Associates

Whilst a Vacheron Constantin watch is above all an instrument for reading the time, it is also a masterpiece of technical and aesthetic achievement, a symbol of social status and a genuine work of art. Because of these inherent qualities, Vacheron Constantin became one of the preferred suppliers of haute horology and high jewellery timepieces to the Maharajas in the 19th century. With the inauguration of its Delhi boutique in 2010, Vacheron Constantin now has a permanent presence in India.

Vacheron Constantin can first trace their ties to the Indian market through an order made by J.G. Hanhart from Kolkata in 1849. Twenty years later, Jacques-Bathélémy Vacheron’s grandson, John Roux, traveled to Mumbai for prospection. He returned to Geneva in 1872 with several orders in his briefcase. In the following years, many more fine watches were ordered by Maharajas, such as those owned by H.H. Maharaja Sahib Bahadur, H.H. the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, H.H. Maharaja Rana Bahadur of Dholpur and H.H. the Maharaja of Patiala, whose lady's wristwatch is pictured below.

Showing their continuing dedication to the arts in India, Vacheron Constantin partnered with Tasveer to put together 'Maharajas', an exhibition of 28 vintage photographic portraits of Indian royalty from the turn of the last century. 



Lady’s wristwatch, 1916.

Platinum, brilliant-cut diamonds, silvered dial. Openworked and engraved case,
bead-set diamonds, millegrain decoration. Dimensions: 6.5 x 6 cm.

Caliber RA 6’’, curved baguette-shaped, in German silver, lever escapement,
cut bimetallic compensation balance, flat balance-spring, simple adjustment index,
18 jewels.

Formerly in the collection of H.H. Sir Bhupindra Singh, Maharajah of Patiala.