Among the many watch-loving cities of the world, there is no question that Miami is unique in its vibrance, its energy, and its spirit. For a city so central to arts and culture, it comes as no surprise then, that Miami was chosen as the home for Vacheron Constantin’s latest, and grandest, flagship boutique in the United States. Vacheron Constantin’s largest boutique in the Americas comes in celebration of the Maison’s nearly two-century-long history in the U.S., and just as Vacheron Constantin is launching the first-ever Concours d’Élégance Horlogère. The new space seamlessly blends Vacheron Constantin’s 270 years of innovation and craftsmanship with Miami’s dynamic Art Deco character.
To mark the moment, Hodinkee and Vacheron Constantin hosted an evening of watches, cocktails, and an exclusive panel conversation featuring a who’s who of high horology: Ben Clymer, Founder of Hodinkee; Alexander Schmiedt, President of Vacheron Constantin Americas; Morgan Maillard, Style & Heritage Expert at Vacheron Constantin; and Paul Boutros, Head of Watches, Americas at Phillips. In a dynamic discussion, the four touched on their personal connections to Vacheron, what makes the brand so special, and the ultimate refinement of traditional watchmaking.
A real highlight of this panel conversation was the emphasis it placed on the human element at Vacheron Constantin. “True luxury is something made by a person, for a person,” reflected Alexander Schmiedt, “Human touch is rarer and rarer.” It’s a quiet truth spoken out loud, and one that defines Vacheron resonance among its peers. Turning toward the watches, the panel lingered thoughtfully on Vacheron Constantin’s exceptional Les Cabinotiers and Métiers d’Art collections, both of which represent the genuine edge of what is technically possible in design.
While the space and the novelties were certainly top of mind for attendees, it was the collector community that shined the brightest, with some driving hours to make the event. Be sure to check out the gallery below for more of the unique pieces shared on wrists from the evening. Not only were modern watches out in full force, but Vacheron’s vintage catalog sparkled. For every piece whose long heritage could (and was) recited proudly, there were a number of eye-catching designs in the metal that didn’t seem to have any recorded provenance at all. Rumors of Vacheron’s off-catalog collection abound, and without any official confirmation from the Maison, one can hope the Concours brings more of these mysteries into the light.
Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Tourbillion with baguette diamond bezel and stunning, green Mother of Pearl dial. Possibly a cabinoitier piece or the rumored “off-catalog” selection.
The Traditionnelle Tourbillion reveals a display caseback and bridges fully inlaid with the same green Mother of Pearl as the dial.
“The watches are inherently rare,” added Clymer. Which may help to explain why Vacheron Constantin has used this moment to mark the inaugural edition of the Concours d’Élégance Horlogère. The Concours has already been a tremendous success, turning up pieces long thought lost, and which may not have extant siblings. Submissions for Concours d’Élégance Horlogère will continue to be accepted through the end of April 2026. 35 selections will be announced as finalists in Geneva this November.
Back in Miami, guests left a space geared toward the serious enthusiast. This isn’t just for the current catalog; between the “Watchmaking Wall” and the sprawling “270 Motions” mural by artist Pablo Tomek, the space feels like a living archive. It is a collaborative celebration of those who understand the effort that it takes to make excellence.
This event was produced in partnership with Vacheron Constantin.
