Vacheron Constantin introduces two rare Métiers d’Art watches for the 2027 Lunar New Year, combining hand-engraved gold sculpture, intricate enamel work and an unconventional time display. Limited to just 25 pieces per version, the release highlights the continued appeal of traditional craftsmanship in the global luxury-watch market.
◉ Rare by design: Two editions in pink gold and platinum are each limited to 25 watches.
◉ Art meets mechanics: A sculpted goat, miniature painting and grand feu enamel transform the dial into a miniature artwork.
◉ Time without hands: The automatic Calibre 2460 G4 displays hours, minutes, day and date through four peripheral apertures.
A Zodiac Edition Takes Shape
The new Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Goat collection marks the approach of Lunar New Year in February 2027. The goat, the eighth animal in the Chinese zodiac, becomes the central figure in two distinct interpretations.
The first reference, 86073/000R-H105, features an 18-karat pink-gold case and a matching gold goat. The second, 86073/000P-H104, uses a 950-platinum case with a white-gold relief sculpture.
Each edition is limited to 25 pieces, making the collection a small-scale release aimed at collectors drawn to artistic watchmaking and culturally significant designs.
The Craft Behind the Dial
The defining feature is a three-dimensional goat standing on a rocky base. Artisans hand-engrave the figure before applying patination and miniature enamel details to create depth and subtle variations in colour.
Behind the sculpture, a multicoloured grand feu enamel landscape incorporates miniature-painted foliage. The enamel is fired at temperatures exceeding 800°C, requiring careful control throughout the process. The combination of sculpted metal, painted detail and layered enamel gives the dial the character of a miniature decorative artwork rather than a conventional watch face.
The restrained time display leaves the central scene unobstructed, placing craftsmanship at the heart of the design.
An Unconventional Time Display
Both models use Vacheron Constantin’s self-winding Calibre 2460 G4. Instead of traditional hands, four peripheral apertures indicate the trailing hours and minutes, alongside jumping day and date displays.
The movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and provides approximately 40 hours of power reserve. It comprises 237 components and 27 jewels and carries the Hallmark of Geneva.
The watches measure 40 millimetres in diameter and 12.72 millimetres thick, with water resistance rated at 30 metres. A transparent sapphire caseback reveals the movement and its finishing.
The pink-gold version is paired with a brown alligator-leather strap, while the platinum model uses a dark-blue strap.
Cultural Heritage as Luxury Strategy
The release also reflects the role of cultural storytelling in high-end watchmaking. Zodiac editions connect mechanical expertise with symbolism, artistic traditions and a recurring calendar event, giving collectors a narrative beyond technical specifications.
Vacheron Constantin has developed its Chinese-zodiac watch series since 2012. Its latest release continues that approach through a combination of traditional decorative techniques and a distinctive mechanical display.
With production restricted to 50 watches across both references and prices available on request, the Year of the Goat collection occupies a highly exclusive segment of the market. Its significance lies less in production volume than in the time-intensive artistry and specialist skills required to bring each dial to life.
