Vacheron Constantin - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII Hong Kong Friday, May 24, 2024 | Phillips

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  • Condition Report

  • Description

    View our Conditions of Sale.

  • Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin
    Year: Circa 1997
    Reference No: 43060/000J
    Movement No: 798’985
    Case No: 682’196
    Model Name: Audubon Birds of America - Raven
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1120/2, 36 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Vacheron Constantin pin buckle
    Dimensions: 38.5mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by undated Vacheron Constantin certificate, product literature, cloth, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The Vacheron Constantin Audubon “Birds of America” is a delightful watch that invites us to step back, take a deep breath and appreciate crafts that require time and patience.

    The cloisonné enamel dial is inspired by the works of 19th Century American ornithologist, naturalist and painter John J. Audubon and his book Birds of America. He was notable for his expansive studies to document all types of American birds and for his detailed illustrations that depicted the birds in their natural habitats. His major work, a color-plate book entitled Birds of America (1827–1839), is considered one of the finest ornithological works ever completed. Audubon identified 25 new species. A series launched in 1996, Vacheron Constantin's created 10 watches depicting ten different birds paying tribute to the artist.

    Proudly dominating the canvas of this timepiece is the incredibly intelligent ebony black Raven. Vividly sculpted by gold wires, the intricate work from the enameler brought this Raven to life as it is about to take flight off a scenery of bright greens and golden berries. Elegantly dictating time with equally sophisticated round golden markers, the dial boast an attractive rich cream hue that perfectly complements its yellow gold case.

    Hidden underneath a hinged caseback revealed by the push of a button is a beautifully finished cal.1120/2 movement that bears the prestigious honour of a Geneva seal. The skeletonized rotor takes shape of the Maltese Cross and is further engraved with gorgeous details. Complete with its certificate and accessories, it’s the condition of the present timepiece that is exquisite. Covered in its original blued factory stickers, this is an exceptional “new-old-stock” example from its series. An absolute delight for collectors, here is a superb chance to add this artwork to your ever growing collection.

  • 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.

    View More Works

Σ837

Ref. 43060/000J
A “new-old-stock”, exquisite and wonderfully attractive yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonée enamel dial, certificate and presentation box, made as tribute to Jean-Jacques Audubon’s Birds of America: Raven

Circa 1997
38.5mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$240,000 - 480,000 
€28,700-57,500
$30,800-61,500

Place Advance Bid
Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2031
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+ 852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII

Hong Kong Auction 24 - 25 May 2024