First introduced in 1992 with the caliber 1755, measuring a mere 3.28mm in depth, this batch of references were the thinnest minute repeaters made by Vacheron Constantin and were limited to just 200 watches. The majority were cased in the reference 30010 with traditional dial, and the reference 30030 with skeletonized dial; however, 77 examples were upgraded with a perpetual calendar and moon phase module. Remarkably, this was the very first time Vacheron Constantin produced a minute-repeating wristwatch with perpetual calendar and moon phase. Two repeating vintage pieces with calendar and moon phases are known, but they feature a simple triple calendar.
The reference 30020 is considered by many to be one of the most important models ever produced by Vacheron Constantin. The importance of this reference is fully understood when examining its case and movement construction. In fact, both are directly inspired by a vintage minute repeating reference made in the first half of the past century, the reference 4261, now one of the most coveted vintage Vacheron Constantin references. The case is a direct descendant of the 4261 case, defined by its iconic teardrop lugs and the thin, highly elegant overall construction. Its slimness, however, is just one of the fascinating aspects of its movement. It was inspired by the movement construction of reference 4261, and realized following “old school” construction techniques, the ébauches themselves being vintage stock.
The present watch, from 2000, is well-preserved and has an incredible chime. The reference 30020 is a reflection on Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to timepieces that are both technically impressive and aesthetically pleasing.