In celebration of its 270th anniversary, Vacheron Constantin has unveiled the Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication, a timepiece that sets a new benchmark in horology as the most complicated wristwatch ever created. This remarkable watch boasts an unprecedented 41 complications, encapsulated within an 18K white gold case measuring 45mm in diameter and 14.99mm in thickness. The development of this masterpiece spanned eight years, involving 13 patent applications and culminating in a movement composed of 1,521 components. 

A Testament to Horological Mastery

The Solaria Ultra Grand Complication exemplifies Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. Among its 41 complications are several groundbreaking features, including a Westminster carillon minute repeater with four gongs and four hammers, and five rare astronomical functions. Notably, it introduces a world-first complication that allows for the temporal tracking of celestial objects, enabling the wearer to calculate the time it takes for a specific star or constellation to appear in the observer’s field of view. 

Innovative Design and Engineering

Achieving such a high level of complexity within a wearable form factor required significant advancements in miniaturization and engineering. The in-house Caliber 3655 movement, despite comprising 1,521 components, maintains a thickness of just under 11mm. This feat was accomplished through meticulous design and the filing of multiple patents, particularly concerning the chiming mechanism and astronomical displays. 

Astronomical Complications and Timekeeping

The Solaria Ultra Grand Complication offers a comprehensive suite of astronomical and timekeeping functions. It features displays for civil, sidereal, and solar time, each with dedicated gear trains. The watch also provides indications for sunrise and sunset times, equation of time, sun height, and zodiac signs, offering a holistic view of celestial movements. Additionally, it includes a perpetual calendar, moon phase indicator, tide level indicator, and a split-seconds chronograph, among other functions. 

A Milestone in Vacheron Constantin’s Legacy

Unveiled at the Watches & Wonders 2025 event in Geneva, the Solaria Ultra Grand Complication not only commemorates Vacheron Constantin’s 270-year history but also reinforces its position at the forefront of haute horlogerie. This timepiece stands as a testament to the brand’s enduring pursuit of excellence and innovation in watchmaking. 

For a closer look at this extraordinary timepiece, you can watch the official presentation here:

 

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