Vacheron Constantin (VC) presents ‘The Quest: 270 years of seeking excellence,’ exhibition in Abu Dhabi from 21 February until 15 April 2025. It is being held to celebrate VC’s 270th anniversary. Abu Dhabi is the first major city to host this milestone exhibition.
Images: An immersive experience.
“An Immersive experience into the heart of high watchmaking, the exhibition covers 270 years of the maison’s history, innovation and craftsmanship.”
Founded in Geneva in 1755, VC it is the oldest continuous watchmaker in existence. Together with Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, it is part of the Holy Trinity. VC is part of the Richemont Group.
Key Features
VC “will honour the region and Abu Dhabi’s rich culture by offering an experience deeply infused with local design, traditions, and flavours.”
Top: Abu Dhabi celestial sky chart, and (I think) this is the piece unique grand complication featuring the Abu Dhabi celestial sky chart. It is a version of the Les Cabinotiers Celestia Astronomical Grand Complication 3600. Unveiled in 2017, it is among VC’s most complicated watches ever created. It features 23 complications. The celestial sky chart is on the reverse side. Bottom: Vacheron Constantin’s first-ever Majlis, “reinterpreting this iconic symbol of Middle Eastern hospitality.”
VC will introduce a piece unique watch “featuring the Abu Dhabi celestial sky chart, alongside the first-ever Vacheron Constantin Majlis.”
Top: Workshops being held here. Bottom: Enamelling experience.
The immersive exhibition will “feature a series of workshops and panel discussions that invite guests to explore the artistry behind the Maison’s craftsmanship.”
Image: Part of the venue. Novelties displayed on the left side.
“During Ramadan, special programs will celebrate the Holy Month, creating an immersive fusion of artistry and heritage.”
Top: A vintage VC watch. Bottom: Present day VC grand complications.
“Additionally, for the very first time, the latest Watches & Wonders novelties will be revealed simultaneously with the Geneva Fair on April 1st, adding another exciting dimension to the exhibition.”
In their own words
“We are honoured to present ‘The Quest: 270 Years of Seeking Excellence’ in Abu Dhabi, a destination that perfectly embodies innovation, heritage, and craftsmanship. We have created an experience that celebrates the Maison’s legacy while reflecting the emirate’s cultural richness and forward-thinking vision. It is a privilege to bring this milestone to such a dynamic and inspiring destination.” – Christophe Ramel, Managing Director, Vacheron Constantin Middle East
“Abu Dhabi is honoured to be the first city to host Vacheron Constantin’s 270th-anniversary exhibit, marking the exclusive global unveiling of a new timepiece and a well curated program of immersive experiences. Opening at Al Qana, this two-month activation offers a unique space for the community to experience the brand’s timeless craftsmanship and heritage. In a celebration of artistry and innovation, this event reflects Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global destination for heritage, culture, and luxury retail.” – Noura Al Foulathi, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)
Our Thoughts
It seems it was just yesterday that Vacheron Constantin celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2005. How time flies. It has been two decades since that quarter millennium anniversary. The research, development, and execution that went into VC’s 250th anniversary collection laid the foundation and transformed the brand into a modern horological powerhouse. The 250th anniversary models – Tour de l’Ile, Saint-Gervais, Jubilé 1755, Métiers d’Art models, and L’Esprit des Cabinotiers clock – is one of the most (if not the most) impressive single year watch collection launched by any brand in history.
During the past 20 years, VC has given birth to collections such as Patrimony, Traditionnelle, Métiers d’Art, Overseas, Fiftysix, Historiques, Égérie, Malte, and Heures Créatives. (Quai de L’ile and Harmony were discontinued.) Both the Les Cabinotiers 57260 (2015), and the Les Cabinotiers Berkley Grand Complication (2024) hold the record for being the most complicated timepiece in the world.
Image: Historiques 222 in steel.
VC launched the Historiques 222 in steel last month as a first step towards celebrating its 270th anniversary. As the year unfolds, be prepared for horological wonder and magic from VC. My prediction is to expect a combination of complications, grand complications, maybe a mega grand complication, Métiers d’Art models, bejewelled models, and perhaps a new collection! More importantly, I hope VC’s 270th anniversary collection lays the foundation for the brand’s next 20-30 years. VC is a brand that I adore, and I am excited. Laurent Perves, VC’s new CEO, has an enviable task ahead as he guides this magnificent brand to even greater heights.
Additional Details
Name: ‘The Quest: 270 years of seeking excellence.’
Venue: Al Qana, in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Public exhibition. Online booking required.
Please visit the VC website for more information.
Recommend0 recommendationsPublished in Events, Watches