The new Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication by renowned Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin has redefined the limits of mechanical watchmaking.
This unique wristwatch tracks the position of the sun, plays melodies through four miniature gongs, and tells when certain stars will be visible from Earth, according to CNN.
A milestone in haute horlogerie
Renowned for its tradition and innovation, Vacheron Constantin has created the most complicated mechanical wristwatch in the world, setting a new standard in the industry. According to CNN, in watchmaking, a “complication” refers to any function beyond basic timekeeping, such as calendars or moon phase displays. The new model boasts a record 41 complications.
Revolution in design and engineering
Unveiled at the Watches and Wonders fair in Switzerland, the Solaria Ultra Grand Complication features 1,521 components and is protected by 13 patent applications, seven of which relate to its chiming mechanism.
This model displays three distinct forms of time:
- Standard 24-hour day.
- Sidereal time, based on Earth’s rotation (about four minutes shorter than a calendar day).
- Solar day, adjusted to the planet’s elliptical orbit.
Additionally, its astronomical functions track the sun’s position, altitude, trajectory, and angle relative to the Earth’s equator. A rotating display features the 13 zodiac constellations, allowing adjustments to show when stars will be visible.
Precious materials and exclusivity
The case is crafted in 18-karat white gold and adorned with over 200 gems, including sapphire disks. Its development took eight years and is described by the brand as a “masterpiece of innovation.”
Breaking records
Vacheron Constantin also holds the record for the most complicated pocket watch in the world, the Berkley Grand Complication, with 63 complications, including a Chinese perpetual calendar. However, the size difference between a pocket watch and a wristwatch makes the new Solaria Ultra Grand Complication a true engineering challenge. With a diameter of just 45 mm, its design required innovative solutions to maintain both comfort and sophistication.
The future of fine watchmaking
Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Director of Style and Heritage, stated that the goal was to integrate all major complications — timekeeping, calendar, chronograph, and chiming — into one compact structure. According to him, “thanks to this construction, it was possible to create a wristwatch with harmonious proportions.”
The Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication is not just a watch — it is a milestone in horological history, combining art, science, and engineering like never before.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
