The concept of time might be one of the most subjective aspects of human experience. A universal constant, yet also a social construct, there’s beauty in its paradoxical nature — so it’s no wonder that different cultures have interpreted time in profoundly unique ways throughout history. And if anyone understands the magic of mastering a timepiece, along with the complexities that come with it, it’s Maison Vacheron Constantin. For its new collection, Les Cabinotiers Le Temps Divin, the Swiss watchmaker finds inspiration in how various cultures approach time, taking us on a journey through Asian, Japanese, and Greek mythologies.

The first chapter, Asian culture, seasons and wood marquetry, features four pieces inspired by the rhythm of the seasons and years, a concept rich with symbolic significance in Asian cultures and often associated with mythological creatures and zodiac signs. Each piece is adorned with sacred animals from Asian tradition, representing a different season, with dials graced by intricate wood marquetry: the Azure Dragon for spring, the Vermilion Bird for summer, the White Tiger for autumn, and the Black Tortoise for winter.

For its second chapter, Vacheron Constantin delves into the physical dimension of time through Greek mythology, chronometry and engraving, paying homage to the god Chronos. This drop comprises two exceptional timepieces, both featuring the Calibre 1990 with a bi-axial tourbillon and retrograde hour indications, protected by four patents.

Finally, we arrive in Japan with an exploration of Japanese culture, time and artistic crafts, a chapter that returns to the mythological origins of time itself. This segment explores the metaphysical dimensions of time through the lens of Japanese culture, represented by three mythological figures: Izanagi, Amaterasu, and Konohanasakuya-hime. These divinities and their respective environments come to life on dials crafted with a delicate blend of intaglio engraving, grisaille enamel, and miniature enamel. All aboard the Vacheron Constantin express!