09/11/2018

London Calling! Vacheron Constantin Announces New FIFTYSIX Tourbillon And Abbey Road Studios Partnership

Eight months removed from the launch of the FIFTYSIX, Vacheron Constantin has regrouped collectors and media in London on an exceptional agenda.

By Josh Shanks

Contributor

As you may have seen on social media, Vacheron Constantin rang in fall with a massive soiree in London. The purpose of this event was threefold. First, the brand’s much-hyped FIFTYSIX collection arriving in North American Retailers. Second, the brand announced a unique partnership with Abbey Road Studios. Third and finally, the brand introduced out a new (and seriously impressive) FIFTYSIX Tourbillon. Here’s the scoop.

The allure of the FIFTYSIX

At this year’s SIHH, Vacheron Constantin released the FIFTYSIX Collection – a diverse set of vintage-inspired timepieces aimed at attracting new audiences to the brand. And charm it did! The collection has garnered a fair amount of publicity with its millennial-focused advertising campaign, one example of which featured Watchonista’s Alexander Friedman.

While there were many angles to the FIFTYSIX story including our in-depth look HERE, the most polarizing storyline may be the aggressive price points of this collection. Starting at just $11,900 for the FIFTYSIX in Stainless Steel, the collection is undoubtedly a boost for the brand.

A New Addition – The FIFTYSIX Tourbillon

Vacheron Constantin’s Style and Heritage Direction Christian Selmoni is not known to rest on his laurels. The brand isn’t shy either about putting him forward as the face of Vacheron Constantin’s recent resurgence. From last year’s Historiques 1942 and 1948 to the FIFTYSIX collection, Selmoni has put his distinctive mark on so many aspects of the brand.

Today is no different, in the latest evolution for the brand and the FIFTYSIX collection is a new FIFTYSIX Tourbillon in Rose Gold. While the FIFTYSIX formerly topped out with the $36,800 USD Rose Gold Complete Calendar, this new tourbillon now climbs near the top of the brand’s price list at $113,000 USD.

With design aesthetics very similar to the other models in the FITYSIX collection, the new tourbillon piece differentiates itself of course by placing an oversized tourbillon viewable at six o’clock. Like all Vacheron Constantin tourbillons, the cage is completely hand finished. What’s more? The caliber 2160 in the FIFTYSIX tourbillon is an automatic movement with 80 hours of power reserve. The FIFTYSIX Tourbillon’s 41mm rose gold case is matched to a brown Mississippiensis alligator leather strap. By keeping the Maltese cross motif via the lugs, the brand has reinforced its commitment to this series and promised the best is yet to come.

Now Available In Stores, Pricing

More good news out of London, while many collectors have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the FIFTYSIX in stores. Vacheron Constantin has announced the wait is over, and all six FIFTYSIX models are now available for purchase at your nearest authorized dealer or Vacheron Constantin boutique. For more information and pricing details, visit vacheronconstantin.com.

"And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make"

Watchonista wasn’t just in London to revisit the FIFTYSIX collection and get hands-on with the new FIFTYSIX Tourbillon, as there was a separate, distinct reason we were in the Queen’s turf.

It is at Abbey Road Studios where The Beatles and countless other acts have recorded legendary songs and albums that still live on today. On September 11, 2018, Vacheron Constantin formally announced their multi-channel partnership with Abbey Road Studios. This groundbreaking partnership incorporates musician Benjamin Clementine. To celebrate the upcoming “One of not Many” advertising campaign, Mr. Clementine performed a concert for the assembled guests. On his wrist? A Vacheron Constantin FIFTYSIX.