Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1985 Reference No: 43031 Movement No: 709'202 Case No: 569'115 Material: Platinum Calibre: Automatic, cal 1120, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Platinum Vacheron Constantin bracelet measuring 200mm max Clasp/Buckle: Platinum Vacheron Constantin concealed buckle Dimensions: 36mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1985.
Catalogue Essay
Vacheron Constantin’s ref 43031 perpetual calendar was launched in 1984 - at a time the Swiss watch industry was just recovering from the quartz crisis. An extremely classic round stepped case, with elegant curves paired with a clean dial indicating the months on a 4 year cycle and a gorgeous lapis lazuli moonphase, defined the models design code.
The watch was available in a variety of case metals and dials but none was ever as flamboyant as the present iteration in platinum with platinum “basket weave” bracelet and diamond and sapphire set minute markers, giving the ensemble a remarkable and unique aura of stealth glamour. Giving life to this gem of horological design is Vacheron Constantin’s extra slim caliber 1120.
Research shows that less than five reference 43031 in platinum with diamond and sapphire set dials are known making the present piece extremely collectible.
The 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.
Ref. 43031 An incredibly rare and attractive platinum perpetual calendar wristwatch with lapis lazuli moonphase with diamond and sapphire set dial, less than 5 known
1985 36mm Diameter Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
