99
Vacheron Constantin
Ref. 4178
A very fine and rare pink gold chronograph with "tear drop" lugs
- Estimate
- CHF15,000 - 25,000€13,200 - 22,000$15,400 - 25,600
CHF22,500
Lot Details
- Manufacturer
- Vacheron Constantin
- Year
- 1948
- Reference No
- 4178
- Movement No
- 466'366
- Case No
- 299'877
- Material
- 18K pink gold
- Calibre
- Manual, cal. 492, 19 jewels
- Bracelet/Strap
- Leather
- Clasp/Buckle
- Gold plated pin buckle
- Dimensions
- 36mm Diameter
- Signed
- Case, dial and movement signed
- Accessories
- Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1948.
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
Vacheron Constantin’s reference 4178 is not only one of the most recognizable and appreciated vintage chronographs but is also considered by aficionados to be one of the most beautiful.
In production from 1940 until 1964 reference 4178 was made in yellow gold, pink god, steel and a mix of steel and gold with a variety of different dial designs.
The present pink gold example with its lovely cream dial with raised enamel signature is void of any scales other than an outer seconds track giving the watch a wonderfully clean look.
During its production, the reference 4178 housed two different chronograph calibers: V492 and V434. Research shows us that reference 4178 housing caliber 492, as found in the present model, was made in only 108 examples in pink gold.
In overall extremely pleasing condition, this superb example of Vacheron Constantin’s design acumen is a must have for the collector of fine vintage chronographs made by the world’s oldest brand in continuous activity.
In production from 1940 until 1964 reference 4178 was made in yellow gold, pink god, steel and a mix of steel and gold with a variety of different dial designs.
The present pink gold example with its lovely cream dial with raised enamel signature is void of any scales other than an outer seconds track giving the watch a wonderfully clean look.
During its production, the reference 4178 housed two different chronograph calibers: V492 and V434. Research shows us that reference 4178 housing caliber 492, as found in the present model, was made in only 108 examples in pink gold.
In overall extremely pleasing condition, this superb example of Vacheron Constantin’s design acumen is a must have for the collector of fine vintage chronographs made by the world’s oldest brand in continuous activity.
Vacheron Constantin
Swiss | 1755The 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.
Browse MakerKey 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.