8036
Vacheron Constantin
Ref. 86050/000M-9343
Quai de l'Ile, No. 1
An extremely rare limited edition tantalum and palladium semi-skeletonized wristwatch with center seconds, date and guarantee, numbered 1 of a limited edition of 100 pieces
Full-Cataloguing
- These limited edition pieces feature a case crafted from tantalum and palladium—a very rare combination in watchmaking. The tantalum offers a distinctive sheen and substantial weight, beautifully complemented by palladium, which is lighter and whiter than platinum. Together, these metals create a striking contrast and a unique color hue. Each piece would be numbered and engraved on the back, available at 100 Vacheron Constantin points of sale worldwide.
- The sapphire crystal dial is semi-skeletonized, incorporating advanced security printing technologies like secret texts, micro-printing, security inks and UV markings. Under UV light, a hidden sun motif glows on the dial, inspired by the clock tower opposite Vacheron Constantin’s Quai de l'Ile headquarters. The date wheel remains fixed, with a white triangle moving beneath the dial to indicate the date.
- Numbered 1 out of the 100 pieces produced, this watch includes its original guarantee and passport. This example also marks the auction debut of this reference at Phillips.
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.