expeditions into space. Reaching an exceptional milestone in 2005, Vacheron Constantin celebrated 250 years of history around the world with gala anniversary events held in 17 global cities, including New York.
The opening of the Vacheron Constantin boutique is all the more special thanks to an exhibition of remarkable historical timepieces related to the brand's American heritage. For the first time, the exceptional pocket watches of King Fouad, King Farouk and Mr. James Ward Packard will be exhibited together, alongside timepieces from the company's Museum in Geneva and private American collectors. The exhibit opens September 12th and runs through the end of October at the Vacheron Constantin boutique in New York. For more information, call + 1 (877) 701-1755.
Address : 729 Madison Avenue at East 64th Street New York, NY 10065  Photo-captions: - Pictures of the New York Boutique, 729 Madison Avenue at East 64Tth Street
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August 2011 - Vacheron Constantin unveils « The AMERICAN HERITAGE of Vacheron Constantin» an interactive online event, a first of its kind Vacheron Constantin, the world's oldest watch manufacture in continuous operation is launching The American Heritage of Vacheron Constantin, a groundbreaking interactive online event and the intersection of American history with the company’s 256-year history and the rich stories of its American collectors. The American Heritage timeline launch coincides with the opening of Vacheron Constantin’s first-ever US boutique, located in New York City at 729 Madison Avenue at East 64th Street, in the city’s “Gold Coast.”
The American Heritage of Vacheron Constantin will showcase untold stories of Vacheron Constantin’s nearly 180-year interaction with America, since the brand first officially arrived in 1832. The company’s historical narratives will be told using an extensive interactive timeline. The narrative will include famous Vacheron Constantin owners from the United States including Henry Graves, James Packard, Julia Ward Howe and many others.
In addition to the fascinating accounts pulled straight from the archives of Vacheron Constantin in Geneva, Switzerland, US based collectors and enthusiasts are invited to contribute personal anecdotes about their Vacheron Constantin timepieces. Interested participants will be invited to share the unique story of their timepiece, either before or after their acquisition of it. The submission will be featured as part of the timeline, and thus the owner and watch will become a part of Vacheron Constantin’s history in the United States.
Contacts in America :
For more information and submission guidelines, please contact:
Customer Concierge, Tel: 1 (877) 701-1755, email: concierge.us@vacheron-constantin.com For press inquiries, please contact: Jamie Williams, Tel: 323.272.4375, email: jwilliams@nikecomm.com
Photo-captions:
- 1824: Men’s Pocketwatch
- 1921: « American 1921 »
- 1938: The first Aluminium watch
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July 2011- A splendid opening celebration of the Manufacture’s exceptional watchmaking heritage exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore On June 23rd 2011, Vacheron Constantin celebrated the official opening of “Treasures of Vacheron Constantin: A legacy of watchmaking since 1755” exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore. The exhibition is the first grand public exhibition of the heritage of the world’s oldest watch Manufacture with a continuous history.
Graced by Guest of Honor (GOH), Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-At-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Singapore, distinguished guests were addressed by the GOH and Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, Chief Executive Officer of Vacheron Constantin. Joined by His Excellency Mr. Jörg Al. Reding, Switzerland Ambassador to Singapore, the exhibition was officially declared opened with an elegant ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests were then invited to tour the exhibition.
Designed like an initiatory journey into the world of the 18th century watchmaking artisans, visitors were made to travel back in time through the 180 exceptional pieces from the heritage of the Geneva-based Manufacture, displayed over more than 600 metres. The watches illustrate the evolution of watchmaking, its industry and its craftsmanship, from the 18th century to the present day.
Following the opening ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception followed by a Gala Dinner in the National Museum of Singapore. They were entertained throughout the evening with magnificent performances including two live opera recitals by award winning Swiss Soprano, Rachel Harnisch.
Photo-Captions :
- Juan-Carlos Torres, Chor Lin Lee, Hairani Hassan, Professor Tommy Koh, Jörg Al. Reding, Julien Marchenoir
- Juan-Carlos Torres, Chor Lin Lee, Professor Tommy Koh
- Pr Tommy Koh and the craftsmen (master guillocheur, master engraver, master gem-setter, master watchmaker).
- The Exhibition
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July 2011 - Vacheron Constantin presents its “Montre Colombes”, a unique piece in support of the “Only Watch 2011” charity auction One of the most prestigious watch brands in the world has once again answered the call of the AMM (Monegasque Association against Muscular Dystrophies). The “Only Watch” charity auction organised by the AMM will take place on 23rd September 2011 in Monaco. The watches offered will all be unique pieces or limited editions.
This year Vacheron Constantin’s unique piece, based on a drawing by Maurits Cornelis Escher, brings together several of the Manufacture’s artistic crafts: engraving, enamelling, gem-setting and guillochage. This watch - Métiers d’Art Perspectives d’Art “Colombes” – isinspired by the technique of patterned tiling to evoke a poetic flight of doves. Its dial adopts notions of geometry, symbol recognition and motion, subtly interweaving them in several layers of perception and interpretation. Beating with precision inside the case is a self-winding movement, the Vacheron Constantin Calibre 2460, stamped with the prestigious Geneva Seal. This unique piece is exquisitely hand-finished in keeping with Geneva’s noblest Haute Horlogerie traditions and offers a new interpretation of time and art.
Photo-captions:
- Métiers d’Art Perspectives d’Art “Colombes”, unique piece for Only Watch 2011, charity auction organised by the AMM (Monegasque Association against Muscular Dystrophies). Engraving on the back of the case “Only Watch 2011” and “Pièce unique”.
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June 2011 - New York Christie’s auction yields an exceptional result for a Vacheron Constantin watch from the Packard collection The auction held by Christie’s in New York confirmed Vacheron Constantin’s strong appeal to international collectors. During this sale in which bidders from around the world displayed a keen interest, the Geneva-based House distinguished itself by setting an absolute record for the pocket watch made for James Ward Packard (1863 – 1928), the famous American automobile manufacturer and devotee of Haute Horlogerie watches. He was one of first American collectors to work directly with the Geneva-based watch manufacturer in order to build up a collection of unique timepieces.
Among the items by Vacheron Constantin that were up for bidding in New York, the 20-carat gold pocket watch (lot n° 100) proved to be the undisputed star of the auction by fetching 1,800,000 USD.
A truly exceptional result for an equally exceptional watch: in addition to displaying the hours, minutes and seconds beneath a rock crystal glass, this timepiece features a personalised combination of complications including hour, minute, quarter and half-quarter repeating, grande and petite sonnerie as well as a 30-minute chronograph register.
The magnificently adorned back of this piece featuring the monogram JWP on blue enamel was executed in Geneva following a sketch made by James Ward Packard himself. This elegant watch is in impeccable condition, having been preserved in the safe of a bank where it had remained untouched for the past 60 years.
Photo-captions :
- The Grand Complication pocket watch in 20-carat gold by Vacheron Constantin having belonged to the collector James Ward Packard.
Photo Credit : Christie’s |
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June 2011- An exceptional exhibition of Vacheron Constantin’s watchmaking heritage From June 24th to August 14th 2011, in collaboration with Vacheron Constantin, the National Museum of Singapore extends an invitation to discover the history of the Manufacture and that of Genevan Haute Horlogerie. The first major public exhibition on the heritage of the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in uninterrupted activity since its founding, the “Treasures of Vacheron Constantin - A legacy of watchmaking since 1755” sheds light on more than 250 years of creativity and know-how.
Conceived as an educational journey revolving around the spirit of the artisans cabinotiers of the 18th Century, the exhibition is an exploration of the evolution of the measurement of time, of its crafts and of artistic influences, a trilogy that defines the history of Vacheron Constantin since its foundation. The visitor travels back in time via 180 exceptional pieces from the heritage of the Manufacture in Geneva, in an exposition covering 600m2. From archived documents belonging to Jean-Marc Vacheron and Francois Constantin to particular watchmaking tools, and from the Genevan workbenches of the artisans cabinotiers to the machines invented by the Manufacture, the set design gives life to a technical and aesthetic universe of incredible richness.
Like an open book on the past and present, the pieces of the exhibit highlight the Métiers d’Art without which the Haute Horlogerie of Geneva would not shine as brightly. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a brilliant illustration of this truth: the pocket watch Les Bergers of Arcadia created in 1923 embodies in and of itself the alchemy of manufacturing know-how developed in the course of an endless quest for excellence. On location for several days following the exhibition’s opening, talented artisans of the Manufacture enthrall visitors with some of their secrets. Engraver, gem-setter, guillocheur, enameller and watchmaker showcase a know-how inherited from past centuries that continues to nurture constant creativity.
"This first major exhibition of ‘Treasures of Vacheron Constantin - A legacy of watchmaking since 1755' marks the start of a long journey into the cultural richness of our history, one that echoes that of Haute Horlogerie. A story that remains one of the finest demonstrations of a community working together, where every timepiece is the result of a symbiosis of talents and the extraordinary men and women who combine their expertise in pursuit of a common goal. It is our duty to share this heritage, representing an invaluable and lasting impression on history." Juan Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin.
“As this voyage unfolds, we realise that the extensive history of watch-making focuses not only on developmental and technical innovations, but also reflects the evolution of time, history in general, as well as trends and patterns in life”, Chor Lin, Director of the National Museum of Singapore.
You can also visit the website of the National Museum of Singapore Photo Captions: - Exhibition poster “Treasures of Vacheron Constantin – A legacy of watchmaking since 1755” - The National Museum of Singapore |
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April 2011 - Journées des Métiers d’Art in Paris: an inaugural reception honoured with the presence of world-famous personalities from the domain of Culture and Craftsmanship. As patron of the “Talents d’Exception” exhibition, Vacheron Constantin welcomed on Thursday, 31st March a hundred or so guests in Paris at the Moulding and Casting Gallery of the City of Architecture and Heritage, just opposite the Eiffel Tower.
The eminent guest roster included Frédéric Mitterrand, Minister for Culture and Communication, Frédéric Lefebvre, Secretary of State responsible for Handicraft, Jean-Michel Delisle, President of the INMA, as well as Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin. Also present were Alain Griset, President of the Permanent Assembly of the Chambers of Crafts and Craftsmanship and of the National Fund for the Promotion and Communication of Craftsmanship, Serge Nicole, President of the Atelier d’Art de France and the Honourable Senator Catherine Dumas.
In the course of this exhibition, guests were able to admire the work in different ateliers devoted to bottle-making, straw marquetry work, gilding, felt-making, textiles and haute couture, as well as the crafts of Art Deco cabinet-making, gold thread embroidery, lacquering, lithography, fan-making, watchmaking by a Vacheron Constantin watchmaker, the Genevese technique of Grand Feu enamelled miniature painting, and the maki-e technique exercised by a master lacquerer from the Zôhiko company, flown in specially from Kyoto for this exhibition.
On this occasion, Vacheron Constantin presented two new models in its Métiers d’Art collection. Firstly, a unique model in the Métiers d’Art “Chagall & L’Opéra de Paris” collection, dedicated to the work of P.I. Tchaikovsky. And secondly, a tribute to the ancestral Japanese art of maki-e with three new creations from the Métiers d’Art “La Symbolique des Laques” collection.
In his speech, Juan-Carlos Torres reminded listeners that the Geneva-based Manufacture is “dedicated to perpetuating a heritage and to passing on the human values that define its know-how”. Meanwhile, Frédéric Mitterrand expressed his delight in joining with Vacheron Constantin in “inaugurating this beautiful 'Talents d’Exception' exhibition which highlights the skills of these Masters of Art, of their Students, as well as of all the great artistic craftspeople of the Manufacture Vacheron Constantin, representing since 1755 a perfect example in the watchmaking field of the meticulous care and patience required for these crafts of excellence and refinement”. In his inaugural speech, he also thanked “this grand Manufacture for having agreed to be one of the main partners of these Days alongside the Ateliers d’Art de France and the Chambers of Crafts and Craftsmanship, and of having thereby contributed to the success of this event.”
As emphasised by Juan-Carlos Torres on the subject of this exceptional event: “the human hand is unequalled in its capacity to stir emotions…”
Photo captions :
- Alain Griset, Jean-Michel Delisle, Juan-Carlos Torres, Catherine Dumas, Frédéric Mitterrand, Serge Nicole
- Frédéric Mitterrand giving his speech
- The master lacquer artist from the Zôhiko company
- The master enameller
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April 2011 - Inauguration of a New Theatre in Spain: the Gran Teatro Auditorium Revellín, Ceuta On February 24th, Vacheron Constantin, in collaboration with its partner, “Chocrón Joyeros”, participated in the inauguration of Ceuta’s new Gran TeatroAuditorium Revellín, designed by architect Alvaro de Siza Vieira. A symphonic concert, played by the “Brandenburgisches Orchestra” and directed by Inma Shara, was followed by a reception and exhibition of the Vacheron Constantin 2011 collection.
Inma Shara is one of the most brilliant Spanish orchestra directors of the new generation. Very young and very talented, she has developed an extremely promising career and has already directed some of the world’s truly exceptional orchestras, such as the Israel Philarmonic, Britain’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. However, one of her most recent achievements has been conducting the concert held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights at the Vatican, attended by Pope Benedict XVI.
During the Inauguration of Ceuta’s new theatre and auditorium, the new Patrimony World Time piece was exhibited with other important pieces from the Vacheron Constantin collection, such as the Patrimony Traditionnelle calibre 2755, the Patrimony Traditionnelle openworked and the Historiques Ultra-finewatches. About 250 VIP clients had the opportunity to admire a total of 20 pieces of the Vacheron Constantin collection. The reception and exhibition were honoured with the presence of several Spanish dignitaries and celebrities. Photo-captions:
- The new Gran Teatro Auditorium Revellín in Ceuta, designed by the renowned Portuguese architect Alvaro de Siza Vieira
- The “Brandenburgisches Staatsorchester Frankfurt Orchestra” directed by Inma Shara
- Some of the beautiful Vacheron Constantin pieces on display
- Remedios Cervantes (ex-Miss España), Inma Shara & Anne Igartiburu (TV presenter)
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March 2011 - Vacheron Constantin, patron of the Journées des Métiers d’Art in Paris From the 1st to the 3rd of April, Vacheron Constantin is delighted to be lending its support as a patron of the Journées des Métiers d’Art (Artistic Craft Days) organised by the French National Institute of Arts and Crafts (INMA).
On the occasion of this exhibition, the Geneva-based Manufacture particularly wished to support the exhibition entitled Talents d’Exception. The exposition will be held in the magnificent Galerie des Moulages de la Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (Hall of Sculpture of the City of Architecture and Heritage), located in the centre of Paris.
During these three days, ten “Maîtres d’Art” (Art Masters) and several of their students will present some of their exceptional creations and will offer demonstrations of their skills to the public. Vacheron Constantin will be represented by two master exponents of the art of horology, a complications watchmaker and an enamelled miniaturist in enamels, as well as by a Japanese lacquer artist from the Zohiko Company partnering Vacheron Constantin in its Métiers d’Art “La Symbolique des Laques”. On the occasion of this exhibition, new timepieces from the Métiers d’Art Collection will be presented in exclusivity.
The Manufacture Vacheron Constantin pays tribute to the Zohiko house, which celebrated 350 years in existence in 2011, and to its artisans, who honour us with their presence. For nearly 100 years, Vacheron Constantin has had close ties to Japan. In 1917, Vacheron Constantin established business relations and delivered its first timepieces to Japan. In this difficult time, Vacheron Constantin extends its deepest sympathies and respect to the people of Japan, who are facing this unprecedented crisis with the unshakable dignity that characterizes them.
Photo-captions :
- “Journées des Métiers d’Art and Talents d’Exception” (Artistic Craft Days and Exceptional Talents) exhibition from April 1st to 3rd in Paris.
- Munenori Yamamoto, maki-e Lacquer
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2010 - Inauguration of the Vacheron Constantin boutique in Singapore This is the 27th Vacheron Constantin boutique in the world.
Vacheron Constantin opened its first exclusive boutique in Singapore on November 26th in the luxurious Marina Bay Sands shopping mall. In keeping with the aesthetic design of the historic Vacheron Constantin boutique located in the heart of Geneva, Switzerland, this new location provides a spacious 1,600 square feet area dedicated to watch connoisseurs and collectors. The warm and elegant interior mingles precious materials such as wood, marble and leather, while the welcoming, intimate and serene atmosphere faithfully reflects the brand’s spirit. In addition to after-sales service and a number of other services, the boutique also presents the entire range of collections from the Geneva-based Manufacture, as well as exclusive boutique models. Future customers will benefit from after-sale services as well as a wide range of additional services.
Photo-captions:
- From left to right: David Heng, Director, Vacheron Constantin South-East Asia; Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director, Vacheron Constantin Asia-Pacific; Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, Marketing Director; and Dominique Bernaz, Retail Director
- The Vacheron Constantin boutique in Singapore
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2010 - Vacheron Constantin and the National Opera of Paris On Saturday, November 20th Paris’ Palais Garnier played host to Vacheron Constantin, the oldest horological Manufacture in the world having enjoyed uninterrupted activity since its founding in 1755, as well as hundreds of the Manufacture’s esteemed guests for the much-anticipated 30th anniversary celebration of the AROP (Friends of the Paris Opera and Ballet). Presiding over the momentous occasion were Jean-Louis Beffa, President of the AROP, Nicolas Joel, Director of the National Opera of Paris, and Brigitte Lefèvre, Director of Dance, Representatives of Vacheron Constantin consisted of none other than Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, the International Director, and Jean-Yves di Martino, the Director of France for Vacheron Constantin.
Guests then had the opportunity to admire the Vacheron Constantin watch « Métiers d’Art – Chagall & l’Opéra de Paris» manufactured specifically for this event to celebrate the anniversary. This unique timepiece boasts a reproduction of remarkable detail and quality of the famous ceiling of the Opera painted by renowned artist Marc Chagall. This remarkable watch was realized using a traditional Genevan technique known as « Grand Feu », characterized by miniature painting on enamel, this meticulous process is specific to the Swiss city and passed down from generation to generation by masters of this art. After a global presentation of this unique watch, it will join the private collection of the Vacheron Constantin Maison.
To the benefit and pleasure of more than 1600 people, stars of the Paris Opera and divas from around the world offered an array of performances each more magnificent than the last. One cannot but mention Nicolas Le Riche who performed Ravel’s Boléro after enchanting the audience with a perfectly choreographed performance of Maurice Béjart, not to mention singer Nathalie Dessay who chose Lammermoor’s Air de la folie de Lucia and performed the piece exceptionally well.
Photo-captions:
- Jean-Louis Beffa, Juan-Carlos Torres, Frédéric Mitterrand and Bernard Stirn, The President of the Opera
- Mr. Jack Lang and his wife, Jean-Louis Beffa, Juan-Carlos Torres and Bernard Stirn
- The grand staircase of the Opera Garnier
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2010 - Vacheron Constantin wins the Public Prize On the evening of Thursday, November 18th, in front of an audience of 2000 people gathered in the Grand Théâtre de Genève for the 2010 Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix award ceremony, Vacheron Constantin CEO Juan-Carlos Torres accepted on behalf of the brand the Public Prize for its new Historiques Ultra-fine 1955 model.
The Historiques Ultra-fine 1955 is currently the world’s thinnest mechanical hand-wound watch, at just 4.10 mm thick. It is equipped with the legendary Calibre 1003 measuring a mere 1.64 mm thick and rebuilt in 18-carat gold for its 55th anniversary in 2010. Its slender 4.10 mm case measuring 36 mm in diameter is crafted in 4N 18-carat gold and tested at 3-bar pressure equivalent to a depth of 30 metres. It indicates the hours and minutes and has an over 30-hour power reserve. Black hand-stitched square-scaled alligator leather strap with 4N rose gold buckle and polished half Maltese cross
Photo-captions:
- Historiques Ultra-fine 1955
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2010 – Creation of ''Timelab'' TIMELAB – Foundation of the Geneva Laboratory of Horology and Microengineering – was officially unveiled in June 2010. The purpose of this centre for certification and Research & Development, which houses two of the most prestigious watch certifications, the Hallmark of Geneva and the Geneva Office of the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute), is to enhance the status of quality watchmaking by offering watch brands a range of services that meet the highest technical standards. It offers the expertise of a professional and recognised organisation and the creditworthiness of an official and independent laboratory.
Created in 1886 to protect the reputation of the name “Geneva”, the Hallmark of Geneva has always been and still is a guarantee of origin, a guarantee of workmanship, a guarantee of durability and a guarantee of exceptional savoir-faire. It is the symbol of the undisputable watchmaking prestige of Geneva.
Having successfully submitted its first model more than a century ago, Vacheron Constantin is one of the rare companies that have experienced the development of the principal requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva, from the inside and over the course of many decades, making it the historic brand of the Hallmark today.
To find out more about Timelab Photo caption : - Vacheron Constantin Calibre 2460 SCC, which has dual certification from the Hallmark of Geneva and COSC |
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2010 – Vacheron Constantin at Masterpiece London This June heralds the arrival of a new generation of fair, the eagerly-anticipated Masterpiece London, taking place at the former Chelsea Barracks from 24-29 June 2010, with a Preview on 23 June. Masterpiece London will showcase the very best pieces from around the world, combining an impressive range of covetable pieces from all areas of collecting.
At this pioneering fair Vacheron Constantin will be exhibiting fine timepieces, featuring high complications, decorative arts and exceptional craftsmanship. Among these outstanding pieces Vacheron Constantin will present their new limited edition Metier's d'Art Collection, La Symbolique des Laques, which features the Japanese lacquer technique of Maki-e.
Vacheron Constantin is deeply committed to handing down and developing the watchmaking trades, especially the artistic crafts and highly specialised decorative arts used in watchmaking, such as enamelling, engraving and gem-setting. Live demonstrations of such crafts will be available on site, an engraver will be present on 23rd and 24th, followed by an enameller on 25th and 26th and a watchmaker from 27th to 29th June.
Offering a diversity of excellence on an unprecedented scale, Masterpiece is the first fair of its kind to combine fine & decorative art with premium collectors' items. Vacheron Constantin were chosen to be part of this unique event as the environment reflects the values of the house and it’s commitment to arts and culture.
Photo-caption:
- Métiers d’Art La symbolique des laques
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2010 – Creation of the Barbier-Mueller Museum Cultural Foundation March 24th 2010 - Jean Paul Barbier-Mueller and Juan-Carlos Torres officially presented the creation of the Barbier-Mueller Museum Cultural Foundation with the support of Vacheron Constantin to an audience of special guests and journalists gathered at the Primitive Art Museum on Quai Branly in Paris. The purpose of this foundation is to bear testimony to the forgotten peoples and little-known cultures, and to provide international support for anthropological observatory missions, publications and conferences. Since its creation in Geneva in 1755, Vacheron Constantin has been loyal to a set of values, such as the quest for excellence, creativity, passing on know-how and openness to the world, which continue to forge its reputation and have enabled it to preserve its heritage and its future. Profound respect for these ethical principles has inspired Vacheron Constantin to support the Barbier-Mueller Museum over the past few years. This partnership has given rise to the noteworthy collection of “Métiers d’Art – Les Masques” watches, and expresses the brand’s attachment to the colourful tapestry of the human race, however diverse and remote. This project has already taken the form of sponsoring two studies that are about to be published. One was conducted by the Italian anthropologist Daniela Bognolo, a specialist on Burkina Faso, and deals with a “little-known ethic group”, the Kaan. Its publication is scheduled for September 2010. The second, carried out by Alain-Michel Boyer among the Wan, Mona and Koyaga peoples of central Ivory Coast, should be released by the end of the year.
Photo-captions:
- Jean Paul Barbier-Mueller and Juan-Carlos Torres
- Jacques Toubon, former French Minister of Culture
- Arnaud d’Hauterives, member of the Institut de France, perpetual secretary of the French Academy of Fine Arts
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2010 – USA : Collectors Dinner April 2010 - Vacheron Constantin hosted a private watch collectors event on Wednesday April 15th with Wempe Jewelers at Le Bernardin, world renowned chef Eric Riperts’ French-cuisine restaurant in New York City. Hugues de Pins, President of Vacheron Constantin North America and Ruediger Albers, President of Wempe Jewelers, invitedclients and watch connoisseurs to view an exhibition from the historic watch brand, “A Journey Through Time”. Vitrines housed timepieces from the Vacheron Constantin museum in Geneva to accordingly pay homage to the distinguishable decades of the 20th century. Among the collections, Vacheron Constantin displayed the innovative American 1921 reissued in 2008 and recent winner of the “Watch of the Year” Prize for 2009. Also on display were the recently launched “Ultra-Fine 1955” - residing beside the original ultra-flat wristwatch – and “Ultra-Fine 1968”. Models adorned exquisite diamond ladies timepieces while presenting guests with trays of timepieces from the Patrimony line.
Photo-captions: - Hugues de Pins’ speech
- Some timepieces are presented to the guests
- Hugues de Pins, Ruediger Albers, and models
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2010 – USA : ''A Journey Through Time'' March 2010 - Vacheron Constantin and itsrenowned Los Angeles ambassador Westime, hosted an exclusive exhibition, “A Journey Through Time”, in an historic mansion in Beverly Hills on March 11, 2010. Hugues de Pins, President of Vacheron Constantin North America and Greg Simonian, Chief Operating Officer of Westime, greeted VIP clients and friends of the brand to showcase the traditions that have positioned Vacheron Constantin at the top of the watchmaking world for over 255 years. Vacheron Constantin and Westime transformed the home into an historical journey, displaying timepieces typically housed in Vacheron Constantin’s museum in Geneva. Among the historical timepieces, Vacheron Constantin displayed its Chronometre Royal pocket watch from 1907 reissued in 2007 in limited quantities. Also on display were the recently launched “Ultra-Fine 1955” - residing beside the original ultra-flat wristwatch – and “Ultra-Fine 1968”. Guests were mesmerized by the gorgeous timepieces, some worn by models, as well as the beautiful surroundings. The evening culminated with an exciting raffle that awarded one guest an exclusive trip to Vacheron Constantin’s Manufacture in Geneva, Switzerland.
Photo-captions:
- Magnificent décor by Vacheron Constantin
- The raffle winners
- One of the beautiful vitrines of Vacheron Constantin
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2010 - The Mastery of Excellence in watchmaking THE MASTERY OF EXCELLENCE IN WATCHMAKING
From the simplest to the most complicated
In its Dream Room at Pisa Orologeria, Milan, Vacheron Constantin will, between the 10th and 13th of March, be offering a journey through its collection to present that watchmaking excellence that has been the hallmark of all of the Manufacture’s creations for over 250 years.
The most significant of Vacheron Constantin’s watches will be on show, including limited-series timepieces and the latest articles from the recent Geneva Salon, premiered here for the Italian market.
From the apparent simplicity of the time-only models to the most complex grandes complications, and from the ultra-thin timepieces to such works of art as the Tourbillon Minute-repeater with Perpetual Calendar and the Tourbillon with Time equation, the Manufacture’s entire production is forever outstanding thanks to its heritage, comprising technical skills, aesthetic sensitivity and care for detail, which is still today continued and developed by the Manufacture’s master watchmakers.
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2009 – Vacheron Constantin honored by the 2009 UNESCO Monday, December 14, 2009, Shanghai - Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacture with more than 250 years of uninterrupted history, has been honored with an Award of Merit decerned by the 2009 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation program for the exceptional restoration of its Mansion in Shanghai - 796 Huai Hai Lu.
The Vacheron Constantin Mansion in Shanghai staged its Grand Opening in October 2008 to propagate the Brand’s centuries-old tradition in high-end watchmaking. Today, it represents the spirit of heritage and tradition in the Vacheron Constantin Mansion through the architecture, antique clocks, showroom timepieces and thematic exhibition, to deliver the true significance of time and to unveil the real allure that art has given time.
Dating back to the 1920s, the neo-classical twin villas at 796 Huai Hai Lu, were built by comprador Mr. Jiang Bing Sheng. The first villa, on the east side, was built in 1921, and its twin on the west in 1927. During renovation process, little has changed about the elegant garden houses: they have been lovingly restored with great attention to detail, right down to the original staircase and stained-glass windows, reviving the sumptuous heritage architecture, Mr. Filippo Gabbiani and Mr. Andrea Destefanis, chief architects of Kokaistudios, bestow life and soul to these buildings.
Photo-caption:
From left to right: Mr.Filippo Gabbiani, Chief Architect of Kokai Studios, Ms.Beatrice Kaldun, Programme Specialist for Culture, UNESCO Office Beijing, Mr. Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director, Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific
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2009 – Vacheron Constantin and Pisa Orologeria Milan, October 21, 2009 The Vacheron Constantin Dream Room was inaugurated today at the Pisa Orologeria fine watch boutique on Via Verri (at the corner of Via Montenapoleone 9) in Milan.
The Dream Room is the exclusive showcase for the prestigious collections produced by the Geneva watchmaker that Pisa Orologeria has been presenting for decades to its customers who are true connoisseurs of haute horlogerie.
The Pisa family, which has always had a passion for luxury watches, is known for its careful selection of only the finest brands for customers. These are just some of the traditional values behind this solid company that enjoys long-standing partnerships with the world’s most prestigious watch brands.
The relationship with Vacheron Costantin is a fine example.
Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch Manufacturer that has been in business for more than 250 years. The company handles all aspects of the production process in-house: research and development of the movements, design of the models, and the production of all components, finishing and assembly. Highly skilled master watchmakers pass on and perform ancient watch-making techniques such as beveling the corners of bridges and bottom plates, engraving the side sides, decorating components, and patiently assembling the watch by hand.
This outstanding production is the result of a continuous quest for excellence, creativity and innovation designed to amaze and thrill customers.
The Dream Room is the ideal place for presenting such superb creations.
The architectural project by architect Alexander M. Bellman – GRUPPO C14 and the interior design by Annamaria Conticelli for the new area of Pisa Orologeria blend functional aspects of contemporary store design and more dynamic elements that reflect today’s lifestyle.
The lighting system used by Pisa Orologeria in the display window and the Dream Room effectively highlights the quality of the showcased products.
The elegant ambiance was created for international customers who can select and try on the exclusive watches from Vacheron Constantin collections, browse through a catalogue or a book with historic images, imagine their customized watch and, at the same time, enjoy the warm welcome by the gracious host.
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2009 – Salon QP in London Vacheron Constantin is proud to be part of Britain’s first event of its kind dedicated to watch-making. Salon QP will be held by Britain’s leading watch magazine, QP, on 5th and 6th November 2009 at One Marylebone in London and will feature exhibitions and demonstrations of only a few prestigious watch manufactures. Vacheron Constantin will have a master watchmaker on hand revealing the fascinating skills and craftsmanship behind the dial. Some exceptional pieces will be displayed at the Salon such as Tourbillons, Perpetual Calendars, and Metier’s d’Art pieces.
For more information please visit http://www.salonqp.com
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2009 – Boutique opening in Hong Kong Vacheron Constantin Unveils its Exclusive Boutique at 1881 Heritage
Age-old Tradition Meets Contemporary Lifestyle
September 3, 2009, Hong Kong - Vacheron Constantin opened its exclusive boutique at “1881 Heritage”, the revitalized site of one of Hong Kong’s famous government buildings, in the presence of Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, and Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific.
This is Vacheron Constantin’s third boutique in Hong Kong. In line with the design aesthetic of its Vacheron Constantin Maison in Geneva, the new boutique makes an intimate and welcoming space for watch enthusiasts and collectors, displaying its exquisite timepieces in refined showcases. Adjacent to the retail and private sales area is the Customer Service Centre that, going far beyond traditional standards, offers after-sales services for wrist watch maintenance by a resident Swiss Watchmaker, previously only available in Geneva. This falls in line with the tradition of horological excellence to which the brand has always remained faithful.
Photo-captions:
The ribbon cutting ceremony with the presence of Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific, Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, and Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Hong Kong and China. Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, at the Grand Opening of 1881 Boutique. |
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2009 – Vacheron Constantin Boutique in Geneva: new address During the alterations on the bridges in l’Ile, Vacheron Constantin has the pleasure to welcome its clientele in its temporary boutique located at another famous address in Geneva: Place de Longemalle.
The patrimonial exhibition area of the Maison Vacheron Constantin in l’Ile remains open to the public by appointment only.
Vacheron Constantin Temporary boutique
1, place de Longemalle
1204 Geneva
Tel: +4122 316 17 40
Fax: +4122 316 17 41
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday
9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Saturday
9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday
Closed
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2009 – Les Masques: présentation of the third and final set A majestic launch for the last four creations in the “Métiers d’Art Les Masques” collection
As a privileged partner of the Barbier-Mueller Museum since 2007, Vacheron Constantin naturally decided to support the exhibition “African and Oceanic Art from the Barbier-Mueller Museum, Geneva: a Legacy of Collecting”, which is currently on show at the Metropolitan Museum of Art through September 27th 2009.
To mark the occasion, Vacheron Constantin organised an exceptional world-first evening event on June 2nd within the prestigious setting of the museum, where 250 guests were able to discover the last four horological masterpieces completing the “Métiers d’Art Les Masques” collection. After visiting the Barbier-Mueller exhibition, the delighted visitors moved through to the stunning Temple of Dendur Room. During the prestigious ensuing dinner, the third and last set of four “Métiers d’Art Les Masques” creations was then unveiled. Photo-captions: - 3 generations of the Barbier-Mueller family with Monique Barbier-Mueller, Mr & Mrs Gabriel Barbier-Mueller. In their sides, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin
- Ambiance
- The Master engraver at his workbench
- Temple of Dendur Room
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2009 – Creative Academy Creative Academy is an international post graduated school for design, opened in Milan, Italy, by Richemont under the aegis of Fondazione delle Arti e dei Mestieri (Foundation for the Applied Arts and Crafts).
The Creative Academy runs a Master of Arts in Design course, for 20 young people of international origin who have successfully completed a substantial course of studies in disciplines related to design. The Masters course aims to give young designers specialized training in the applied arts, and in particular in the field of jewellery, watchmaking and accessories.
The School has now reached its sixth year of activity obtaining considerable achievements: the main part of the students have found a job within the Brands of the Richemont Group.
To discover courses and activities please visit our web site www.creative-academy.com
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2009 - Symphony and elegance at Geneva's Victoria Hall On 1st April, Vacheron Constantin hosted over 1,000 guests at a private concert to celebrate its partnership with the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande (OSR - http://www.osr.ch). The programme of rarely played Latin works crowned an evening of musical discovery that combined talent, charm and joy.
Inma Shara conducted the OSR in front of a packed hall deeply moved by the magical grace of her baton. The works of Falla and Turina were played with a delicacy and charm that were heightened by the palpable rapport between the musicians and the young conductor. Those of Piazolla, interpreted by the celebrated solist Richard Galliano on his magical bandoneon, captivated the audience. The collective talent of the OSR, Inma Shara and Richard Galliano created an evening of pure emotion.
The evening continued at the Grand Théatre, where the guests were treated to a dance show exploring the different stylistic trends of the tango and directed by the talented choreographer José Castro.
Vacheron Constantin and the Arts, a veritable corporate culture that is mirrored in the Manufacture’s commitment to support the arts, and music in particular, and to contribute, through its partnership with the OSR, to the cultural dynamism of the region where it was born over 250 years ago.
Photo-captions:
- Inma Shara and Richard Galliano at Geneva’s Victoria Hall
- Geneva’s Grand Théâtre
- Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Metin Arditi, President of the OSR, Inma Shara and Richard Galliano
- Cocktail
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2009 - Lauching of the new Quai de l'Ile line in Hong Kong January 8, 2009, Hong Kong - Vacheron Constantin hosted an exclusive gala dinner at the Ballroom of the Four Seasons Hotel to celebrate the launch of the Quai de l’Ile collection, a unique dimension in the world of Haute Horlogerie.
More than 250 watch enthusiasts and watch journalists from the region, who were invited to share in Vacheron Constantin’s genuine passion in watch-making and experience the innovative personalization service that extends the boundaries in timepiece excellence and exclusivity.
Guests were immersed into a contemporary atmosphere that was designed and furnished especially to match the contemporary metropolitan themed Quai de I’lle Collection. Vacheron Constantin created one of the largest indoor video systems seen in Hong Kong for the launch of the new range of models, turning the room into an urban environment that allowed the audiences to travel around the world of Vacheron Constantin.
Photo-caption:
- Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Pansy Ho, Nicholas Loup and Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific Region
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2008 – 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Memorable evening with Vacheron Constantin at the Vatican’s celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The Vacheron Constantin manufacture is extremely proud to have given its support to the concert organised at the Vatican to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The concert was conducted by a woman, a first at the Vatican. On 10 December 2008 in the Paul VI auditorium, Inma Shara conducted Frankfurt’s Brandenburg State Orchestra with the highly talented pianist Boris Berezovsky and thrilled the audience with a varied and moving musical programme that covered works from Mozart to Ponchielli.
In front of an audience that included the President of the Italian Republic, Giorgio Napolitano, the mayor of Rome, Gianni Alemanno, the whole of the diplomatic corps, the entire Curia, the Director-General of the International Labour Organisation, Juan Somavia, and numerous political and business personalities, His Holiness the Pope Benedict XVI warmly applauded the musicians and thanked Vacheron Constantin for its support.
After the concert, Vacheron Constantin held a celebratory dinner at the Brancaccio Palace. The guests included the musicians and the watch company’s loyal customers as well as Cornelio Sommaruga, former President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, who had been given an award by the Vatican for his long contribution to international peace.
Photo-captions:
- The concert venue, the “Aula Paolo VI”
- His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI with Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO Vacheron Constantin
- Inma Shara directing the Brandenburgishes Staatsorchester Frankfurt
- Cornelio Sommaruga at the dinner organized by Vacheron Contantin after the concert
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2008 - Vacheron Constantin and the Opera National de Paris celebrate Béjart Tuesday 9th December- in Paris at the Opera Bastille, Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacturer, received as Sponsor of the Opera National de Paris, several hundreds guests for the Première of “Hommage à Maurice Béjart”, in presence of Gerard Mortier, Director of the Opera National de Paris and Brigitte Lefèvre, Director of the Dance as well as Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, International Director and Jean Yves Di Martino, Director of France.
Vacheron Constantin had the privilege and the honour to become last year the sponsor of the Opera National de Paris.
They divide an important common point: they hold an extraordinary artistic inheritance which they continue to cultivate and enrich everyday.
In front of a packed and expectant audience at the Opéra de Paris’ first tribute to Béjart since his death in November 2007, the company’s dancers performed two choreographies that have influenced the history of dance, L’Oiseau de feu and Le Sacre du Printemps
Among the guests, were the last Iran’s Empress Farah Pahlavi, but also Patrick Poivre d’Arvor, Victoria Abril, Samuel Le Bihan, Evelyne Bouix, Guy Bedos, Philippe Lavil, Emmanuel de Brantes, Gérard Holz, Nelson Montfort, Antoine Dulery, as well as Ulrich Lehner, Switzerland’s ambassador to France accompanied by his wife. After the representation, the guests were invited to the top floor of the Opera Bastille for a Vacheron Constantin’s private reception.
Photo-captions:
- Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Mme Lefèvre, Director of the Dance and the principals dancers of the Opera national de Paris, Jérémie Bélingard, Claire-marie Osta, Dorothée Gilbert et Benjamin Pech
- Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and victoria Abril
- Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO de Vacheron Constantin, Farah Phalavi and Gérard Mortier, Director of the Opera National de Paris
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2008 – The North American market honored For the world launch of the “Historiques American 1921” model, Vacheron Constantin will set up a temporary retrospective in its patrimonial exhibition area in the “Maison Vacheron Constantin en l’Ile”. . This exhibition is focused on the North American market and the unique creations made for it.
The visitors will discover pocket and wrist watches presenting specific elements of the North American market tastes of the beginning of the 20th century.
Furthermore, for the first time archival documents, such as correspondence signed by famous personalities such as writer Henry James or collector Henry Graves Jr will be presented to the public. Other testimonies of attachment to this huge market will also be exhibited.
With this exhibition, Vacheron Constantin will pay tribute to one of its oldest and most faithful clientele who has contributed since 1800 to its international reputation.
The temporary exhibition will take place from January 12th to end of June 2009 at the
Maison Vacheron Constantin en l’Ile
7, Quai de l’Ile
1201 Geneva
Photo-captions:
- 1939: "DRIVER" lady's wristwatch in 18K pink gold
- 1947: Aluminium pocket watch
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2008 - Successive Quai de l’Ile launches in Germany and Austria On 4 November 2008, Vacheron Constantin and its Munich ambassador, Wempe, on Maximilianstraße, invited over 60 VIP’s, clients, journalists and friends of the brand to celebrate the official German launching of the Quai de l'Ile at the Skylounge on the top floor of the contemporary Telecom building in Munich. The guests were driven there in a luxury, chauffeur-driven limousine and, while they were sipping their cocktails, were able to appreciate the breathtaking view over the rooftops of Munich. Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Product Marketing Director, was accompanied in his presentation by Roger Pfund, the internationally-recognized designer and expert who designed the Swiss passport and played an important role in designing the first sophisticated transparency effects and the security printing for the dials on the Quai de l’Ile watches. The guests were also given technical information about the development and creation of the collection that they were able to discover for themselves when they designed their own personalised watches using an interactive design tool.
On 12 November, in Münster, north Rhine-Westphalia, Vacheron Constantin and its ambassador Freisfeld organised an evening for over 80 VIP’s and friends of the brand to celebrate the official presentation of the Quai de l'Ile. It took place at the former fire station, “alte Feuerwache”. This extraordinary building belongs to one of Münster’s most celebrated citizens, the publisher Mr Hölker, who has kept the original interior. This gave the event a lot of atmosphere.
On 20 November, Vacheron Constantin and its ambassador Bücherer celebrated the Quai de l'Ile in Frankfurt. Over 40 guests were invited to the event, which was held in a most unusual place, Frankfurt Airport’s private club. Usually reserved for statesmen, members of royal families and other passing dignitaries, it reflected perfectly the contemporary hi-tech side of the new collection. The presentation took place on the ninth floor, which overlooks the main runway of one of the world’s largest airports. This elegant and cosmopolitan setting was the perfect venue for the guests to discover the Quai de l'Ile watches and design their own personalised model.
28th of November in Vienna, 120 guests of Wempe and Hübner celebrated the introduction of Quai de l’Ile on the Austrian market. On the 21st floor of the event location “Wolke 21”, Mr Juan-Carlos-Torres - CEO of Vacheron Constantin - Mr. Hübner - Owner of the Ambassador Hübner - and Mr. Pelz - Managing Director of the Ambassador Wempe Vienna, welcomed the guests who enjoyed not only the beautiful view over the illuminated city of Vienna, but also the animated Quai de l’Ile films that were shown during the cocktail.
Photo-captions:
- The Freisfeld family with Mr and Mrs Hölker
- Guests designing their own watch
- Mr. Knop, Vacheron Director for Northern Europe, presenting the new Quai de l´Ile collection
- Guests sharing their own experience
- Mr. Hübner, Owner of the retailer Hübner, Mr. Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and Mr Pelz, Managing Director of the retailer Wempe |
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2008 – Arabic Poetry Contest Awards Ceremony in Dubaï Young Poetic Talents from Gulf Cooperation Council & Jordan honored for the second Edition of the Vacheron Constantin Arabic Poetry Contest Awards Ceremony 2008 in Dubaï
For the second consecutive year, Vacheron Constantin organized the Awards ceremony – 12th November, 2008 - at the American University in Dubai to honour the winners of the second Vacheron Constantin Arabic Poetry contest for Young Poetic Talents in the presence notably of the UAE Minister of health, Mr. Humaid Mohamed Obeid Al Qutami and the Secretary General of the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare, Mr. Ebrahim Abdel Malek.
ِAfter the success of last year’s edition, the contest welcomed for this session, participants not only from the U.A.E, but also from all over the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan.
The contestants were university students, who were given an opportunity to showcase their talent in classical or contemporary Arabic poetry. Commemorating this, a book including a selection of the best poems was published and distributed during the event.
The winner in the classical category was Ashraf Bin Hamad Al Assimi from Sultan Qabous University, and in the contemporary category, the winner was Mohammad Sbeei, a Saudi national from Qatar University.
H.E Mr. Humaid Al Qutami presented the awards to the participants and Mr. Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, offered each of the winners a Vacheron Constantin timepiece especially engraved for this special occasion.
Photo-captions:
Rola Al-Haj, Sales and Marketing Manager of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, Intenational Director of Vacheron Constantin, Ashraf Al Asimand, Classical category winner and Mr. Humaid Mohamed Obeid Al Qutami, Minister of health.
Mohammed Sbeei, Contemporary category winner, Marc Guten, Intenational Director of Vacheron Constantin and Mr. Humaid Mohamed Obeid Al Qutami, Minister of health. |
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2008 – Presentation of the Quai de l’Ile collection in Zürich Monday 10 November 2008: Vacheron Constantin and its partner Türler organised the first official presentation of the Geneva-based manufacture’s new Quai de l’Ile line in Zürich at the Hotel Savoy Baur.
The development, creation and design team at Vacheron Constantin attended the event, delighting the connoisseurs present with details and anecdotes. The reception went on until late in the evening, giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy this special occasion to the full.
With the help of an impressive technical tool, the guests were able to experiment creating personalised watches. To help explain this unique new concept in the field of Haute Horlogerie, several configuration posts, exclusively developed by Vacheron Constantin, were set up for the occasion, along with explanatory interactive material providing exploded views of all the components.
Photo-captions:
- Christian Selmoni, Product Marketing Director of Vacheron Constantin, presenting the Quai de L’ile watch
- Configuration of a Quai de L’ile watch
- Interactive tablet
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2008 – Vacheron Consantin wins the “Men’s Watch” category prize The Quai de l’Ile watch from Vacheron Constantin wins the “Men’s Watch” category at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie of Geneva 2008
On Thursday 13th November 2008, Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin’s CEO, received the Jury Prize in the “Men’s Watch” category for its new model the Quai de l’Ile Day-Date & Power Reserve Self-winding.
The award was made in front of an audience of 2000 people at the Grand Théâtre of Geneva. In his reception speech on behalf of the brand, Juan-Carlos Torres said: “By its decision to give first prize for the Men’s Watch to Vacheron Constantin for its Quai de l’Ile, the jury of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie of Geneva has rewarded and honoured the brand’s innovative and pioneering spirit, a spirit that is still intact after 250 years of accumulated savoir-faire.
I thank the jury for its decision and would like to share this prize with all our colleagues at Vacheron Constantin. All of them, at every level, have given their vital support to this unifying project and have taken up the ambitious challenge to present this new collection of watches that are personalised in accordance with our clients’ wishes.”
The new Quai de l’Ile line from the Vacheron Constantin Manufacture introduces a unique dimension in the world of Haute Horlogerie.
It is thanks to the case and its remarkable seven-piece middle that this resolutely contemporary watch can be personalized. Other innovative features include a dial incorporating a whole range of horological and Security Printing technologies, a choice between two self-winding mechanical movements stamped with the Geneva Hallmark and designed and developed by Vacheron Constantin, and accessories comprising a box, a passport, a USB key and multimedia elements. Breaking new ground in the world of watchmaking, this product combines cutting-edge technologies with the finest horological expertise to provide personalization, security, service, fine workmanship and savoir-faire.
Photo-caption:
- Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin’s CEO, receiving the « Men’s Watch » category prize from Miss Romandy
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2008 - Gala evening for the opening of the Maison Vacheron Constantin in Shanghai On 17 October 2008, over 900 people crossed the threshold of 796 Huai Hai Lu for a gala evening to celebrate the inauguration of the second Maison Vacheron Constantin in the world and the first Dunhill Home in China, each housed in a colonial-style villa from the Decorative Arts period.
The Maison Vacheron Constantin is tucked away in the heart of the former French concession - Huai Hai Lu used to be called Avenue Joffre – and the guests found themselves in a haven of peace and simple splendour. Built in 1921 and lovingly restored to its original condition, it was designed, like the one in Geneva, to welcome the brand’s watch-loving friends in a warm, discreet and luxurious setting. On this unique occasion, the métiers d’art cherished by Vacheron Constantin were given pride of place, with an engraver, enameller and master watchmaker on hand to demonstrate, as they do at watch shows, their technical and aesthetic expertise on timepieces specially designed to celebrate this new artistic and horological centre.
In tribute to the Roaring Twenties, a tap-dancing display and an exceptional light show of the Villas were two of the evening’s highlights.
Also housed in the Villas are the highly exclusive Kee Club, a very popular gastronomic destination, and the ShanghArt gallery, a renowned centre for contemporary art in Asia, making the inauguration of the Maison Vacheron Constantin at this new upmarket address, 796 Huai Hai lu, one of the most magnificent events on the Shanghai social calendar for a long time.
Photo-captions:
- Inauguration of Twin Villas : from left to right, Marc Guten International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Odette Constantin, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Jean Constantin et Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific Region
- Vacheron Constantin Mansion
- Light performance
- Inside view of the Vacheron Constantin Mansion
- Vacheron Constantin engraver at her workbench
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2008 – Vacheron Constantin launches the Quai de l’Ile line in New York On 22 October 2008, Vacheron Constantin launched its Quai de l’Ile collection in New York at the IAC Building, designed by the architect Frank Gehry. This bold, sophisticated and resolutely contemporary line is now available in the United States. Throughout the evening, interactive screens projected on a wall over 37 metres in length underlined the personalised dimension of the collection’s timepieces.
Among the 300 guests invited were artists, writers, architects and well-known journalists, as well as leading Hollywood stars like Oscar-winning Susan Sarandon, Kate Bosworth and Lindsay Price. A private concert by Ne-Yo, frequent winner of the Grammy platinum award, received a particularly enthusiastic ovation.
To commemorate the evening, Vacheron Constantin welcomed the architect Richard Meier, the author Salman Rushdie, and the television news presenter Charlie Rose, who created watches in gold, palladium and titanium respectively for a charitable organisation in aid of under-privileged children. The opportunity to create their own watch by playing an active part in choosing the materials for the components was an unforgettable experience for all the guests.
Photo-captions:
- Quai de l’île launch Animation
- From left to right : Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America, Oscar Award Winner Susan Sarandon et Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin
- Kim Raver and Lindsay Price, stars of Lipstick Jungle
- Marc Guten, Richard Meier, Sonia Cole, Charlie Rose, Salman Rushdie and Julien Tornare
- Private concert of Ne-Yo
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2008 - Vacheron Constantin introduces its new Quai de l’Ile collection in Moscow Vacheron Constantin launched its collection, the Quai de l’Ile, on October 15, 2008 at the Vacheron Constantin Boutique in Moscow. Throughout the evening, guests were able to admire the craftsmanship of each fine timepiece and create their own models thanks to an interactive animation. Customized to meet every one of the client’s wishes, this resolutely contemporary watch combines the most advanced security printing technologies and the finest horological savoir-faire on its sophisticated transparent dial.
During the inauguration of the collection, a famous Moscow artist gave a private sand-show especially created and dedicated to the Quai de L’Ile collection. Her amazing performance left everyone breathless. And Quai de l’Ile music, specially composed for the occasion, entertained the celebrities & VIP guests.
Photo-captions:
- Vacheron Constantin Moscow Boutique
- Guests personalizing their watch
- Cocktail
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2008 - Unforgettable concert with Inma Shara in Taipei to celebrate the Patrimony line Inma Shara received a huge ovation at the private concert organised by Vacheron Constantin on 1st October 2008 at Taipei’s National Concert Hall.
Over two thousand people applauded the young Spanish conductor of the prestigious National Symphonic Orchestra of Taiwan, which was accompanied on this occasion by the pianist Ching-Yun-Hu, the 2008 winner of the Arthur Rubinstein competition. Their combined talent and the programme’s romantic and Spanish repertoire wowed the audience.
Vacheron Constantin has chosen Inma Shara to conduct several of its private concerts to honour the Patrimony, a timeless, classic line and the brand’s distinctive signature.
This partnership pays tribute to the aesthetic and technical excellence that governs the creation of the line’s timepieces and is expressed through the conductor’s baton with the same desire to always do better and reach the firmament of watchmaking precision and musical interpretation. A disciple of Zubin Mehta, Inma Shara exercises her art with extraordinary emotion, a subtle combination of technique and the heart, expertise and intuition. In her ongoing quest for perfection, who better to embody the expertise and enthusiasm so cherished at Vacheron Constantin?
For more than a quarter of a century, Vacheron Constantin has been a key player in uniting time and art. Such alchemy inevitably brought the worlds of Vacheron Constantin and music together.
Photo captions:
- From left to right: Ching-Yun-Hu, solo pianist, Inma Shara, conductor, and Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin
- Interior of Taipei’s National Concert Hall
- The National Symphonic Orchestra of Taïwan, conducted by Inma Shara
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2008 - In Germany, Vacheron Constantin sponsors a concert of Young Musicians On the 26th of September Vacheron Constantin and the association ”Friends of Young Musicians Munich” celebrated their first common concert presenting precious timepieces of the world’s oldest watch manufacture.
The association “Friends of Young Musicians Munich” supports since 1981 highly gifted young musicians who have the vocation to enrich the society with their musical talent. Vacheron Constantin had the pleasure to join this event as a main sponsoring partner. The interplay of art and time builds up the framework for the encounter between Vacheron Constantin and classical music.
This classical concert took place in the historical Allerheiligen church in downtown Munich where 400 guests were invited to enjoy a solo- and double concert of various young musicians, virtuous during the first half and classical with Mozart and Beethoven after the interval. All selected musicians completed their studies in master-classes at German universities and have proven their extraordinary talent during international competitions. The famous Volker Schmidt-Gertenbach director conducted this concert in which an exclusive Vacheron Constantin watch exhibition was embedded.
Photo-captions:
- Joung soprano singer
- Joung transverse flute player
- View from the gallery
- The garden from the Allerheiligen-Kirche
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2008 – Vacheron Constantin supports the Swiss foundation Rheumasearch Every day, rheumatismal diseases affect people working in the watchmaking industry to varying degrees. Diseases that affect the hand in particular, whether they be degenerative (osteoarthritis) or linked to rheumatoid polyarthritis, can be particularly incapacitating for watchmakers and craftsmen working in watch Manufactures. Rheumasearch is a foundation that was created in 2007. Its name combines two contractions of the terms Rheumatology and Research. Its objective is to support clinical and fundamental research carried out in the Rheumatology Departments of the University Hospitals in Geneva and the Rheumatology Laboratory of the Genevan Faculty of Medicine. The Rheumasearch Foundation, which has been recognised as a public utility foundation and is equipped with a scientific committee of internationally-renowned experts, supports researchers by funding their expenses, training costs and purchase of materials. Sensitive to this useful cause, Vacheron Constantin has decided to provide financial support to the Rheumasearch Foundation for its research projects in rheumatology. The men and women employed by Vacheron Constantin, the oldest watch Manufacture in the world to have continued its activities without interruption since 1755, have always concentrated on the creation and consolidation of a tradition of excellence that is at once technical and aesthetic. Their timepieces feature hand-crafted finishes of exceptional quality, which bear incontestable witness to this. Vacheron Constantin nurtures this unaltered hand-crafted approach on a daily basis, emphasising the essential role of the craftsman’s touch, the experience of an “expert hand” and the expertise and wisdom of man, whether he be a watchmaker, designer, engineer, engraver or enameller. Thanks to these craftsmen, the finest Genevan watchmaking traditions are perpetuated within the company, from generation to generation. This essential transmission of expertise is sustained by Vacheron Constantin and accompanied by the brand’s values relating to solidarity and humanism. It is in this perspective that the Vacheron Constantin Manufacture has chosen to support the Rheumasearch Foundation, in order to prevent infectious rheumatismal diseases that could affect, to varying degrees, its employees and, in particular, its numerous watchmakers and craftsmen. More information available at: http://www.rheumasearch.ch |
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2008 – Watch de Luxe Welcomes Vacheron Constantin in Hungary For the first time, Vacheron Constantin and Watch de Luxe celebrated the official introduction of Vacheron Constantin in Budapest, Hungary on September 10th 2008. |
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2008 – Boutique opening in Hong Kong Vacheron Constantin inaugurates a second exclusive boutique in Hong Kong On 10 July 2008, Vacheron Constantin opened its second executive boutique in Hong Kong, the tenth in Located on the prestigious The new Vacheron Constantin Boutique will offer the Manufacture’s complete collection, including the pieces of the new collection Quai de l’Ile as well as its personalized models. Mr. Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific and Mr. Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin China and Hong Kong shared this special occasion in the presence of Mr. Zhang Yuping, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Xinyu Hengdeli Group and Mr. Samuel Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Elegant Watch and Jewellery Company Limited, guests of honour at the opening ceremony. Photo-captions: - Ribbon cutting - Mr. Samuel Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Elegant Watch and Jewellery Company Limited, Mr. Zhang Yuping, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Xinyu Hengdeli Group, Mr. Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific, Mr. Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin - Model presenting the Kalla watch - Toast with the guests of honour |
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2008 - Barbier-Mueller exhibition at the Jacquemart-André Museum in Paris Vacheron Constantin celebrates the Barbier-Mueller exhibition at the Jacquemart-André Museum in Paris
In 2007, Vacheron Constantin and the Barbier-Mueller Museum undertook a joint project to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva and the launch of the Métiers d’Art Les Masques collection by Vacheron Constantin. The brand is now again supporting the museum for its one-off Parisian exhibition entitled “Art of Africa and Oceania, highlights of the Babier-Mueller collection”. Hosted by the Jacquemart-André Museum in Paris from March 19th to August 24th 2008, the exhibition was inaugurated on March 18th. To mark the occasion, Vacheron Constantin invited numerous guests who enjoyed the opportunity to discover these works drawn from the worlds’ largest private collection of primitive art and imbued with striking beauty, power and mystery.Mr. Jean Paul Barbier-Mueller, Vacheron Constantin CEO Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin International Director Mr. Marc Guten and Director for Vacheron Constantin France Mr. Jean-Yves Di Martino, welcomed 350 delighted and enthusiastic guests including the Swiss Ambassador to France Mr. Ulrich Lehner and his wife, along with former Minister of Culture Mr. Jacques Toubon and his spouse.
During this inaugural evening, guests were able to view the four precious timepieces from the Métiers d’Art Les Masques that were exhibited alongside the original masks from the Barbier-Mueller collection that inspired them. They also admired the exceptional work of the master-engraver, Mr. Olivier Vaucher, who was seated at his workbench crafting the miniature mask reproductions featured in the collection. This festive evening culminated in a dance performance evoking the four continents from which the primitive arts originated.
Photo-captions:
Glimpse of the mood of the evening
Mr and Mrs Jean Paul Barbier-Mueller, Mr and Mrs Jacques Toubon and Mr Juan-Carlos Torres
Mr Juan-Carlos Torres and Mr Marc Guten in front of one of Vacheron Constantin's showcase
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2008 - Beverly Hills welcomes the Métiers d’Art Exhibition For the first time, Vacheron Constantin presented its watchmaking arts and skills on the west coast of the United States, in Los Angeles between February 27th and March 1st. At Sotheby’s, in the heart of Beverly Hills, its craftsmen and women – an enameller, engine-turner, engraver and watchmaker – demonstrated their artistic talents and technical expertise. During these four days of intense activity, they shared their passion with a public who were given the unusual opportunity of trying their hand at the various crafts. The workbenches were surrounded by an exhibition area featuring an important collection of watches and tools from Vacheron Constantin’s heritage.
Just stone’s throw away, in the royal suite of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, was an exhibition of fours masks from the Barbier-Mueller collection, the largest primitive arts collection in the world. These masks were the inspiration behind the Métiers d’Art Masks Collection of watches, which were also on display with mirrors in which the original masks were reflected.
During the dinners organized each evening, Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America, Christian Selmoni, Product Marketing Director and Julien Marchenoir, Marketing-Communications Director, gave conferences on Vacheron Constantin’s long experience in the arts of watchmaking. Gabriel Barbier-Mueller and Laurence Mattet, representing the Barbier-Mueller family and museum respectively, joined in to help bring to life the magic of the masks that was present throughout these gatherings.
Photo-captions:
- Métiers d'Art exhibition at Sotheby's, Beverly Hills
- Guests discovering the masks
- Laurence Mattet, Director of the Barbier-Mueller Museum of Geneva
- Julien Tornare with guests
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2008 – Vacheron Constantin wins again in Dubaï February 2008 – Once again, Vacheron Constantin has walked away with the highly coveted “Best Men’s Classic Watch” Award at the Middle East Watch of the Year Awards in Dubai.
This award, one of 12 categories in the competition, was given to Vacheron Constantin for its Patrimony Contemporaine Bi-Retrograde Day Date, already voted Watch of the Year in Geneva, Switzerland.
Held each year by the watch and jewellery magazine Alam Assaat Wal Moujawharat, the Middle East Watch of the Year Awards selected Vacheron Constantin’s Patrimony Contemporaine Collection Excellence Platine for the same category last year.
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2008 – Vacheron Constantin inaugurates a second exclusive boutique in Beijing On 18 January 2008, Vacheron Constantin inaugurated its second boutique in Beijing, the 9th in China including Hong Kong. The event was attended by Messrs Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Yann Bouillonnec, Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific Region, and Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin China & Hong Kong.
Among the many personalities invited to the ceremony were Mr Kinson Eav, Executive Director of Asia Commercial Time City (Shanghai) Trading Co Ltd, Mr Tom Cheung, Leasing and Business Development General Manager of the Malls Tower Offices and Apartments, Mrs Chen Lihua, Deputy Director of the Palace Museum, Mr Wang Mengjin, Vice Chairman of the China Horologe Association, and representatives of the Swiss embassy in China.
In keeping with the Geneva-based company’s aesthetic philosophy, the new boutique offers an exclusive setting, intimate and welcoming, and dedicated to technical and precious Haute Horlogerie. It is simply decorated to highlight an architecture and interior design in harmony with the brand: precious wood, leather and furnishings that emit an atmosphere of confidence and serenity.
For watch lovers and collectors alike, this new Vacheron Constantin boutique offers the Geneva Manufactory’s entire collection, including the new Kalla Lune and 1972 Haute Joaillerie families as well as the Malte Tonneau Haute Joaillerie presented for the occasion. What is more, it offers the whole range of Vacheron Constantin services: changing a strap or bracelet, servicing a watch, giving advice or simply providing information on the world’s oldest manufacture, with over 250 years of uninterrupted activity behind it.
Photo-caption: From left to right: Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin China and Hong Kong, Kinson Eav, Executive Director of Asia Commercial Time City (Shanghai) Trading Co Ltd, Tom Cheung, Leasing and Business Development General Manager of The Malls Tower Offices and Apartment, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Yann Bouillonnec, Managing Director of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific Region and Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin
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2007 – New distinction for Vacheron Constantin’s Website At the end of 2007, Vacheron Constantin received yet another mark of distinction for the quality of its website, a Gold Award. This prize is offered within the framework of the Davey Awards, a competition in which international companies are given awards for the creativity and design of their websites. No fewer than 4,000 companies from around the world participated in 2007.
This was Vacheron Constantin’s fourth international distinction in this field. Its website is constantly evolving and among the many new features included in 2007 were the inauguration of “The Hour Lounge”, the first watch discussion forum open to the general public for those who love the brand in particular and Haute Horlogerie in general, the introduction of a mini-site for the launching of the exclusive Métiers d’Art Les Masques collection, and the launching of an on-line caretaker service for the North-American market.
In his response to this new award, Marc Guten, Vacheron Constantin’s International Director, said: “In less than two years, we have received four prizes in recognition of the excellent quality of our website. This is very gratifying as it justifies our choice of a dynamic and proactive strategy in this domain, our main challenge being to use the new technologies while preserving our image as a very traditional watch manufacturer. We had many projects this year. First and foremost, this prize is a reward for the effort and hard work put in by an entire team.”
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2007 – The magic of the masks unveiled at the National Palace Museum in Taïpei One evening this December, Vacheron Constantin unveiled its Métiers d’Art les Masques collection in Taïpei in the emblematic National Palace Museum, an important centre of traditional Chinese culture.
During the evening, over 400 guests had the opportunity to admire Vacheron Constantin’s magnificent watch creations as well as the masks that inspired them. These masks are part of the Barbier-Mueller collection, the largest private collection of primitive art in the world. The Barbier-Mueller Museum was founded 30 years ago in Geneva and its director, Mrs Laurence Mattet, attended the evening’s celebrations.
The evocation of the four continents from where these masks originated added an extra dimension to the evening’s entertainment, which transported the guests from one continent to another through the combined magic of song, music and dance.
The master engraver of the Métiers d’Art les Masques collection was on hand to demonstrate the art of engraving to the guests, who were deeply intrigued by an artistic technique particularly evident in the timepieces on display. This collection shows Vacheron Constantin’s strong commitment to perpetuating the crafts used in the art of watchmaking.
Photo-captions:
- Vacheron Constantin at the National Palace Museum
- Guests admire the work of the master engraver Olivier Vaucher
- Chistian Selmoni, Product Marketing Director of Vacheron Constantin, Olivier Vaucher, Master engraver and Laurence Mattet, Director of the Barbier-Mueller Museum
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin concert at the Gallery Tretyakov in Moscow On 28 November, at the Gallery Tretyakov in Moscow, classical music, paintings by Russian artists and Vacheron Constantin timepieces came together for one memorable evening. The guests were welcomed by Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Mr Marc Guten, Vacheron Constantin’s International Director, and Mr. Nicolas Deflers, Director of Vacheron Constantin Russia. Everyone then listened to the “Musica Viva” concert sung by Sine Bundgaard, the Royal Danish Opera House’s leading soprano, accompanied by the Russian Chamber Orchestra conducted by Alexandre Rudin. This magical evening closed with a cocktail party.
The guests included such Russian celebrities as Vladimir Pozner, Konstantin Remchukov, Alla and Vladimir Ruga, Ruslan Nigmatukkin, Andrei Rudenko, Alexander Smelaynskiy, Nikas Safronov, Inna Guinkevich, Ekaterinaand Alexander Strizhenov and their daughter, Mariana Maksimovskaya, and Andrei Boiko.
Photo-captions: - Mr Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO Vacheron Constantin and Mr Nicolas Deflers, Director of Vacheron Constantin Russia
- Mr. Nicolas Deflers, Director of Vacheron Constantin Russia, Mr. Vladimir Pozner, TV star, Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO Vacheron Constantin, Mrs Solovieva , producer and Mr. Marc Guten, Director International Vacheron Constantin
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2007 – First Edition of the Vacheron Constantin Arabic Poetry Contest Awards ceremony Dubaï, U.A.E. - Throughout its exceptional history, Vacheron Constantin has been devoted to culture, arts and discovery, and committed to searching for and promoting talent. To highlight its values and encourage young poets in the Middle East, the brand has created the Vacheron Constantin Arabic poetry contest.
To honour the winners, Vacheron Constantin organized an Awards ceremony at the American University in Dubaï on November 30,2007. It was held in the presence of Mr. Ebrahim Abdel Malek, Secretary General of the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare representing H.E Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development of the UAE, Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Mr Marc Guten, International Director and Mr Hugues de Pins, Director of Vacheron Constantin Middle East.
The ceremony commenced with a show that introduced the concept of Arabic poetry in a sensational ambience that merged live music and poetry with reflective theatre effects. Further, the jury members chaired by renowned poets and authors were honoured, then the show continued with the finalists reciting their poems, both in classical and contemporary categories, with pieces that depicted the aspect of “beauty” in the Homeland, Education and Love.
During his speech, Mr. Ebrahim Abdel Malek said “The initiative of Vacheron Constantin represents the appreciative intentions of consciousness and respect to the promotion of the cultural aspect of the society, presented in a concept that enlivens beauty in the human nature.”
Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin’s CEO, said: “The first Vacheron Constantin Poetry contest is a part of the brand’s initiative to impart knowledge to the young generations. Vacheron Constantin aims at encouraging young and promising poets, challenge and reward the best talents, and continue to develop new projects with them. The first Vacheron Constantin Arabic Poetry contest was a great opportunity to get the very heart of the creative and imaginative life force.”
The winner in the classical category was Najat Ateeq Al Thaheri from the United Arab Emirates University, and in the contemporary category Yousif Al Ali from the High Institute of legal and judicial science.
Mr. Ebrahim Abdel Malek presented the awards to the participants and Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres offered each of the winners a Vacheron Constantin watch especially engraved for the occasion. The ceremony concluded with applause from the members of the audience, each of whom left with a copy of the commemorative book.
Photo-captions:
- Contemporary Poetry Winner - Yousif Al Ali with Ebrahim Abdel Malek, Juan-Carlos Torres and Rola Al-Haj from Vacheron Constantin.
- Classic Poetry Winner – Najat Al Thaheri with Ebrahim Abdel Malek, Juan-Carlos Torres and Rola Al-Haj from Vacheron Constantin.
- Sara Humaid Khalifa.
- The show at the beginning of the ceremony.
- Khalid Al Qahtani.
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2007 - Vacheron Constantin presents the crafts of the watchmaking art in Zurich To present the various crafts used in the art of watchmaking to the Zurich public, Vacheron Constantin chose the Papiersaal, a former paper factory dating from 1886 and a centre for artistic expression.
The exhibition was opened on 15 November by Vacheron Constantin’s CEO, Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres in the presence of Mrs. Monique Barbier-Mueller. Over a period of three days, visitors were able to observe watch engravers, enamellers, guilloche-workers and makers of watch complications at work. An educational journey to the very heart of the brand, the métiers d’art exhibition gave its many visitors a glimpse into the world of the infinitely small and enabled them to appreciate the exceptional mastery displayed by Vacheron Constantin’s craftsmen. At the same time, it gave the craftsmen an opportunity to share their passion with the public in an informative and interactive exchange of information.
The focal point was the Métiers d’Art Masks collection, which was exhibited alongside the original masks from the Barbier-Mueller Museum collection. These had originally inspired the watches, showing once again Vacheron Constantin’s deep attachment to the world of the arts.
Photo-captions:
- Guests are experiencing the Métier of guillochage
- Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin with a guest the day of the inauguration
- The masks of the Barbier-Mueller collection
- Historic enamelling watches and tools on show
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin honors Platinum in New York city USA - New York, NY - Vacheron Constantin launched two new timepieces from its Platinum Excellence Collection on November 13 at the XChange in New York City. The event honored Clive Davis for his achievement in the music industry as a Multi-Platinum selling Record Producer and Executive. Mr. Davis has had unparalleled success in his career, which began at CBS, led to his foundation of Arista Records, and continues today as Chairman and CEO of BMG. Clive introduced his newest protégé, Academy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson - one of Barbara Walters “10 Most Fascinating People of 2007” -who then gave a special performance. Jennifer pleased the crowd by singing four songs, including tracks from her new album. She even allowed a guest to appear on stage with her to sing her hit song from Dreamgirls, “One Night Only”.
Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America also welcomed A-list celebrity Kate Bosworth. Celebrity DJ, DJ Cassidy was spinning some of Clive’s artists’ biggest hits and entertaining the crowd, when Jennifer Hudson was not performing. Guests throughout the evening viewed Vacheron Constantin’s newest platinum timepieces along with a collection of historical platinum timepieces, dating back to 1820, from the Vacheron Constantin Heritage Department in Geneva, Switzerland. Models dressed in custom-made platinum dresses circulated in the crowd with Vacheron Constantin current collection timepieces, giving guests a chance to touch, feel and see the handcraftsmanship of each fine timepiece.
Photo-captions:
- A general view of the evening
- Jennifer Hudson
- Kate Bosworth and Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America
- From left to right: Kate Bosworth, Clive Davis and Jennifer Hudson
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin presents a Tan Dun concert in Shanghai On 20 October, in the magnificent setting of the Shanghai Grand Theatre, Vacheron Constantin presented a marvellous concert created and directed by the internationally renowned composer and conductor Tan Dun, who conducted his two organic compositions, the Paper and the Water concertos.
More than 1,200 guests travelled from all over Asia to attend this unique event and were welcomed by Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin. It was also an opportunity for the manufacture to exhibit its Patrimony collection.
Vacheron Constantin is particularly happy to work with Tan Dun because this partnership is based on a mutual respect for tradition, innovation, open-mindedness, the transmission of expertise, and the encouragement of creativity.
Tan Dun was born in China. After working for two years in the rice fields during the cultural revolution and then as arranger for a provincial Peking Opera troupe, he spent eight years at the Central Conservatory of Peking. In 1986, he took up a fellowship at Columbia University and settled in New York, where he completed a doctorate in musical composition. Besides his classic compositions, Tan Dun is known for his experimental projects: music for ceramics, for water, for paper, and for stones. He also works with artists of other disciplines, choreographers and film directors, and interprets his own works as a soloist. His talent was rewarded in 2001 with an Oscar for the film music of Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
Photo-captions:
- Tan Dun and Mr Torres, CEO Vacheron Constantin
- The Shanghai Grand Theatre
- Inside the Shanghai Grand Theatre
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2007 - Vacheron Constantin Gentlemen evening in Münster Germany - On the 25th of October 2007, the German ambassador Juwelier Freisfeld and Vacheron Constantin invited 40 guests to a “Gentlemen Evening” in Münster with the presence of Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and Sébastien Knop, Director of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe, in order to celebrate the Premiere of the limited Patrimony Contemporaine Special Edition "Black & White" exclusively for Germany and Austria.
The historical “Schloss Wilkinghege” in Münster built an impressive setting for this evening. On this occasion, Mr. Dr. Freisfeld and his guests had the opportunity to exchange point of views concerning the art of watchmaking, and to ask Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres about his vision for the coming years – a highlight for these watch lovers was to discover, besides the Patrimony Contemporaine Special Edition "Black & White", an exhaustive range of Vacheron Constantin timepieces throughout the dinner.
Photo-captions:
- From left to right: Mrs Sébastien Knop, Juan-Carlos Torres and Doctor Freisfeld
- Musical entertainment at Gentlemen evening in Münster
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin wins the ''Watch of the Year 2007'' prize Yesterday evening, on Thursday 1st November 2007, in front of 700 people assembled at the Beau Rivage Hotel in Geneva, Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin’s CEO, received, on behalf of the brand, the Jury Prize for the Watch of the Year 2007 for the Patrimony Contemporary Retrograde Date and Day.
On receiving the prize, Juan-Carlos Torres said: “By its decision to give first prize for the Watch of the Year 2007 to Vacheron Constantin for its Patrimony Contemporary Retrograde Date and Day, the jury has rewarded and honoured the excellence of the horological tradition that respects the Geneva Hallmark. It has also honoured the technical achievement, artistic elegance and savoir-faire that Vacheron Constantin has transmitted without interruption for over 250 years. I thank the jury for its decision and would like to share this prize with all our colleagues, but especially with all the creative and technical teams at Vacheron Constantin.”
A marvel of elegance and character and a pure Vacheron Constantin creation, the Patrimony Contemporary Retrograde Date and Day is equipped with a double complication movement that takes its rightful place in the new generation of self-winding movements manufactured from A to Z in the Vacheron Constantin workshops. Stamped with the prestigious Geneva Hallmark, the calibre 2460 R31 R7 offers hour and minute as well as retrograde date and day functions. The 18K pink gold case is a generous 42.5 mm in diameter. Its convex sapphire back reveals the exceptional finishing and the decoration on the movement that has met Vacheron Constantin’s most stringent quality criteria.
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin and the Opéra National de Paris celebrated two major events France - Paris - Wednesday, 24 October, Vacheron Constantin and the Opéra National de Paris celebrated two major Parisian events: the opening night of Tosca, in front of numerous VIP personalities and guests, and the inauguration of a monumental clock in the atrium of the Opéra Bastille.
At the Opéra Bastille, in the presence of Mr Gerard Mortier, Director of the Opéra National de Paris, MrJuan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, and Mr Jean-Yves di Martino, the company’s Director in France, Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacturer and sponsor of the Opéra National de Paris, welcomed 280 guests to the opening night of Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca, performed under the musical direction of Nicola Luisotti and directed by Werner Schroeter.
Among the guests were Isabelle Carré, ambassadress of the “Vaincre la mucoviscidose” association with its president, Jean Lafond, François Cluzet, Ulrich Lehner, Switzerland’s ambassador to France and his wife, Carole Bouquet, Laurent Gerra, Nelson Montfort, Gérard Holtz, Emmanuel de Brantes and his wife, Stéphane Bern, Ariane Massenet and his sister Béatrice.
During the first intermission, Messrs Torres and Mortier inaugurated the monumental clock, Laudator Temporis, a gift from Vacheron Constantin to the Opéra National de Paris. Placed at the entrance to the Opéra Bastille and designed by the Neuchâtel artist-painter Ivan Moscatelli, it comprises 56 mouth-blown stained-glass windows and was made by the master glass-blower Werner Weyhe, from Lausanne. It is a highly coloured map of the world with clocks displaying the time in 10 major cities: Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Moscow, Peking, Rio de Janeiro, etc ... with automatic, radio-synchronised changing of the time zones, reflecting Vacheron Constantin’s international status.
After the performance, the guests were invited to the top floor of the Opéra Bastille for a private reception, during which they were able to admire the precious timepieces in Vacheron Constantin’s Patrimony collection.
Photo-captions:
- Private reception Vacheron Constantin at the Opéra Bastille
- During the first intermission, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, and Gerard Mortier, Director of the Opéra National de Paris, inaugurated the Laudator Temporis clock installed at the entrance to the Opéra Bastille
- Left to right: Juan-Carlos Torres with those who performed Tosca: Franck Ferrari, baritone, Vladimir Galouzine, tenor, Werner Schroeter, the director, Gerard Mortier, and Catherine Naglestad, soprano
- Valérie Boneton, François Cluzet, Gerard Mortier, Jean Lafond, Isabelle Carré and Juan-Carlos Torres
- Juan-Carlos Torres, Nelson Montfort and his wife, and Gérard Holtz
- Juan-Carlos Torres and François Cluzet
- Stéphane Bern and and Irène Frain
- Laurent Gerra and Arnaud Delbarre
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin presents its 5 values On September 24th 2007, and for the first time since its 250th anniversary celebrations, Vacheron Constantin – spurred on by its CEO Juan-Carlos Torres – welcomed over 550 guests to a magnificent evening held within its Manufacture. The event was timed to coincide with the publication of its five fundamental values.
1. Constantly seeking excellence
2. Supporting creativity
3. Remaining a socially aware company, open to the world
4. Respecting and passing on traditions
5. Sharing our passions
These five values were illustrated by the art exhibition entitled “Le Temps Miroitant” showing works by painter Silvana Solivella, along with artistic contributions from Pierre-Yves Borgeaud, Ania Losinger and Matthias Eser.
After speeches by Messrs Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin; Pierre-François Unger, State Councillor in charge of the Department of Economic Affairs and Health; and Pierre Maudet, Administrative Councillor for the City of Geneva, guests were able to wander around the four floors of the Manufacture in order to admire the artist’s works. They then headed to a large marquee specially set up for the occasion in order to enjoy five magnificent buffets, each representing one of the brand’s values. The broad range of culinary delights included the astonishing molecular cuisine of Geneva-based chef Gabriel Serero and scrumptious chocolates from famous chocolate-maker Tristan in Bougy-Villars.
“Le Temps Miroitant” was a project presented by Vacheron Constantin within its programme dedicated to discovering and promoting artistic talents, including in the field of literature, music, poetry and photography.
Photo-captions: - Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, Mrs Silvana Solivella, artist and painter, Mr. Pierre-François Unger, State Councillor in charge of the Department of Economic Affairs and Health, Mr. Pierre Maudet, Administrative Councillor of the City of Geneva - Mr. Carlo Lamprecht and Mr. Richard Lepeu, Group Finance Director, Richemont
- Mr. Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin and Mr. Pierre-François Unger, State Councillor in charge of the Department of Economic Affairs and Health
- Mr. Jean-Yves di Martino, Director of Vacheron Constantin France, Mr. Stefan Ciejka, Montres Magazine and Mr. Marc Guten, International Director
- Mr. Roger Pfund and M. Pierre Mueller
- The Manufacture Vacheron Constantin during the event
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2007 - Juan-Carlos Torres welcomes the direct descendants of François Constantin It was an emotional moment late last Friday afternoon when Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, welcomed the direct descendants and heirs of François Constantin who were paying their very first visit to the firm’s international headquarters and manufacturing facility in Plan-les-Ouates.
Firmly committed to cultivating the tradition and heritage of Vacheron Constantin, Juan-Carlos Torres was clearly delighted to accompany the members of the Constantin family around the contemporary art exhibition “Le Temps Miroitant”: an event running until October 18th and organised (at his instigation) around the theme of Vacheron Constantin’s five fundamental values.
Photo-caption (from left to right):
- Mrs Claude Perrottet (cousin of Odette and of Jean Constantin, niece of Charles Constantin),
- Mrs Odette Constantin (niece of Charles Constantin),
- Mr Jean Constantin (brother of Odette and nephew of Charles Constantin),
- Mr Olivier Constantin (grandson of Charles Constantin), and
- Mr Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO, Vacheron Constantin.
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2007 - Vacheron Constantin and Carollinum invite VIP guests to a Gala Diner in Prague Prague – Czech Republic - On the 18th of September, the new cooperation of Vacheron Constantin and the ambassador Carollinum has celebrated in an extraordinary setting with 40 vip-guests invited to a Vacheron Constantin watch dinner in a baroque private “maison” in the capital city of the Czech Republic. After an official presentation of some of the latest Vacheron Constantin timepieces and welcoming speeches by Tamara Bendlová Kotvalová, Director of Carollinum, Sébastien Knop, Brand Manager of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe and Manfred Tokarski, Sales Director Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe, the watch dinner started where the guests had the opportunity to collect hands-on experience on some of the Vacheron Constantin highlights and to enjoy the exceptional atmosphere in this unique location.
Photos-captions:
- Sébastien Knop, Brand Manager of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe and Manfred Tokarski, Sales Director of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe.
- The speeches by Tamara Bendlová Kotvalová, Director of Carollinum, Sébastien Knop, Brand Manager of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe and Manfred Tokarski, Sales Director of Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe.
- Guests discovering the latest Vacheron Constantin novelties.
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2007 – Opening of the Vacheron Constantin Lounge at Frankfurt Airport in Germany Vacheron Constantin inaugurated on September 18th 2007 the opening of the “Vacheron Constantin Bibliothek Lounge” in collaboration with Fraport VIP Lounge at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, where royalties, celebrities, politicians and other VIP persons have the possibility to bridge their waiting time far away from the daily airport rush.
The Fraport VIP Lounge team offers VIP services such as a limousine service from and to the plane, check-in and passport formalities, while guests can use their additional spare time to discover the world of Vacheron Constantin in an elegant environment and a relaxing atmosphere in the specially decorated private room.
The official opening of the VIP lounge, in the presence of Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Sébastien Knop, Brand Manager Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe and Ms. Storch, Director of the Fraport VIP Lounge was welcomed by around 40 VIP guests and Top journalists eager to discover the newly dedicated area, as well as the new Vacheron Constantin Chronomètre Royal 1907, which was presented and launched on the Northern European markets on that occasion. It is a limited edition of 100 pieces, celebrating the 100th anniversary of this epic timepiece.
Photo-captions:
- The “Vacheron Constantin Lounge” at Frankfurt Airport in Germany.
- From left to right: Mr Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, Mr Sébastien Knop, Brand Manager Vacheron Constantin Northern Europe and Ms. Storch, Director of the Fraport VIP Lounge.
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2007 - Vacheron Constantin displays its difference The pursuit of excellence, openness towards the world, the passing on of know-how and the sharing of passion… In an age characterised by a frenzied pace, the relentless pursuit of productivity and a constant concern for profitability, Vacheron Constantin – under the impetus of its CEO Juan-Carlos Torres – is turning its attention to the moral heritage bequeathed by its founders in an exhibition built around its five fundamental values.
Artist Silvana Solivella offers visitors discovering the exhibition entitled Le Temps Miroitant, staged in the Manufacture Vacheron Constantin in Geneva from September 24th to October 18th 2007, a unique and striking opportunity to enter into the very heart of her creative approach.
Through a set of works interpreting the themes of time and movement, of heritage and of transmission or passing on, the exhibition enters into a direct relationship with the watchmaking universe that is welcoming it within its walls. Conceived so as to highlight each of the five values, this fascinatingly varied presentation – associating various forms of artistic expression such as painting, photography, video, literature and sound – features over twenty works enabling observers to see and comprehend the creative life force that has been nurtured for over 250 years by the Manufacture.
Le Temps Miroitant is a project presented by Vacheron Constantin within the framework of its programme dedicated to the discovery and promotion of artistic talents.
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin Hosts Private Collector’s Dinner in Houston - USA Vacheron Constantin hosted a private watch collector’s event on May 22nd, 2007, with Zadok Jewelers of Houston, to preview Vacheron Constantin’s 2007 collection of exceptional and unique timepieces.
This occasion marked the first time ever that the company has held an event for its Houston collectors and VIP clients. Held at Masraff’s Restaurant, one of Houston’s culinary elite, the guests sat among the restaurants’ famous vintage chandeliers and convened to learn more about the Swiss manufacture during a talk given by Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America.
Among the VIP, Juwan Howard, NBA Superstar from the Houston Rockets and watch enthusiast, spoke with Julien Tornare about a special, limited edition timepiece purchase.
Photo-captions:
- Left to Right: Jonathan Zadok, Gilad Zadok, Julien Tornare, Segev Zadok
- Julien Tornare with Juwan Howard, NBA Houston Rockets team member
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin receives a “Watch of the Year” award in Amsterdam On June 9, the watch magazine Horloges invited around 150 guests to a grand gala evening at the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam for its “Watch of the Year” awards. Vacheron Constantin was presented with First Prize in the Men’s Design category for its Malte Quantième Perpétuel Open Face Collection Excellence Platine. Juliette Capillaire, Vacheron Constantin’s representative for Holland/ Scandinavia, was on hand to receive the prize from Jan de Bouvrie, a renowned Dutch designer.
Photo-caption:
- Juliette Capillaire receiving the Award from the designer Jan de Bouvrie
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2007 – A limited series engraved with the Russian coat-of-arms Russia – May 10, 2007 - Marc Guten, Vacheron Constantin’s International Director, and Nicolas Deflers, Director of Vacheron Constantin Russia, presented a Malte Quantième Perpétuel Rétrogradant timepiece, created exclusively for Vacheron Constantin’s Moscow boutique, to a group of Russian collectors. Manufactured in a very limited series of only five pieces in 18K 5N pink gold, this model has two exclusive features:
- An officer back which has been engraved on the outside with the Russian coat-of-arms, with its two-headed eagle. When the back is lifted, the very compact – 11 1/2 lignes for a thickness of 5.05 mm –1126QPR automatic mechanical movement can be admired through a sapphire crystal.
- A black dial whose surface, thanks to the texture of the finishing, absorbs rather than reflects the light and greatly improves legibility of the time. This is indicated by two facetted fan-shaped hands and 18K 5N pink gold applied hour-markers and Roman numerals.
This Perpetual Calendar timepiece also features a retrograde date. At the end of the last day of each month, its hand jumps back instantaneously to the first day of the following month and starts all over again. Well- proportioned with its 39 mm case, its fan-shaped horns and its crown stamped with a stylised version of the Maltese Cross, this timepiece only needs to be set once a century! So it won’t need setting again until 2100!
Photo captions:
- The Malte Perpetual Calendar timepiece with its black dial and its officer back with the engraved Russian coat-of-arms
- Marc Guten, Vacheron Constantin’s International Director, presents a special Russian limited series of the Malte Quantième Perpétuel Rétrogradant.
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin among the winners at the “Watch of the Year” Awards in Dubaï During the 2006 Watch of the Year Awards organised by the watch and jewellery magazine Alam Assaat Wal Moujawharat on February 13th 2007 in Dubaï, Vacheron Constantin’s Patrimony Contemporaine Collection Excellence Platine was awarded first prize for the best “Classic Watch”. This was one of 13 categories.
The gala evening, held at the Al Salam Hotel, was attended by many VIP guests, who came from Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Switzerland specially for the event. Switzerland’s consul general, H.E. Hans Hauser, chaired the jury, which comprised the following Haute Horlogerie professionals: Yussuf Al Nouwais, Group Vice-Chairman of Emirates Holding; Ingie Chalhoub, President and Managing Director of the Etoile Group; Mohammed Seddiqi; Fardan Al Fardan; Tawhid Abdallah, Managing Director of Damas Jewelry; Jamil Matar, Managing Director of Al Fardan Jewelry-KSA; Maximillian Busser; Giulio Papi; Abul Qassim Shirazi, Managing Director of the Bahrain Jewelry Center; Abdallah Al Sayegh, Vice-President of Al Sayegh Jewelry; and Roger Mrad, Managing Director of Wadih Mrad. Est. Lebanon.
Photo caption:
Mr Hugues de Pins, Director of Vacheron Constantin in the Middle East, receives the “Watch of the Year” award for the best Classic Watch.
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin at the Geneva Barbier-Mueller Museum Vacheron Constantin is a partner of the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The Geneva watch manufacturer held three dinners in this magical place to introduce a select group of guests to the museum’s exceptional private collection of primitive arts – the largest in the world. Although still closed to the public for renovations, the museum put on a private viewing of the “Arts of Africa and Oceania – highlights of the Barbier-Mueller Museum” exhibition for Vacheron Constantin. Also on display were the Métiers d’Art Les Masques watches, which were directly inspired by works from the Barbier-Mueller collection. Throughout these very special evenings, Vacheron Constantin’s guests were treated to the magic of discovery and shared in the mystery of the passion for collecting and watchmaking.
Photo-captions: - The museum before the arrival of the guests
- Guests at the entrance of the museum- Monique and Jean Paul Barbier-Mueller, founders of the museum with Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin launches its discussion forum on the web Communicating, informing, explaining, knowing and making known, sharing, listening... dialogue is part of what makes Vacheron Constantin tick. Today, the Web is an indispensable communication tool, not only for conveying information but for exchanging and sharing opinions, views etc. For a long time, Vacheron Constantin aficionados have been calling for a discussion forum where they could freely exchange impressions on the brand and on Watchmaking Excellence in general. Vacheron Constantin has decided go ahead with this idea and create The Hour Lounge, an independent discussion platform for open and easy dialogue among the brand’s enthusiasts. Vacheron Constantin has turned to Alexandre Ghotbi, a well-known moderator in the watch world, to run The Hour Lounge. Passionate about watches from a very early age, he has been the moderator for Vacheron Constantin’s column on www.ThePurists.com for the last five years. The launching of this forum is further evidence of Vacheron Constantin’s dynamism in the area of new technologies to offer even better service to its clients and lovers of Haute Horlogerie. After winning a Webby Awards last year for the quality of its institutional site (ahead of such companies as Mercedes Benz, Sony, Google and l’Oréal), Vacheron Constantin continues to surprise and demonstrate its boldness/foresight with the creation of this discussion forum.
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2007 – W3 Silver Award for the Vacheron Constantin Website After winning the Standard of Excellence Web Award from the prestigious Web Marketing Association and the Official Honoree Webby Award (the Oscars of the Web according to Time Magazine), Vacheron Constantin’s international website has now been given a W3 Silver Award by the highly respected International Academy of Visual Arts. This organisation is a veritable Who’s Who of professionals in the worlds of the media, interactivity, marketing and advertising. The Vacheron Constantin website received the W3 Silver Award for the quality of its conception, its structure, ease of navigation, design and functionality. In the short space of 18 months, the site has won three of the most prestigious awards, internationally known and recognised by the profession. In the same space of time, the daily number of visitors to the Vacheron Constantin site has almost doubled. |
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2007 – Paris National Opera in time with Vacheron Constantin 13 March 2007, Paris: Mr Gérard Mortier, Director of the Paris National Opera, Mr Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, and Mr Jean-Yves Di Martino, Vacheron Constantin’s Director France, signed an agreement in which Vacheron Constantin became a patron of the Paris National Opera for the entire 2007/2008 season. Among the 31 lyrical and choreographic productions to be presented at the Opéra Garnier and the Opéra Bastille, Vacheron Constantin will be specifically supporting Puccini’s Tosca, with 16 performances to be given between 24 October and 20 November 2007 at the Opéra Bastille.
This agreement with the Paris National Opera is another indication of Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to culture, the arts and discovery. Culture and the arts because Vacheron Constantin is a company which through its creations, has an artistic vocation. Those familiar with its history know how strongly its founders enjoyed sharing their culture throughout the world, while spreading their watchmaking savoir-faire, so closely linked to the métiers d’art still passionately fostered at Vacheron Constantin. Discovery because this is an integral part of the manufacture’s philosophy. If it did not constantly review its technical, aesthetic and cultural capabilities, Vacheron Constantin would certainly not be in a position to look back over a rich history of more than 250 years of accumulated horological expertise. It is in this spirit of “discovery” that Vacheron Constantin has already patronised such new talents as the young Spanish conductor Inma Shara, one of the most talented women of her generation, who last October conducted a concert organised by Vacheron Constantin in Madrid in aid of Alzheimer’s and in the presence of Queen Sophie.
Photo-captions:
- Gérard Mortier and Juan-Carlos Torres signing the agreement
- From the left to the right: Jean-Yves Di Martino, Gérard Mortier and Juan-Carlos Torres |
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin inaugurates an exclusive new boutique in China On January 18th 2007, Vacheron Constantin opened its 16th exclusive boutique (its 8th in China including Hong Kong) in Hangzhou, while taking the opportunity to present its Platinum Excellence Collection.
The team of Vacheron Constantin Asia Pacific, represented in particular by its Managing Director Jean-Michel Paray, as well as Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Hong Kong and China of Vacheron Constantin, were accompanied for this special occasion by Jane Fong, Managing Director of Shenzhen Harmony World Watch Centre and Xu Dong Cheng, President of Shenzhen Harmony World Watch Centre, Vacheron Constantin’s ambassadors and partners in Hangzhou. The numerous guests, including a hundred or so journalists as well as many VIPS and clients, were able to admire this new showroom. The latter is inspired by the lines of the Vacheron Constantin boutique in Geneva and features a simple yet elegant interior design highlighted by precious materials such as wood, marble and leather, all reflecting the serene intimacy and warm atmosphere characteristic of the Vacheron Constantin spirit. After the boutique inauguration, guests gathered in a prestigious location to celebrate the purest, rarest, most precious and most timeless of all metals, by presenting its collection of platinum watches, as well as many platinum antique watches dating back as far as 1820 and belonging to the Vacheron Constantin heritage collection. To enliven the event and create a special surprise, a reconstituted platinum mine provided guests with a vivid visual experience of all the many stages in the transformation of the metal, from the extraction process right through to the creation of platinum watches. Photo-captions: - From left to right: Charlie Lai, Managing Director of Hong Kong and China of Vacheron Constantin, Jean-Michel Paray, Managing Director of Asia Pacific of Vacheron Constantin, Xu Dong Cheng President of Shenzhen Harmony World Watch Centre and Jane Fong Managing Director of Shenzhen Harmony World Watch Centre and Vacheron Constantin ambassadors, toasting the opening of the excusive new Vacheron Constantin boutique in Hangzhou
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2007 – Vacheron Constantin at the ‘’Dubaï Fashion Show 2007’’ On 12 January, Vacheron Constantin presented its collection of ladies’ watches to over 350 VIP guests at a "Best Of & Ladies Only" dinner organised during the Dubaï Fashion Show 2007 and held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Bin Juma Al Makoum, wife of the Emirates’ vice-president and prime minister. Part of the evening’s entertainment was given over to an exclusive, inaugural fashion show, during which the models, dressed by Valentino, Sonia Rykiel, Kenzo, Emanuel Ungaro and Christian Lacroix, wore Vacheron Constantin watches.
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin presents its first ever steel tourbillon in a limited series In December 2006 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its historical Geneva boutique, Vacheron Constantin presented a tourbillon in a steel watch case for the very first time, limited to 10 timepieces part of the Malte collection, exclusively available in the Geneva Boutique. All the pieces are already pre-sold.
The Malte steel tourbillon by Vacheron Constantin, bearing the name most symbolic of the venerable Manufacture, powerfully asserts the symbiosis between contemporary design and technical horology. In addition to its attractive tonneau shape, the calibre 1790 – a movement entirely developed and manufactured in-house by Vacheron Constantin – has been treated to exceptional finishing of a kind that would be impossible to perform mechanically on the thin bars or bridges known as “barrettes”. No less than eleven hours of work are required for this work on the bars in order to comply with the finishing criteria established by the Manufacture. Featuring a “secret mark” concealed at noon in the minute circle as a reminder of the Geneva boutique’s 1906-2006 anniversary date, the opaline black nickel dial with its two pink gold hands is finely hand-guilloché on the outer zone with subtle vertical lines contributing to an elegant and extremely refined appearance. Applied pink gold hour-markers set the finishing touch to the harmonious overall effect. The case is water-resistant to 30 metres and topped by a cambered sapphire crystal protecting the dial. The watch is teamed with a hand-sewn strap in black alligator mississipiensis leather, complete with a steel folding clasp matching the case. |
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin awarded by the ''Russian Watch Press Awards'' In December 2006, in Russia, Vacheron Constantin’s Patrimony Collection Excellence Platine received first prize in the men’s watch category at the Russian Watch Press Awards. This annual prize is chosen by a jury comprising such well-known editors in chief and journalists as Alex Vetrov, editor of Watches, Alex Kulish, editor of Forbes Style, Aleksei Kutkovoi, editor of Tourbillion, Denis Peshkov, editor of Revolution, Alexei Tarkhanov, chief of Culture section, Kommersant, Nikolai Uskov, editor-in-chief GQ and Uriy Khnichrin, an editor at Robb Report.
Photo-captions:
- Patrimony “Collection Excellence Platine”
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin is awarded two 'Prix de l’Année 2006' On November 28, Vacheron Constantin was awarded two Prix de l'Année 2006 by the French watch magazine, La Revue des Montres. The awards were made at the Musée des Arts et Métiers, right in the heart of Paris. Marc Guten, Vacheron Constantin’s International Director, and Jean-Yves Di Martino, Director of Vacheron Constantin France, both present for the occasion, received the awards from Stephan Ciejka, the magazine’s editor-in-chief: 1st prize in the Men’s Chronograph category for the Malte Chronograph Collection Excellence Platine and 1st prize in the Women’s Jewellery Watch category for the Egérie, with its diamond-paved case and dial. The prize-giving ceremony closed with a cocktail party for the 200 guests present.
Photo-caption:
The prize winners awarded by the French magazine La Revue des Montres
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin commemorate its 200-year relationship with China Beijing, 18 August 2006: Vacheron Constantin held an exhibition of 84 vintage pieces to commemorate its 200-year relationship with China. This was the largest Vacheron Constantin exhibition ever organized outside Switzerland and was attended by over 400 people: collectors and connoisseurs, members of the central government’s culture and heritage section, as well as many journalists. It was held at the China Millennium Monument, built to celebrate China’s entry into the 21st century and decorated with large frescoes tracing the country’s history and development. The guests particularly appreciated the 15 watches inspired by Chinese art, notably the caged songbird, an automaton dating from the late 19th century.
Photo-captions:
- Left-Mr. Wang, Mr. Du, Mr. Torres, Mr. Edgar Doering (from Swiss Ambassy) and Mr. Stefan Greim (Representative from Credit Suisse)
- Mr Torres with Mr Du (VIP) and Mr Wang (Vice President of China Watch & Clock Associations)
- VC Management Team with Mr. Liu Zhongyang & Ms. Xing Wei (Dealer from Dalian Jinhua Watch)
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin presented Collection Excellence Platine in Beverly Hills Vacheron Constantin presented its Collection Excellence Platine, November 15 at a private Beverly Hills estate. The event was also a benefit for the EBMRF (Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation), a volunteer nonprofit foundation dedicated to the support of medical research, development of treatment and ultimately a cure for this deadly skin disease that affects children. Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin and Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America, welcomed Hollywood’s A-list, including Jennifer Aniston, David Arquette, Pete Sampras, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, Gavin Rossdale, Holly Robinson-Peete, Skeet Ulrich, Rebecca Romijn, Lauren Graham, Brenda Strong and Alison Janney. Three-time Grammy Award winner John Legend, wearing a Vacheron Constantin Skeleton Minute Repeater in Platinum, gave a private performance. Guests were able to view watches from the new collection, as well as watches from the Vacheron Constantin Heritage. Models dressed in custom-made platinum dresses walked around the event with Vacheron Constantin watches, giving guests a chance to touch, feel and see the hand craftsmanship that goes into each watch.
Photos-captions:
- The performance of John Legend, three-time Grammy Award winner
- Two models presenting Vacheron Constantin timepieces
- From left to right : Jennifer Aniston, John Legend, Julien Tornare, President of Vacheron Constantin North America and Marc Guten International Director of Vacheron Constantin
- From left to right : Marc Guten, International Director of Vacheron Constantin, John Legend and Julien Tornare President of Vacheron Constantin North America
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2006 – Vacheron Constantin supports the 'Queen Sophie Alzheimer’s Foundation' In the presence of Her Majesty Queen Sophie of Spain and Juan-Carlos Torres, Vacheron Constantin held a special concert in Madrid on 26 October in aid of the fight against Alzheimer’s. The Czech National Symphony Orchestra played works by Puccini, Rachmaninoff and Dvorak, directed by the young Spanish conductor, Inma Shara, one of the most talented of her generation who has conducted such internationally renowned orchestras as the Israel Philharmonic and the London Philharmonic. The solo pianist was the Italian Alessandro de Luca. Over 400 guests were invited, including the Duke de Bragança, Ms Mercedes Cabrera, Spain’s Minister of Education, Prince Kardam of Bulgaria and Princess Miriam of Hungary, Ana Botella, the wife of José Maria Aznar, the fashion designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, members of the Spanish royal family like Her Majesty Queen Sophie’s nephew, Bruno Gómez Acebo, accompanied by his wife, and Ana Martínez de Aguilar, Directress of the 'Queen Sofia Museum'. The evening closed with a cocktail party during which the guests were able to admire the precious platinum timepieces of the Vacheron Constantin Collection Excellence Platine as well as a selection of historical watches from the world’s oldest watch manufacture.
Légendes-photos :
- General view of the Czech National Symphony Orchestra directed by the Spanish conductor Inma Shara
- During the interval, Juan-Carlos Torres, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, hands Her Majesty Queen Sophie a donation for the ''Reina Sofía Foundation'' and a book, “The Secrets of Vacheron Constantin”.
From left to the right : Concertino, Ms Mercedes Cabrera Spain’s Minister of Education, the pianist Alessandro Luca, Her Majesty Queen Sophie, the conductor Inma Shara and Juan-Carlos Torres.
- Mr and Ms Arnoso from Portugal with the Duke of Bragança
- From left to the right : Alfonso Duran, Juan-Carlos Torres, Inma Shara and Miguel Gomez
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