April 11, 2012: Vacheron Constantin tells the tale of a meeting between the artists from one of the oldest Japanese lacquer houses, Zôhiko, located in Kyoto and founded in 1661, and Vacheron Constantin through the Metiers d’art La Symbolique des Laques collection.
Acknowledged experts in the art of 'maki-e', the artisans of the House of Zôhiko perpetuate a tradition of artistic continuity and constantly renewed creativity. The most sophisticated technique in the art of lacquer, maki-e literally means sprinkled picture – or gold or silver dust delicately sprinkled on still moist lacquer which is usually black, to create the motif.
The third and last boxed in the collection pays tribute to the natural beauty of seasons. The ‘Hanami Tsukimi Yukimi’ watches promote this Japanese art of making an institution of the pleasure of enjoying the ephemeral gracefulness of nature – the three seasons – spring, autumn and winter. It took no less than seven years to create the two dials produced for each model. Each emblem – snowflakes, cherry flowers and full moon – provide a harmonious escort for hours that are driven by an ultra-flat 1003 calibre, whose openworked silhouette also enhances its contemplative appeal.
The 'Hanami' watch is an ode to the cherry blossom season. The dial of the watch has the grace of the burgeoning flowers, while its back is caressed by the gentle rustling of the willow leaves, whose movement illuminates the delicacy of the motif. The typical Japanese bridge which straddles the water features of the park rounds off the scene, instilling it with a sense of great serenity.
The 'Tsukimi' watch honours the first full moon of autumn. On the dial of the watch, the clouds suspended against the black lacquer create a trompe-l'oeil effect in subtle misty graded shades escorting the full moon. Japanese maples dressed in a bright red autumn robe cover the back of the watch side by side with a ‘torii’ portal, commonly built at the entrance to Shintoist sanctuaries in order to separate the sacred area from the wicked environment.
The 'Yukimi' watch contemplates the snow in winter. On the face of the watch, the frail silhouettes of the snow crystals stand out against the black lacquer background. The back has a light elegance revealed by the gold powder. It depicts the tradition in which certain gardens light up the 'Yukizori' at night, and their gold reflections metamorphose the area into a winter paradise.
Price on Request
Available at (on request): The Vacheron Constantin Boutique, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi & Dia Store, Taj Mahal Palace, Apollo Bunder, Mumbai
