Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art - The legend of the Chinese zodiac - Year of the Snake

Following an initial 12-year cycle during which Vacheron Constantin dedicated two limited series to each sign of the Chinese zodiac, this year the Maison is launching a new Métiers d'Art series, The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac, based on the figure of the snake.

A symbol of wisdom and a mysterious animal associated with renewal and agility, the sixth sign of the Chinese zodiac also brings good luck and prosperity. Depicted as a cobra on the dial of the two limited editions, it once again underlines the historic ties uniting Chinese and Swiss cultures since the mid-19th century. From 1845 onwards, the company founded in 1755 began to explore new horizons in Asia, particularly in China. Barely 90 years after its founding, Vacheron Constantin played a key role in establishing the jewellery watch among the high dignitaries of the Court, for whom it produced so-called Chinese watches, richly decorated with engravings or enamels and often sold in pairs. These watches were also remarkably water-resistant, an undeniable advantage given the damp climate of the Middle Kingdom. Since then, the Maison has continued to nurture its historic presence in China, through numerous partnerships and by creating watches influenced by Asian and particularly Chinese culture that are highly prized by watch connoisseurs and collectors. This openness to the world, coupled with an insatiable cultural curiosity, is demonstrated by Vacheron Constantin's latest masterly demonstration of its artistic crafts.