WORDS
Gemma Billington
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 |