The Golden Age of very Grand Complications
The article explores the current golden age of highly complicated wristwatches, which are equipped with features like grandes sonneries, split-seconds mechanisms, and astronomical displays. These watches, comprising over 1,000 components and multiple functions, cater to a niche market of wealthy collectors who appreciate the artistry and technical mastery involved in their creation. The competition among luxury brands is fierce, with historical milestones marking the evolution of these intricate timepieces, from early pocket watches to modern wristwatches that push the limits of watchmaking. Recent years have seen brands such as Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Blancpain introduce remarkable models that showcase a variety of complications. Noteworthy examples include Vacheron Constantin's Solaria Ultra Grand Complication with its 17 astronomical indications and Audemars Piguet's Code 11.59 Ultra-Complication Universelle, which houses an impressive 40 functions in a compact design. This surge in innovation reflects a period of unprecedented growth and desirability in the watchmaking industry, driven by technological advancements, an increase in wealth among the top earners, and a competitive spirit among luxury brands, solidifying this era as a landmark in horology.
