Prestige de la France Vacheron Constantin has always had a close relationship with France particularly during the Art Deco period and the remarkable and prolific collaboration with Verger Frères. These ties grew even stronger during the 1970s as Vacheron Constantin was awarded the “Prestige de la France” on June 23 1972. During a reception at Paris Ritz Hotel attended by Mr. François-Xavier Ortoli the Minister of “Développement industriel et scientifique” the “Prestige de la France” diploma was awarded to Mr Jaques Ketterer Président-Directeur general of Vacheron Constantin by M. Louis W. Christaens President of the “Comité de prestige et de propagande nationale” The collection of curved and asymmetrical watches that became known as the “Prestige de la France” collection was given the supreme privilege of being allowed to engrave the emblem of the association - a laurel-leaf crown surrounding the words “prestige de la France” - on the watch cover. This creation of Vacheron Constantins Paris bureau is one of the few truly memorable creations of the 1970s a period which was less rich in noteworthy designs than others. In 1999 Vacheron Constantin re-offered the collection naming it “1972”.