The Lotos Club Hosts a Special Watchmaking Event Featuring Vacheron Constantin
On December 1, Members of The Special Events Committee of The Lotos Club, one of the oldest literary clubs in the United States, hosted their very first watchmaking event for Club members in New York. Approximately 50 guests attended the sold out event, many of whom were watch collectors and enthusiasts, to learn more about watches through the words of three venerable professionals in the world of watchmaking.
Hugues de Pins, president of Vacheron Constantin North America, Michael Clerizo, contributing watch editor for WSJ Magazine and author of the beautifully illustrated book, Masters of Contemporary Watchmaking, andFrançois-Paul Journe, legendary Swiss watchmaker and founder of F.P. Journe, were the evening’s presenters. Hugues de Pins spoke about Vacheron Constantin’s heritage and its dual expertise in high-complication watchmaking and Métiers d’ Art craftsmanship, linking timepieces to the world of arts. François-Paul Journe enlightened guests about the founding of his company and his personal passion for watchmaking and innovation, while Michael Clerizo gave an engaging speech about the history of telling time.
On display were timepieces from both Vacheron Constantin and F.P. Journe. In keeping with the theme of history, Vacheron Constantin displayed timepieces from its Métiers d’ Art collection, in particular the first of a three part series, the 2010 Maki-e collection which includes: Plum Tree and Nightingale, Pine Tree and Crane and Bamboo and Sparrow. In a tribute to its heritage, Vacheron Constantin presented the reinterpreted “Historiques American 1921” which was created in celebration for its first boutique in the United States and issued in a 64-piece limited edition, which is symbolic of the boutique’s address on the corner of Madison Avenue and 64th Street. Also on display was the new Patrimony Traditionnelle Caliber 2253 which features a tourbillon perpetual calendar and equation of time.
Guests were mesmerized by the gorgeous timepieces as well as the beautiful surroundings which were festively decorated for the holiday season. Upon arrival, while enjoying passed hors d’oeuves and cocktails, guests had the chance to engage firsthand with the speakers. Guests were then ushered to another room of the Club for a sit-down dinner which featured a French inspired menu in honor of the Genevan watchmaking’s French-Swiss heritage. The specially created menu featured Soupe d’Artichauts Perigourdine, Coquilles Saint-Jacques à la Fondue de Poireaux, Medaillions de Veau aux Girolles, Poires Roties au Roquefort, and Lotos chocolates and cookies for dessert. The evening concluded with Michael Clerizo personally signing copies of his book, Masters of Contemporary Watchmaking.
Like Haute Time? Join our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter @hautetime.
