Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1944 Reference No: 4240 Movement No: 469'995 Case No: 283'926 Material: 18K pink gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 455, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold Patek Philippe buckle stamped PPCo Dimensions: 35mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1944.
Catalogue Essay
Vacheron Constantin has long been associated with the production of complicated timepieces. While the manufacture made unique calendar wristwatches in the past for their most distinguished clients, it was not until the launch of reference 4240 that Vacheron Constantin serially produced triple calendar wristwatches.
The present reference 4240 is preserved in excellent condition, with sharp hallmarks throughout and crisp edges. The dial displays charming patina, and is very well-preserved for its age. It furthermore displays a very attractive 35mm diameter pink gold fluted case with wonderful downturned claw lugs. The red day and month are indicated via apertures and the date via a central hand.
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.
