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SIHH 2019: Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar
In the lead up to the launch, I keep telling people, it’s not just a new watch; it’s a new kind of watch. The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar is the first watch in the world that allows you to switch between a high-frequency balance and a low-frequency balance, extending the power reserve by up to 65 days. To use an analogy, it’s equivalent to being able to change gears and optimise fuel consumption according to your needs.
The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar can be switched between two modes — Active mode, which runs off a 5Hz balance, and Standby mode, which runs off a 1.2Hz balance. The Active mode is designed for everyday wear, and has four days of power reserve. This is already pretty major, since the most common 5Hz watch out there has like a two-day power reserve or something.
If you’re not going to wear the watch for a while, you can switch it (using the pusher at 8 o’clock) to Standby mode and set it aside. Frequency drops, power reserve extends. For the full 65 days of power reserve, wind the watch before setting it aside.
It is a watch that takes care of itself, and by doing so it takes care of you and your time. It’s incredible that no one ever made something like this before, and Vacheron Constantin deserves all the credit in the world for successfully developing this concept. It is a mechanical and philosophical triumph.
Now, stay tuned for a deep dive into the mechanical innovations involved in the making of this watch, because believe me, there are plenty. See you guys on the other side of SIHH.