Vacheron Constantin and Paris Couturier Yiqing Yin Unveil Innovative Concept Watch with Embedded Perfume
In a groundbreaking collaboration, luxury watchmaker Vacheron Constantin and renowned Parisian couturier Yiqing Yin have unveiled a new concept watch that pushes the boundaries of traditional timepiece design. The highlight of the watch, named Égérie — The Pleats of Time, is a hand-embroidered strap embedded with microcapsules of bespoke perfume, a first-of-its-kind innovation in the world of haute horlogerie.
Yin, who designed Vacheron Constantin’s Égérie model in 2020, worked closely with Parisian perfumer Dominique Ropion and the brand’s creative team to develop a fragrance specifically for the timepiece. The result is a scent that complements Yin’s creative vision and adds a unique sensory dimension to the watch.
The 37-millimeter 18-karat pink gold watch features a mechanical self-winding movement made in-house, a main dial adorned with lilac mother-of-pearl and pleated engravings, and a bezel set with 58 round-cut diamonds. The calfskin strap, meticulously embroidered by hand with silk threads, is designed to release the fragrance with certain twists of the wearer’s wrist, creating a truly immersive experience.
The fragrance itself, a blend of honeysuckle, tuberose, ylang-ylang, orange, myrrh, and other elements, is meant to echo Yin’s exquisite attention to detail and sense of artistry. The innovative use of microencapsulation technology ensures that the scent will last for an extended period, although the exact duration remains uncertain.
In addition to the concept watch, Yin also designed a stunning gown to complement the timepiece. The fabric of the gown was produced using an ecologically sensitive nano-dyeing process that embeds metallic particles into fibers, creating a mesmerizing iridescent effect that changes color depending on the light and reflection.
The Égérie — The Pleats of Time watch debuted at the Watches and Wonders Geneva fair and will be displayed in cities around the world, showcasing the fusion of craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation that defines this groundbreaking collaboration between Vacheron Constantin and Yiqing Yin.
