Vacheron Constantin - The New York Watch Auction: NINE New York Saturday, December 9, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin
    Year: 1943
    Reference No: 4178
    Movement No: 431’271
    Case No: 270’663
    Material: 18K pink gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 434, 19 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold Vacheron Constantin pin buckle
    Dimensions: 36mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle
    Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin leather presentation box. Further accompanied by Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1943.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Collectors consider Vacheron Constantin’s reference 4178 to be one of the most beautiful and perfectly balanced vintage chronographs ever produced by the brand. Launched in 1940 and in production until 1964, the reference is immediately recognizable thanks to its gorgeous and inimitable teardrop lugs with balanced proportions and near-perfect symmetry. During its production, the timepiece housed two different chronograph calibers: V492 and V434. Research indicates the reference 4178 housing caliber 434 was made in approximately 280 examples in pink gold, and examples with the champagne dial are extraordinarily rare. While many collectors associate Vacheron Constantin with their iconic 1970s 222 sports watch, they should also be remembered for their stunning chronographs of the mid-20th century. Along with the reference 6078 “Cornes des Vache,” the reference 4178 is a monument to memorable case design with a classic look that stands the test of time.
    The present watch is highlighted by a vibrant and harmonious two-tone champagne dial with aging and patina creating a warm appeal. The case is well proportioned with faceted lugs and sensual curves that collectors find so attractive.

  • 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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Σ62

Ref. 4178
A very rare and highly attractive pink gold chronograph wristwatch with two tone dial and tachymeter scale

1943
36mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement, and buckle

Estimate
$20,000 - 40,000 
CHF18,000-36,000
€18,700-37,400
HK$156,000-312,000
S$27,200-54,300

Sold for $34,290

Contact Specialist

Paul Boutros
Deputy Chairman and Head of Watches, Americas
+1 (212) 940-1293
WatchesNY@Phillips.com
 
Isabella Proia
Head of Sale, New York
+1 (212) 940 1285
iproia@phillips.com

The New York Watch Auction: NINE

New York Auction 9 - 10 December 2023