Vacheron Constantin - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX Hong Kong Monday, May 28, 2018 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin
    Year: Circa 1995
    Reference No: 43'050
    Movement No: 798'277
    Case No: 656'900
    Model Name: Mercator
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1120, 36 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Vacheron Constantin crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Vacheron Constantin double deployant clap
    Dimensions: 36mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
    Accessories: Accompanied with a wooden Vacheron Constantin presentation box, certificate of authenticity dated October 18th, 1995, setting pin, loupe, product literature and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The Renaissance was a period of enlightenment with exploration in the arts and sciences. Man sought answers to questions about his role in the universe, as well as his physical surroundings. This was a period of profound change and one of the inquisitive spirits of the day was Gerardus (Gerard Mercator) 1512-1594. A mathematician his interests ranged from geography, geometry and cartology. With his skills and knowledge, Mercator used first-hand observations and contemporary studies to create maps that today are recognized as being true to form. His 1569 map of the world changed the way sailors navigated the high seas.

    In recognition of his skill and abilities, Vacheron Constantin sought to honor this Renaissance man, commemorating the 400th anniversary of his death. The present watch is lovely example with an automatic movement and ingenious retrograde hour and minute counters that move over a graduated sector with hands stylized after compass legs. The 22K gold dial was chased by hand and enameled and represents Europe of 1587.

  • Artist Biography

    Vacheron Constantin

    Swiss • 1755

    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.

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FROM AN IMPORTANT ASIAN COLLECTOR

Σ837

Ref. 43'050
A fine and unusual yellow gold wristwatch with retrograde hands, made to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the death of Gerardus Mercator

Circa 1995
36mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$240,000 - 400,000 
€26,400-44,000
$30,800-51,300

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
thomasperazzi@phillips.com

Ziyong Ho
Specialist
+852 9386 2032
ziyongho@phillips.com

Jill Chen
Specialist
+852 2318 2033
jillchen@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX

Hong Kong Auction 29 May 2018