In 2025, Vacheron Constantin marked its 270th anniversary with the launch of the Concours d’Élégance Horlogère, a global competition inviting collectors to showcase exceptional vintage timepieces from the maison’s extensive history. Organized in collaboration with auctioneer Phillips and watch specialists Bacs & Russo, the event aims to spotlight the finest examples of horological craftsmanship produced between 1755, the year of the company’s founding, and 1999.

The contest challenges participants to submit watches across seven categories: Striking Mechanism, Chronographs, Astronomical Complications, Multiple Complications, Chronomètre Royal, Métiers d’Art, and Design. A panel of international judges—comprising watchmaking experts, prominent industry figures, and collectors—will evaluate the entries. The jury is co-chaired by Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Legacy & Style Director, and Aurel Bacs, co-founder of Bacs & Russo.

While the competition culminates with winners announced in November 2026, the event’s principal objective extends beyond awarding prizes. It seeks to uncover rare and historically significant timepieces long held in private collections, some of which may have remained unseen for decades or even centuries. Among these are so-called “unicorns,” watches known to exist only through company archives but not yet located, and “legends,” timepieces rumored to exist without documentary evidence.

The initiative offers a unique opportunity for the public and watch enthusiasts to witness these horological treasures. A public exhibition featuring the 35 shortlisted watches is scheduled to take place in Geneva from November 4 to November 8, 2026. During this period, the judging panel will select winners from the exhibited pieces. The event presents a rare chance to see a curated collection of some of the most exceptional creations from one of the world’s oldest watchmakers, potentially including some of the elusive timepieces long sought after by collectors and historians alike.