By Jovan Krstevski
The new Vacheron Constantin named its new release after its historical site which is the Quai de l’Ile. For the VC fans out there we all know that the beautiful collection was launched back in 2008 reflecting the contemporary inspirations in line with fine watchmaking traditions. VC watches are of course modern yet very much classic with sophistication that transcends time… well, I can go on with this but to shorten stuff, the steel Quai de l’Ile collection sounds more interesting because you know… steel. So for this year expect Vacheron Constantin watches specifically its two new models to be made in stainless steel. This is absolutely new for the collection that usually sees precious metals. For the gentlemen out there, of course, the feel of steel is still oddly more satisfactory.
The case of the new VC stainless steel models is enhanced with both polished and satin-brushed finishes. This combination is great especially when you allow light to shine on it. Of course, VC uses its aesthetic heritage iconic designs which is a cushion type case with a rounded bezel and a tonneau or barrel like case band. At 41 mm the case also fits in perfectly with modern office attires plus the classic signature design really makes for an eye-watering Vacheron Constantin original designs. Moreover, the split-level lugs of the stainless steel case also reinforce the dynamics of the case’s rigidity and of course everyone will be happy to see the transparent sapphire crystal caseback where the movement is graciously displayed.
The obvious difference of the two VC models are of course reflected on the multi-level dial. However other than the silver-toned (ref. 4500S/000A-B195) or black dial (ref. 4500S/000A-B196), we don’t see much differences. Besides both dial sport an opaline finish making for a really cool time read out. The hour markers and Arabic numerals are entirely made of white luminescent material making the readability superb. VC also replaced the traditional aperture type date with a two level date indication adding for the watch’s sophistication. This is possible since we have a multi-level dial that uses transparent mineral glass disc where the dates of the month are printed. The way it works is that the date disc of Caliber 5100 becomes the subtle axis point by which an arrow indicator points towards the correct date. Nicely done VC.
The new VCs are powered by an in-house mechanical self-winding movement Calibre 5100. It boasts of 172 parts with 28,800 vph and 60 hours of power reserve. Its tough construction also allows it to withstand water pressures down to 30 meters or 100 feet. That is not bad to play James Bond anytime anywhere. The movement is also impact proof but the real icing here is the long power reserve courtesy of the twin barrel technology. Furthermore, we see fine finishes on the movement such as chamfering, polishing, circular graining, and Côtes de Genève that meets the demanding Hallmark of Geneva standards.
These new VCs come on either a chestnut brown alligator leather strap or black rubber with a steel folding clasp.
For more info, please visit vacheron-constantin.com
JOVAN KRSTEVSKI – FOUNDER, PROPRIETOR & EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Jovan Krstevski has been collecting watches every since his father bought him an Omega Seamaster back when he was just a teenager. He launched Watchgeek back in 2011, which is now known as WristReview and is one of the most widely read watch blogs on the Web. He quotes ’WristReview is a site to help people find, explore, discover and enjoy wristwatches.’ Besides WristReview, he also writes for a number of publications. Read his articles here
