Storied Watch Manufacturer Vacheron Constantin Unites with The Met to Inaugurate a Series of Dynamic Initiatives
Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacturer, and The Met, New York’s premier art institution, have newly launched a meaningful partnership that encourages artistic innovation with the utmost respect for exceptional cultural legacies. The mission-driven alliance focuses on the preservation and evolution of arts education and mentorships for inspired creatives.
“We are thrilled to partner with Vacheron Constantin on an artists’ residency and other impactful educational programs that support our shared aim to nurture and support artistic expression, and broaden access for various audiences to art and culture in innovative ways,” said Heidi Holder, the Museum’s Frederick P. and Sandra P. Rose Chair of Education.
Louis Ferla, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, and Max Hollein, The Met’s Marina Kellen
French Director and CEO; photo by Paula Lobo, courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
In addition to the maison’s championing of The Met’s ongoing endeavors, essential collaborations such as an artist-in-residency program, educational projects, exclusive events, and the unveiling of Vacheron Constantin’s timepieces influenced by masterpieces of The Met collection are highly anticipated gems of the fruitful union.
Vacheron Constantin Renews its Artistic and Cultural Alliance with New York
“Establishing a partnership with the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art enables us to highlight our shared vocation for transmitting knowledge and preserving the arts,” explained the Swiss watchmaker’s CEO Louis Ferla. “Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to art and culture has always been an inexhaustible source of inspiration, permeating our freedom to create and express beauty in all our watches. The Maison’s ties with the United States and New York date back more than two centuries, with many of our finest creations having been made for American collectors and clients, such as the iconic American 1921. This partnership with The Met confirms our cultural and artistic attachment to this country, as well as our concern to preserve its expertise.”
The Charles Engelhard Court in The American Wing; courtesy of The Met.
A Shared History of Mentorship and Advocating for Arts Education
Founder of Vacheron Constantin Jean-Marc Vacheron dedicated himself to imparting the art of haute horology to an eager, young apprentice in 1755, sparking the house’s fierce commitment to artistry and technical expertise — which has endured nearly 270 years. Today, the “One of Not Many Mentorship Program” assists talented artisans who share Vacheron Constantin’s innovative spirit and pursuit of excellence, as seen in the breathtaking collections of Méters d’Art, Patrimony, Overseas, and Traditionnelle.
Its close partnership with Abbey Roads Studios allows young musicians to learn from distinguished professionals, while a prodigious collaboration with Chun Wai Chan, principal dancer of the New York City Ballet, grants blossoming talents a life-changing experience in the arts.
Photo by Maud Guye-Vuillème, courtesy of Vacheron Constantin.
In a similar fashion, The Met was founded in 1870 as a museum introducing significant art and art education to the American public. The celebrated institution currently spotlights global treasures spanning a comprehensive 5,000 years, with 29,000 educational programs and events held during the year. Immersive tours and workshops, fellowships, internships, and educator experiences inspire perpetual learning and a profound appreciation of the arts.
“We are delighted to partner with Vacheron Constantin and are grateful for their support of The Met’s mission, which aligns with the esteemed watchmaker’s own longstanding efforts to celebrate creativity and preserve artistic traditions. We look forward to collaborating on a number of unique projects that build on our mutual commitment to education and the arts,” said Max Hollein, The Met’s Marina Kellen French Director and CEO.
Courtesy of The Met.
Photo by Maud Guye-Vuillème, courtesy of Vacheron Constantin.
