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Both have a stepped case, which elevates the gem-setting both aesthetically speaking and physically. The diamonds on the front may be beautiful, but it’s the side view of the case that surprises and captivates, with its neatly lined-up rows of pave-set gems. The crown, in both models, is set with a single diamond, while a further 46 diamonds encircle the tourbillon carriage, and the folding clasp is studded with another 36 diamonds.

This is the first time Vacheron Constantin has produced a self-winding tourbillon for ladies. At the heart of the watch is the in-house calibre 2160, which has an 80-hour power reserve and was unveiled in 2018 along with the very first Traditionnelle Tourbillon. At just 5.65mm, the movement is impressively thin, which has resulted in a case thickness of just 11.22mm—perfectly proportioned for the feminine wrist.

The exposed tourbillon mechanism, which has a carriage shaped like the Maltese cross, adds to the elegance of this timepiece. It operates at a low 2.5 Hertz frequency, enabling the wearer to admire the steady beating of the mechanism.

We dare say the new diamond-set Traditionnelle Tourbillon is a spectacular combination of looks and substance in a glorious timepiece—and that applies to both versions of it. As much as jewellery watches are designed to be showy, this one makes an impression with a dose of refined classical elegance that’s not often seen.

(Related: Editor's Note: High Watchmaking is Not Dead in 2020)