Full Breakdown
Vacheron Constantin Concours d’Élégance Horlogère: A New Era in Watch Collecting
3/7/2026, 3:47:33 AM
Introduction to the Concours d’Élégance
The inaugural “Vacheron Constantin Concours d’Élégance Horlogère,” organized by Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, aims to celebrate the innovation and technical mastery of timepieces. Paul Boutros, deputy chairman and head of watches Americas for Phillips, emphasized that this initiative is a long-held dream of founder Aurel Bacs, designed to showcase exceptional watches across various categories and eras. Unlike traditional competitions, this concours does not involve commercial gain; instead, it offers prestige as the primary reward for collectors who submit their timepieces.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The concours is open exclusively to Vacheron Constantin timepieces produced between 1755 and 1999, excluding quartz watches and clocks. Each entry must adhere to strict guidelines, including authenticity and original mechanics. Christian Selmoni, heritage and style director at Vacheron Constantin, noted that watches must match the archives in terms of case and movement numbers, and any restorations must be performed solely by Vacheron Constantin. The selection process involves a jury composed of respected collectors, scholars, journalists, and independent watchmakers, who will evaluate entries based on criteria such as provenance, technical merit, rarity, and emotional resonance.
Categories and Evaluation Process
The concours features seven categories: chiming watches, chronographs, astronomical complications, multiple complications, Chronomètre Royal, design, and métiers d’art. Each entry will be assessed against nine criteria, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the timepieces. The jury's expertise is expected to highlight the cultural significance of the selected watches, elevating their status within the horological community.
Future Prospects and Events
While this first event is in collaboration with Vacheron Constantin, future Concours d’Élégance Horlogère events are anticipated to include other prestigious watch brands, similar to the automotive concours format. Collectors can submit their watches until April 30, 2026, with the selected pieces to be displayed alongside the Phillips autumn auctions in November. The jury will convene for final votes on the morning of November 10, with awards presented later that evening.
Criticism and Opposition
While the concours aims to elevate the status of exceptional watches, some critics may question the exclusivity of the event, as it only features Vacheron Constantin timepieces initially. This limitation could be seen as a barrier for collectors of other prestigious brands who may feel excluded from this celebration of horological excellence.
Conclusion
The Vacheron Constantin Concours d’Élégance Horlogère represents a significant step in recognizing the artistry and craftsmanship of luxury watches. By establishing rigorous standards and a prestigious platform for showcasing timepieces, the concours aims to foster a deeper appreciation for horology and its rich history. As the event evolves, it may pave the way for broader inclusivity within the watch collecting community.
