Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1978 Reference No: 44018/411 Movement No: 685’595 Case No: 522’156 Model Name: Jumbo 222 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1121, 36 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Vacheron Constantin stainless steel bracelet, max. length 160mm Clasp/Buckle: Vacheron Constantin stainless steel deployant buckle Dimensions: 38mm diameter Accessories: Accompanied by a Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the watch in 1978.
Catalogue Essay
Some of Switzerland’s most iconic watches were manufactured during the 1950s through the 1970s in response to the rise of sportsmanship following World War II. Audemars Piguet came out with the Royal Oak in 1972, Patek Philippe introduced the Nautilus in 1976, and Vacheron Constantin shined with the 222. Vacheron Constantin turned to Jörg Hysek for the design of their first truly sports wristwatch. The thin case has an instantly recognizable tonneau-shape with raised screw down bezel, all with an integrated link bracelet. The automatic caliber 1121, based on the legendary Jaeger LeCoultre caliber 920 – used in both the original Nautilus and Royal Oak Jumbo models – was an answer to those who did not wish to wind their watch on a daily basis. The reference 222, released in 1977 to celebrate the firm’s 222nd anniversary, was produced in gold, gold and steel, and stainless steel versions. The “Jumbo” size watch, the present lot, had a 38mm case, while the smaller size was 34 mm. The model was in production for seven years and made in 500 timepieces in all metal and dial combinations. Preserved in excellent, original condition, the desirable gray dial has aged gracefully, with luminous hour markers having developed an appealing dark beige tone. An exceptional and uncommon luxury sports wristwatch for the discerning collector.
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.