Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1988 Reference No: 43031/1 Movement No: 733'035 Case No: 578'719 Model Name: Les Complications Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1120/1, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Vacheron Constantin pin buckle Dimensions: 36mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and pin buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1988, furthermore accompanied by Vacheron Constantin pouch.
Catalogue Essay
The present watch is fitted with the iconic caliber 1120. Originally conceived and designed by Jaeger-LeCoultre for top manufacturers in 1968 as the caliber 920, it was the thinnest automatic movement in the world at the time of its launch. It is the only movement that is shared by the holy trinity of watchmakers that is Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet.
Vacheron Constantin still uses this caliber in its current production, bridging the gap between vintage and modern wristwatches.
The present movement is modified with a perpetual calendar complication, which is particularly remarkable, considering how thin the case is. The case is furthermore preserved in excellent condition with a crisp hallmark on the outside of the case back.
The world's oldest watch brand in continuous operation since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin was the first watch company to manufacture movements with interchangeable parts beginning in 1839. Vacheron's watches are admired for their Latin-influenced case designs, well-balanced proportions and exquisitely finished movements of the highest quality. The Geneva-based manufacturer is known for their highly complicated masterpieces, including the King Farouk Grand Complication made in 1935, the Tour de l'Ile that was the most complicated serially produced wristwatch when introduced in 2005 and the 57260 — the world’s most complicated watch — made in 2015.
Key vintage models include minute repeating wristwatches such as the references 4261, chronographs such as the references 4178 and 6087 and the oversized Cioccolotone models such as ref. 4737. Collectors also appreciate Vacheron's Chronometer Royal pocket and wristwatches, as well as the '222,' the brand's first luxury sports watch produced from 1977 through 1984.