WORDS
Ella Kirby
Private members’ clubs have seen a boom in the post-pandemic years. Of course, London has a rich history of gentlemen’s clubs, but a new wave of spaces that are centred around unique experiences, hospitality and networking – with an egalitarian ethos at their core – are redefining the club for the next generation. Luxury Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin has recently launched a standalone concept space, Club 1755, at 45 Old Bond Street – just a few doors down from the brand’s Mayfair boutique.
The name is a nod to Vacheron’s founding year (it is the world’s oldest watch brand still in operation) and the 200sqm penthouse space serves as a ‘vibrant hub’ where ‘art lovers, tastemakers and connoisseurs can come together, exchange ideas and share unique experiences’. Collectors and horology aficionados will find themselves in like-minded company at the new club, which features a number of plush lounge spaces, a fully stocked bar and even a sun terrace overlooking Mayfair. Connoisseurs of the finer things in life will no doubt be seriously impressed by Vacheron’s efforts to curate luxury offerings from equally prestigious names. This includes a bespoke backgammon set made by luxury board game manufacturer Alexandra Llewellyn, a selection of drinks curated by Berry Bros & Rudd, the world’s oldest wine and spirit merchants, and a choice of rare and collectible cigars to enjoy on the terrace provided by master of cigars Eddie Sahakian of neighbouring Davidoff St James’s. Keen to balance traditional and contemporary pursuits, Club 1755 will introduce a rotating art programme, beginning with the current exhibition, Geometry of Time, by award-winning British artist Nick Hornby. Fittingly, Hornby’s work explores the ‘intersection of art and horology’, and the exhibition (which will run until the end of August) will feature a collection of never-before-seen pieces. Charlotte Tanneur Teissier, Vacheron Constantin’s UK brand director, commented that Geometry of Time is just the beginning of, what she calls, an ‘extraordinary journey’. ‘We look ahead to a bespoke calendar of exclusive activities dedicated to our community members, including seasonal art exhibitions and tailor-made programmes. Club 1755 is a sanctuary specially crafted for Vacheron Constantin’s collectors and a community of like-minded individuals, where time stands still, and passions ignite.’ Vacheron Constantin Club 1755 (by appointment only), 45 Old Bond Street, London W1S 4AG |