Vacheron Constantin

Geneva’s Vacheron opened for business in 1755 and has been trading continuously for longer than any other watch outfit. “This is a company that has never compromised,” says Connecticut dealer Al Armstrong. “Unlike some of the other big-name firms, Vacheron never tried to compete with the cheaper watchmakers.” Their signature ultrathin pieces are built to last: The new Patrimony has a movement that uses almost microscopic ball bearings, meaning it doesn’t need lubrication. This extends the watch’s life?a good thing, since these models are meant to be handed down through the ages (or at least to be traded in when it’s time to pay off your gambling debts).