Metiers D'Art Yukimi Winter Unisex Watch 33222/000G-9706

A human adventure, an invitation to discover another dimension where know-how and innovation meet: the 'Metiers d'Art La Symbolique des Laques' collection tells the tale of a meeting between the artists from one of the oldest Japanese lacquer houses, Zohiko, located in Kyoto since it was founded in 1661, and the world's oldest watch manufacturer having maintained uninterrupted production since 1755. The third and last set in the collection pays tribute to the natural beauty of the seasons, called 'Setsugekka'. While Japanese ways of life have changed over the centuries, they draw on various realms of the tradition of contemplation. 'Hanami Tsukimi Yukimi' watches promote this Japanese art of making an institution of the pleasure of enjoying the ephemeral gracefulness of nature: three changes of season - spring, autumn and winter - representing three symbols at the heart of Japanese rituals and heritage. It took no less than seven months 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 caliber, whose openworked silhouette also enhances its contemplative appeal. Manufactured in 18-carat gold - a particularly delicate material to work with - this legendary movement is treated with ruthenium in order to match the dials and humbly give pride of place to the consummate excellence of the art of 'maki-e'. Caliber 1003, bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, the ultimate token of excellence in the purest Geneva watchmaking tradition, remains a benchmark movement in the history of Fine Watchmaking. It measures a mere 1.64 mm thick, making it the world's thinnest hand-wound movement, and was entirely designed, developed and manufactured in the Vacheron Constantin workshops. The sapphire crystals on either side of the watch make it possible to admire the exceptional finishes, including chamfering, straight-graining and engraving, all done by hand. Echoing Japanese culture, the sobriety of the round case framing this exceptional movement and the two 'maki-e' dials, reflects the Zen spirit of the collection. "Maki-e" in Japanese means "filled up the picture." This style of enamel painting features the most complex techniques of decorative lacquering. The art begins while paint (usually black in color) has not yet congealed, which is then sprinkled with gold or silver powder to create unique designs. The final lacquered coating is made from the sap of what is known as the Chines Lacquer tree, Rhus Verniciflua, which is found is in the highlands of central Asia and parts of Tibet. Yukimi - Winter: The "Yukumi" tradition takes place in winter. During this period, the Japanese revel in the pleasure of watching the snow fall gently. The silence of the slow fall of flakes, the frozen air and the serenity of the moment are usually enjoyed in groups. In order to protect the trees from oft heavy, thick snow that might bend them under its weight, the Japanese protect them with conical structures made of rope and bamboo, called "Yukizuri". The front dial is decorated with images of snow crystals. The dial on the back of the watch is decorated with golden "Yukizuri" structures over plants. In certain gardens, it is traditional to light up the "Yukizori" at night, and their gold reflections metamorphose the area into a winter paradise. Limited series of 20 sets per year. each containing three watches. 18kt white gold case with a black alligator leather strap. Fixed 18kt white gold bezel. Japanese maki-e lacquer dial with white gold hands. Vacheron Constantin 1003 SQ hand wind movement with a 30-hour power reserve. Scratch resistant sapphire crystal. Transparent case back. Case size: 40 mm. Case thickness: 8.2 mm. Round case shape. Pin buckle. Water resistant at 30 meters / 100 feet. Style: Atypical High Horology. Watch label: Swiss Made. Vacheron Constantin Metiers D'Art La Symbolique Des Laques Yukimi Winter Unisex Watch 33222/000G-9706.