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 spectacular Vacheron & Constantin diamond and white gold ladies cocktail/dress watch has a charming art-deco dial, surrounded by 40 individual diamonds, along with a beautifully hand-engraved case.
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 Case
The stunning, diamond studded framed case has beautiful hand-engraved sides and case-back and 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 case is externally signed ‘Vacheron & Constantin’ on the case-back, along with the serial number 248922 and an 18ct gold hallmark. The inside of the case-back carries a further hallmark.
The case measures 14mm wide, excluding the crown and 24mm in length. The watch is quite thin at 6.5mm, including the lens which stands slightly proud of the case. 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 Dial
The slightly off-white ‘art-deco’ style dial carries Breguet ‘1 – 12’ numerals which are complimented by original ‘Lancette’ style blued steel hands. The dial is signed ‘Vacheron & Constantin’ and ‘Geneve’ with ‘Swiss’ at the very bottom of the dial.
The dial design and case complement each other beautifully and also make the time quite easy to read for such a small watch.
We believe this to be a previously restored dial which has been carried out to a very high standard. It is in excellent condition with no marks or ageing visible to the naked eye.
The Movement
The Vacheron & Constantin 18 Jewel movement is original to this watch and it is in wonderful condition considering its age.
The movement is signed: Vacheron & Constantin, ’18 Jewels’ and ‘Swiss Made’. It has been fully overhauled and serviced by our watchmaker who reports it to be in excellent condition. We are therefore happy to offer this watch with our 12 months warranty*.
This type of watch is perfectly suited for evening wear and special occasions, but less so for everyday use. Watches of this age, even with this quality of movement may gain or lose up to 2 minutes per day due to their age. They will, however, run for at least 24 hours and are wonderful to wear, and own.
*Please note – our 12 months’ warranty is only applicable if the full list price is paid.
The Strap and Buckle
The strap fitted is a new, high-quality Brown Lizard skin strap, which we feel contrasts nicely with the watch. However, if a different colour or style of strap is preferred, please let us know and we will do our best to oblige free of charge. We carry tan, conker, dark brown and black in stock, in plain padded leather, crocodile skin or lizard skin, but can also obtain most types and colours of strap from our partners at ‘Watch Obsession’ within 48hrs. Please take a look at their huge range of 12mm straps if you wish, here. A plain buckle has been fitted.
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 1924. Detailed particulars are included with the receipt, along with our 12 months’ warranty* and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. This will also include our ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than totally authentic, or not as described, Vintage Gold Watches of London will offer you a full refund at any time”.
This watch comes complete with its vintage 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 and pass on a 3% saving to you. 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 
