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    Vacheron Constantin
    Horology, Luxury Goods

    Vacheron Constantin

    Switzerland flagSwitzerland

    "The oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation since 1755"

    Founded 1755 Plan-les-Ouates
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    About

    Geneva has witnessed the birth of many timekeeping legends, but none have kept their promise as faithfully as Vacheron Constantin. Jean-Marc Vacheron opened his first workshop in 1755, starting a lineage that would eventually welcome François Constantin as a partner in 1819. This union created a name that now stands synonymous with Swiss horological excellence and an unbroken tradition of craftsmanship spanning nearly three centuries.

    The brand operates as a cornerstone of the Richemont Group following its acquisition in 1996. Despite being part of a larger luxury conglomerate, the company maintains its independent identity and keeps its primary manufacturing facilities within the Canton of Geneva and the Vallée de Joux. About 1,200 artisans work across these sites to assemble movements and cases by hand, ensuring every piece meets rigorous standards of quality.

    Vacheron Constantin balances historical reverence with modern innovation through collections like the Overseas sports watch and the Fiftysix entry-level line. The brand recently celebrated artistic mastery with Métiers d'Art Tribute to the Animal Kingdom, which miniaturized six distinct crafts to depict creatures from nature. Their technical achievements remain unmatched, highlighted by the Les Cabinotiers - The Berkley Grand Complication unveiled in 2024. This masterpiece features 63 complications, including the first Chinese perpetual calendar, reclaiming the title for the most complicated mechanical watch ever made.

    Products & Sub-brands

    OverseasFiftysixTraditionnellePatrimonyHistoriquesMétiers d'ArtLes Cabinotiers

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns Vacheron Constantin?
    The Richemont Group acquired Vacheron Constantin in 1996. The brand operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary while maintaining its independent manufacturing identity in Geneva.
    Is Vacheron Constantin still in business?
    Yes, the brand is actively producing new timepieces and remains the oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation since its founding in 1755.
    What is the cheapest Vacheron Constantin watch?
    Entry-level models like the Fiftysix three-hand edition typically start around $15,000 USD on the secondary market, though prices vary based on materials and specific references.
    How does Vacheron Constantin compare to Patek Philippe?
    Both brands belong to the Holy Trinity and represent the highest tier of Swiss watchmaking. They differ in philosophy, with Vacheron often emphasizing artistic decoration and Patek focusing on precision and investment value.
    Who is the CEO of Vacheron Constantin?
    As a subsidiary of Richemont, the brand is led by a President appointed by the parent group. Recent communications focus on the collective leadership of the Maison rather than a single public-facing CEO figure.

    Keywords

    Swiss watchesluxury timepiecesHoly TrinityGrand ComplicationsMétiers d'ArtGeneva sealRichemonthand-wound movements

    Sources

    Company Info

    Founded
    1755
    Founder
    Jean-Marc Vacheron
    Headquarters
    Plan-les-Ouates
    Industry
    Horology, Luxury Goods
    Parent Company
    Richemont Group
    Employees
    1200
    Acquisition Year
    1996
    Most Complicated Watch
    Les Cabinotiers - The Berkley Grand Complication (63 complications)
    Auction Record Holder
    Reference No. 402833 ($2.77 million)

    Official Website

    www.vacheron-constantin.com/us/en/home.html

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