First I have to admit I entered the gallery that was exhibiting the Treasures of Vacheron Constantin with a personal bias toward pocket watches and was intrigued by ‘this triple layered’ Les Bergers of Arcadia printed on the hanging banner.
‘ Les Bergers of Arcadia
Inside the exhibition at the National Musuem of Singapore, what soon stopped me on my track was this stainless steel, silver dial, chronograph gentleman’s watch I came across at the exhibit. I was smitten by its understated elegance, fronted by the simplicity of its matte surface which made it so timeless.
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From top left clock wise – Gentleman’s watches – Chronograph gentleman’s wristwatch, Saltarello jumping hours and retrograde minutes gentleman’s watch, Minute-repeater gentleman’s wristwatch, Jumping hour gentleman’s wristwatch
Impressed by the ingenuity of the mechanics invented at that time made me retrace my steps and read through the Vacheron’s watch revolution from the 1755 to what is it today – a true legacy.
For a brand name filled with rich heritage, I was impressed by the simplicity and brevity of the presentation from the beginning of Vacheron Constantin’s journey to how the industrial age revolutionised the measurement of time which impacted how the timepieces were fashioned. And this was during the time when the parts of the watches were hand-made.
At the Treasures of Vacheron Constantin : A legacy of watchmaking since 1755, expect light and informative reads that flank the elegant watches on display. No exceptionally profound horology terminology that alienate newbies like me.
For someone who has never been a watch enthusiast, this trip has fuelled my interest in horology and given me a glimpse of what went behind the making of the masterpiece besides the displayed masterpieces – Engraver, gem-setter, guillocheur and enameler
In fact, I am already looking forward to check out the exclusive Vacheron Constantin Boutique at Marina Bay Sands !
Marvel at the intricate timepieces customised for specific royalties and major events
Look out for King Farouk, a pocket-watch that was custom made as a gift for the King of Egypt. Gentleman’s wristwatch with Braille models for the visually handicap. A showcase of their classic advertisements. And much more with an open eye.
Pocket watch to reward staffs for 25 years of service to The Canadian Aluminum Group of Companies.
Take away with you a little chapter in horology and be inspired by the endless pursuit of excellence.
Time travel ends on 14 August 2011.
Exhibit : Treasures of Vacheron Constantin : A legacy of watchmaking since 1755
Runs from: Fri 24 June – Fri 14 Aug 2011 | 10am – 6pm
Venue: National Museum of Singapore.
93 Stamford Road Singapore 178897. Exhibition Gallery 1, Basement
Opening hours:
Singapore History Gallery. Level 2
10am – 6pm daily. Last admission at 5.30pm
Singapore Living Galleries. Level 2. 10am – 8pm daily
Free admission from 6pm – 8pm daily
Last admission at 7.30pm
Editor’s Note: Gobbs is a creative director and owner of Brew Creative (www.iheartbrew.com)
A creative dreamer. A lover of life. A live human bean.
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flickr: oh my gobbs
