Prior to the 1980s, tourbillon escapements were almost exclusively reserved for use in pocket watches, with some notable exceptions. Since then, manufactures such as Vacheron Constantin have taken it upon themselves to integrate tourbillons in their most exclusive pieces and in increasingly ingenious and artistic ways.

The white gold, open-worked dial on the present lot displays a splendid array of difficult and delicate finishing techniques which contrast subtly with the thick lines of the 36mm platinum case. Each layer of the hand-skeletonized movement has a contrasting finish, building a sense of depth and movement and exemplifying watchmaking at its absolute finest. Turn this spectacular watch over, and you are treated to just as much detail and attention devoted to the reverse of the movement. Everything that is not strictly necessary is meticulously cut away; each remaining part is then hand-engraved with the most lavish detail. The superbly hand-polished tourbillon carriage is sculpted in the form of the Maltese Cross, the symbol of the manufacture. The motif is repeated in the center of the finely wrought bridge, as both emblem and support structure.

The present wristwatch, encased in platinum and accompanied with certificate and presentation box, is a perfect combination of sophisticated horological complication and aesthetic beauty.