Vacheron Constantin introduces the Les Cabinotiers Temporis Duo Grand Complication Openface, a one-of-a-kind timepiece that unites three of the most complex horological mechanisms in a single watch: a minute repeater, a split-seconds chronograph, and a tourbillon regulator. The brand draws from its longstanding expertise in fine watchmaking and introduces new material research and technical developments through this exceptional piece.
WATCHES
The Calibre 2757 S drives the watch. Its construction includes 696 components arranged with precision to prioritize performance. The movement measures just 10.4 mm in height and 33.3 mm in diameter, despite its mechanical complexity. A sapphire dial reveals its inner workings, while the 45 mm pink gold case houses the caliber’s advanced functions. The calibre also includes a power reserve display on the caseback and benefits from reduced friction and weight through the use of titanium, nickel-phosphorus, aluminium, and silicon in key components.
The watch’s split-seconds chronograph relies on a column-wheel system with two pushers, one at 2 o’clock to start, stop, and reset; the other at 4 o’clock to control the split-seconds hand. When the latter is pressed, one hand stops to record an intermediate time while the other continues tracking. Pressing it again reunites the two hands in motion. To achieve this accuracy, Vacheron Constantin chose aluminium for the chronograph seconds hands and included a 30-minute counter positioned at 2 o’clock.
At 6 o’clock, the tourbillon performs one full rotation every minute, with a small seconds hand mounted on its axis. The watchmakers fitted it with a spherical hairspring to improve isochronism. The cage references the Maltese cross, a signature of the Maison, and a hand-bevelled bridge secures the mechanism in place.
The minute repeater operates through a flying strike governor designed to control the rhythm and clarity of the chimes. Two flyweights inside the mechanism create resistance by pivoting outward as the governor spins, balancing the energy released from the repeater’s spring. The system ensures a regular cadence and eliminates mechanical noise, producing distinct notes when activated.
Every surface on the calibre has undergone extensive hand-finishing. Bevelled edges, grained textures, polished angles, and engraved details run across the visible movement. The open sapphire dial measures just 0.5 mm thick and showcases polished and frosted elements across its counters. Rings in 5N gold frame the displays, while grey NAC and engraved chronograph markers provide additional contrast. The chronograph hands appear in olive green PVD-coated aluminium, matching the green alligator leather strap.
On the reverse, blackened bridges with sandblasted recesses and polished edges reveal the precision of the watchmaker’s work. Hand-chamfered sinks for jewels and screws, along with a polished semi-circular bridge holding the engraved JMV initials, reflect the brand’s exacting standards. The engraving pays tribute to Jean-Marc Vacheron.
Vacheron Constantin entrusted one watchmaker with every stage of this creation, from finishing each component by hand to assembling, adjusting, and casing the watch. This method recalls the 18th-century cabinotiers, continuing the Maison’s practice of passing knowledge through skilled craftsmanship.
