Vacheron Constantin
One of the widely recognised ‘Holy Trinity’ of Swiss watchmaking, along with Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet, Vacheron & Constantin is the world’s oldest ‘Watch Manufacturer’ and as such, has remained in continuous operation since 1755. More than this, Vacheron Constantin is the founding father of a spirit of technical excellence which it has made an art form. This is known as ‘Haute Horlogerie’ where Vacheron Constantin has been in the vanguard for over 260 years. This tradition defines the ‘Manufacture’, evident in the finest quality execution, reflected in a finish which goes far beyond the demands of the ‘Poinçon de Genève’.
Description
This is a tiny ladies watch with an even tinier movement in typical ‘art-deco’ style. It is beautifully elegant and on its original bracelet which is attached to the watch by wonderful flying lugs. All the original fittings, including the catch, are in 18ct pink gold. This watch is completely original, unrestored and untouched and as can be seen, remains in wonderful condition.
The watch contains its original high-grade Vacheron & Constantin, 18 jewel movement which is in spectacular condition for its age.
The watch is correctly signed by Vacheron & Constantin on the dial, movement and case.
The Dial
The honey ‘art-deco’ style dial carries gilt standard Arabic numerals at ‘2 – 4 – 6 – 8 – 10 and 12’ which are complimented by original Breguet style blued steel hands. The dial is signed ‘V & C’ and ‘Genève’ at the very top, below the 12. The dial design and case complement each other beautifully and also make the time quite easy to read for such a small watch.
This dial is completely original, unrestored and untouched. Inevitably, it therefore shows some evidence of spotting commensurate with ageing. It is somewhat unfair, as here, to produce very large images of an unrestored dial because this example is, in fact, in remarkably good condition, showing a nice even patina with no pitting or scratches. It looks far more attractive and charming in natural light and on the wrist, rather than close up under studio lights and a macro lens.
The Movement
The Vacheron & Constantin 18 jewel movement is original to this watch and is in wonderful condition considering its age. This was one of the smallest movements made at the time.
The movement is signed ‘Vacheron & Constantin’, ’18 Jewels’ and ‘Geneve Swiss’. It has been fully overhauled and serviced by our watchmaker who reports it to be in excellent condition.
This type of watch is perfectly suited for evening wear and special occasions, but less so for everyday use. Small ladies Vacheron & Constantin watches of this vintage are not expected to remain as accurate as a larger watch or one with a more modern movement. We therefore typically see an accuracy of 30 seconds per day on these watches, while 1 to 2 minutes per day is not outside expected parameters.They will, however, run for at least 24 hours and are wonderful to wear, and own. We are therefore happy to offer this watch with our 12 months warranty*.
*Please note – our 12 months’ warranty is only applicable if the full list price is paid.
The Case
The stunning, beautifully small and elegant pink gold case remains in tip-top condition. As one would expect, this is a high-quality case, which from all appearances seems to have been very well cared for since there are no signs of wear, over-polishing, dings, scratches or other damage, visible to the naked eye. The rotating lugs and bracelet fitments enable the watch to sit beautifully on the wrist.
The case is internally signed ‘Vacheron & Constantin’ on the case-back, along with the serial number 263180 and an 18ct gold hallmark.
The case measures 12mm wide excluding the crown, and 22mm in length. The case itself and the hinge area in particular, have been carefully inspected for any weaknesses and none were found. We can therefore guarantee the structural integrity of this watch case. This, along with the general condition of the case, leads us to believe this watch has led a charmed life and has seen very little use.
As always, our standard advice applies: vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.
The Strap and Buckle
The strap fitted is a new, high-quality black cord material bracelet with the original pink gold double lock buckle and original pink gold fitments, which we feel contrasts nicely with the watch. The bracelet measures 6¾ inches or 17cm.
The Box and Papers
Although there is no original paperwork with this watch, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct, dating the watch to 1938.
Detailed particulars will be included with our purchase receipt for your interest and security. A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value of this watch will be provided at the time of sale along with our unique ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than 100% genuine, authentic and original, a full refund will be given at any time”.
This watch comes complete with a high quality hardwood presentation box, as shown in the photographs.
In Conclusion
A beautiful, rare, and highly collectable vintage gold watch from horology’s oldest continuous watch manufacturer, which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as be something to use, wear, treasure and enjoy!
If treated with care, this will make an excellent investment or family heirloom piece and even though vintage gold watch prices have risen markedly in the past few years, we still feel great examples such as this are greatly undervalued. As each year goes by and the world market for vintage gold watches continues to expand, prices will continue to climb ever higher.
We are happy to accept PayPal as this is the quickest method of payment. However, if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by UK bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this. Similarly, if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you with our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.
Please check the import duties and any taxes your government may apply, these are different for each country and unfortunately out of our control.
We understand there may be some ‘loopholes’ that may help you avoid these charges, however attempting to use these could impact our ongoing ability to serve our growing international customer base.
For those that happen to visit the UK on occasion we are of course more than happy to store your watch until we can meet you in our offices in Kensington, London, and your watch directly to you there.
If you have any questions please call us on 0207 727 7095 or if calling from overseas on +44 207 727 7095. We await your call and we will be happy to help with any questions you may have about this watch or any of our collection.
Please note, we also welcome part exchanges. We will also be happy to service your vintage watch or assist with repairs or restoration as necessary.
Please also take a look at our other fine vintage gold watches.
Andrew M via feefo 
3rd December 2024 
JLC1891 
