Vacheron Constantin, in an unprecedented move, has joined forces with Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo to establish the world's premier 'Concours d'Élégance Horlogère.' This groundbreaking competition is solely dedicated to showcasing the finest timepieces from the esteemed Swiss manufacture. Designed to honor the brand's illustrious legacy and the dedication of collectors globally, the inaugural event will highlight exceptional Vacheron Constantin pocket watches and wristwatches.
Vacheron Constantin and Phillips Host Inaugural Horological Elegance Competition
In an exciting development announced on January 15, 2026, Vacheron Constantin, in partnership with Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, revealed the establishment of the 'Concours d'Élégance Horlogère.' This marks the first time such a competition will exclusively focus on Vacheron Constantin timepieces, recognizing both the brand's profound historical impact and the passion of its collectors.
The competition is open to Vacheron Constantin timepieces manufactured between 1755 and 1999, spanning a wide array of historical periods and design evolutions. Collectors are invited to submit their treasured watches for evaluation across seven distinct categories, which include complicated mechanisms like chiming watches and chronographs, as well as pieces showcasing intricate métiers d'art and innovative design. Excluded from entry are quartz watches, clocks, and any heavily modified pieces, emphasizing a commitment to authenticity and original craftsmanship.
Entries will be rigorously judged based on nine critical criteria: authenticity, rarity, technical merit, state of preservation, and the intrinsic emotional impact of each timepiece. This comprehensive assessment ensures that only the most exemplary pieces are recognized.
A distinguished international jury has been assembled to oversee the concours. Co-chaired by Aurel Bacs, Senior Consultant at Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, and Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin's Director of Style and Heritage, the panel comprises a diverse group of experts. This includes prominent collectors, respected historians, influential journalists, and master watchmakers, such as Ben Clymer, Nicholas Foulkes, Wei Koh, Auro Montanari, SJX, and Felix Baumgartner, among others.
Registration for the competition will commence on January 19, 2026, and conclude on April 30, 2026. Prospective participants can submit their entries through Vacheron Constantin boutiques or a dedicated online portal. The culmination of this prestigious event will take place on November 10, 2026, in Geneva, following Phillips' autumn auctions, where seven trophies will be awarded. These accolades are purely honorary, designed to celebrate excellence rather than offer financial compensation, reinforcing the spirit of horological appreciation.
This initiative represents a significant moment for the world of haute horlogerie, providing a unique platform to honor the artistry, innovation, and enduring legacy of Vacheron Constantin. It also underscores the crucial role of collectors in preserving and celebrating watchmaking history.