125Σ︎
Vacheron Constantin
Ref. 47070/000J-9085
Patrimony Tribute to the Great Explorers, Christopher Columbus
An exceptional limited edition yellow gold wristwatch with wandering hours, two-part cloisonné enamel dial depicting the travels of Christopher Columbus, guarantee, certificate of authenticity, and presentation box, one of a limited edition of 60 pieces
Full-Cataloguing
• Limited edition of 60 pieces
• Two-part cloisonné enamel dial depicting travels of Christopher Columbus
• Complete with all original accessories
Beginning in 2004, following the commercial success of the Mercator, Vacheron Constantin launched a 240-piece limited edition entitled “Hommage Aux Grands Explorateurs” and turned to their cloisonné enamel master artisans and originators of the Mercator model, Jean and Lucie Genbrugge to execute the vibrant and intricate dials. The explorers honored include Zheng He, Marco Polo, Magellan, and Christopher Columbus, and each dial features a historical map of their greatest geographic conquests. In the case of the present watch, honoring Christopher Columbus, the dial depicts part of the Caribbean, including Hispaniola and the Bahamas, where Columbus landed during his first voyage, Florida, and parts of South America including the Isthmus of Panama.
The dial is constructed on two distinct levels, both featuring cloisonné enamel. At the lower portion, an aperture accommodates a transparent sapphire disc, which carries the wandering‑hour numerals. As the disc glides imperceptibly beneath, the numerals appear in turn at the dial’s opening, elegantly indicating the time. TEntirely hand-painted, the geographical outline on each dial requires over 30 separate firing in the enameller’s kiln.
The watch is not only accompanied by all of its original accessories, but also a Certificate of Authenticity from Vacheron Constantin. It is in exceptional overall condition and according to our research, only the fourth ever example of the Christopher Columbus Homage to Great Explorers to appear at auction.
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.