Singapore Watch Club celebrates eighth anniversary with Vacheron Constantin in a landmark collaboration

Singapore Watch Club (SWC) commemorates its eighth anniversary with an extraordinary collaboration with Vacheron Constantin, the world's oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation. This partnership culminated in a recent retrospective limited edition showcase, which stands as a tribute to the Swiss luxury maison's storied heritage and commitment to impeccable craftsmanship.

The highlight of this collaboration is the presentation of 15 restored and enhanced Historiques Chronograph ref. 47101 timepieces, which are not only a nod to historical excellence but also represent significant personal histories. Each watch originates from the private collections of SWC members, carrying stories from the 1990s to the present.

Launched in 1991, the Historiques Chronograph ref. 47101, part of the Les Historiques collection, is a reinterpretation of the iconic 1940s reference 4178. It underwent evolution with minor modifications leading to the reference 47111 in 1999. These watches, available in yellow gold and platinum, house the legendary calibre 1140/1141, a masterpiece of engineering that has seen constant enhancements since its inception in 1942.

These timepieces are designed for vintage collectors who appreciate modern watchmaking advancements while resonating with styles of the 40s. They feature exquisite manual-winding mechanisms, a column wheel, a high-quality horizontal clutch, and meticulous finishing, including black mirror polishing and Côtes de Genève decorations.

Tom Chng, founder of Singapore Watch Club, is nothing less than enthusiastic about this one-of-a-kind partnership: "Together, we celebrate not only the rich heritage of watchmaking but also a vibrant community spirit."

Following a meticulous restoration process and complete movement overhaul last year, these iconic timepieces have been lovingly revived to their former glory by Vacheron Constantin's dedicated restoration workshop. The addition of a gold commemorative bridge is a new hallmark, and comes adorned with SWC's initials that were meticulously hand-engraved at the manufacture's prestigious metiers d'art studio.

On the dial side, the central chronograph seconds hand is tipped in red, symbolising the values of universal brotherhood and equality of man, which deeply resonates with the Singaporean spirit. Each watch also sports a new blue leather strap accented with red stitching. Every one of them is accompanied by an archival update that documents the recent enhancements.

Elaborating on the project's significance, Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin's style and heritage director Christian Selmoni, says, "Watches tell stories, inviting us to travel back in time to retrace origins and immerse oneself in bygone eras to create and innovate even better. This specific project reflects Vacheron Constantin's commitment to the conservation, restoration, transmission, and continuous enrichment of its heritage and traditional skills. It is a testimony to the maison's watchmakers' know-how and commitment in respecting its history."

This partnership sets a new standard for collaborative excellence in the watchmaking industry, bringing together a rich historical tapestry with contemporary horological innovation. In addition, it underscores Vacheron Constantin's aim of restoring every single watch it has made, so that each and every collector could pass down their cherished timepieces through the generations.