120Σ︎
Vacheron Constantin
Ref. 47101/2
Chronographe Historique
A rare and very attractive yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with black guilloché dial, fan-shaped lugs, certificate, warranty, and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
• Inspired by the legendary reference 4178 of the 1940s
• Powered by the caliber 1140, based on the Lemania 2310
• Highly uncommon black dial as most ref. 47101s were fitted with silver dials
The Vacheron Constantin reference 47101 occupies a pivotal position within the maison’s modern history, marking a triumphant return to the classical, manually wound chronograph at a time when such models had largely receded from mainstream production. Introduced in 1989, the reference signaled a renewed commitment by Vacheron Constantin to its mid-century design language—one rooted in elegance, restraint, and mechanical purity.
Drawing direct inspiration from the revered vintage chronographs of the 1940s, most notably the iconic reference 4178, the 47101 reinterpret these historic codes with remarkable fidelity. Its 36mm yellow gold case is defined by beautifully sculpted teardrop lugs, lending both visual dynamism and ergonomic grace to the wrist. The balanced bi-compax dial layout, framed by a precise tachymeter scale, reflects a level of harmony seldom achieved in contemporary watchmaking.
Powering the reference is the celebrated caliber 1140, a manual-winding, column-wheel chronograph movement derived from the legendary Lemania 2310 ébauche and beautifully finished by Vacheron Constantin. Revered among collectors and watchmakers alike, this caliber represents one of the finest chronograph architectures of the late 20th century.
Elegant, restrained, and deeply rooted in heritage, the reference 47101 stands as a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s enduring mastery of the classical chronograph. It is preserved in excellent overall condition and comes as a complete, collectors set.
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.