Vacheron Constantin - The New York Watch Auction: XI New York Saturday, December 7, 2024 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin
    Year: Circa 1950
    Reference No: 4072
    Movement No: 466’644
    Case No: 321’613
    Material: 18K pink gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. V492, 19 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold pin buckle
    Dimensions: 35mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Chronograph wristwatches are one of the most cherished complications found today, and while originally meant as a tool for timing purposes, modern collectors appreciate the function for its utilitarian purpose and classic design that is sporty and luxurious. Vacheron Constantin’s reference 4072 is a wonderful example of the golden age of mid-20th century horology.

    The model was in production from 1938 until the late 1960s. It was a diverse chronograph series most often cased in yellow gold but also in pink gold like the present watch, stainless steel, or steel-and-gold combinations. Over the years, three different 13’’ ligne chronograph calibers were featured, the V295 with 45-minute counter, and the V492 and V434, like the present watch, with 30 minute register.

    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. The present pink gold model is a well-preserved and attractive example of this notable vintage timepieces.

  • 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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Ref. 4072
An attractive and well-preserved pink gold chronograph wristwatch with telemeter and tachymeter scales

Circa 1950
35mm Diameter
Case, dial, and movement signed

Estimate
$20,000 - 40,000 
CHF17,600-35,200
€18,700-37,500
HK$155,000-311,000

Sold for $53,340

Contact Specialist

Paul Boutros
Deputy Chairman, Watches, 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: XI

New York Auction 7 - 8 December 2024