Vacheron Constantin ‘Tear Drop Lug’ 18K Gold ‘1946’ Gents Vintage Watch Serviced

Description: If you’re in the market for a unique Vacheron Constantin timepiece or a tear drop 40’s case watch, this vintage Vacheron is an excellent choice. Manufactured in the 1946, this rare dress watch features a distinctive case with much sought after tear drop lugs crafted from 18K Rose gold. Unlike traditional designs, the case is subtly designed, giving it an elegant, refined appearance. Recently serviced by a master horologist keeping accurate time with no issues to report, an invoice from the watchmaker will accompany the watch. Ready to treasure and enjoy! The polished front contrasts beautifully with the finishes on the sides, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship. The crown, adorned with the iconic Maltese cross emblem, the case bears the assay mark of 18K gold. The case back features a brushed finish on the flat surface. Measuring 30mm wide and 34mm long (including the lugs), the size reflects the understated style of 1940’s men’s dress watches. Please note the 30mm mid-case size is quite small compared to modern Vacheron Constantin watches. During the 1930s and 1940s, high-end Swiss watchmakers often produced smaller watches as a way to showcase their craftsmanship. This shift away from the larger dial formats of pocket watches reflected changing tastes of the era. The vintage acrylic crystal complements the soft, silvered dial, which has a subtle satin sandblasted finish. The raised rose gold indexes and simple baton hands enhance its timeless elegance. The vintage “Vacheron Constantin” and “Genève” lettering, in a font distinct from modern models, further emphasizes its vintage charm. This watch is a masterpiece of design and attention to detail, making it a perfect choice for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary vintage dress watch. This version maintains the key details while enhancing clarity and flow. In contrast to modern Vacheron & Constantin watches that can be purchased at various boutiques around the world, their vintage pieces are fairly scarce. Vacheron’s attention to detail and strict quality standards limited their production capacity in the mid twentieth century to very small numbers. The Dial: Signed Vacheron & Constantin Geneve. Silvered satin dial dressed with unique raised rose gold arrow and square markers with a matching gold baton handset. Auxiliary engine turned dial at 6 o clock in perfect working order. The dial is in good condition for the age with very small marks not noticeable unless under magnification. Please see photos. Original Crystal: In good condition for age. Original Solid Gold Case: Polished solid rose gold 18 carat round case featuring beautiful tear drop lugs measures 30mm without crown wide and 34mm in length including the lugs. Has surface hairline scratches associated with polished precious metals commensurate with age and wear. Lugs are in good overall condition. Original Case Back Cover Outer: Snap back brushed cover.. Clicks to close and opens with a satisfying pop, fits flush against case. Cover has surface hairline surface scratches associated with precious polished metals commensurate with age and wear - Please observe photographs. No deep scratches or dents. Original Cover Inner: Signed Vacheron Constantin Swiss DEPOSE Swiss assay marks 18K 0.750, 311580. In good condition. Original Movement: The Vacheron Constantin Calibre V458 is a historical movement produced by the prestigious Swiss watch manufacturer, Vacheron Constantin. Introduced in the early 20th century, the V458 is associated with high-end wristwatches of its time. The V458 is a manual-wind movement, reflecting the traditional watchmaking approach of its era. Known for its precision and finishing, it aligns with Vacheron Constantin’s reputation for crafting haute horology timepieces. It served as a base calibre for more complex watches, including those with minute repeaters or other complications. In its standard form as seen here, it features simple timekeeping functions with remarkable reliability. V458 movements feature hand-finishing, including Geneva stripes, perlage, and anglage, which are signatures of Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to quality. Bridges are beveled and polished, with engravings that highlight the brand. The Calibre V458 is part of Vacheron Constantin’s storied legacy, contributing to the development of luxury mechanical timepieces during a transformative era in horology. Signed Vacheron Constantin Geneve Seventeen 17 jewels Swiss V 458. High grade movement serial numbered 481*** dating to 1946 on the Vacheron date register . Recently serviced by a master horologist with no issues to report. Described “In superb order” keeping accurate time. The watchmakers service invoice will accompany watch. Original Crown: Signed with the Maltese cross. Push and pull crown is in good functioning order. Aftermarket Leather Strap Band/Gold Plated Buckle: Recently fitted good quality band and buckle. * Please observe photographs carefully as they form part of the description* Please note this Vacheron & Constantin is over 77 years old. Shipping DHL Express insured registered post World wide. Buyer is responsible for any taxes or duties due which may delay or hold up your shipment at the destination port. Additional Information; As the world's permier watchmaker, Vacheron & Constantin in certain sets the bar for what constitutes a world-class timepiece. Prized by royalty, heads of state, and prominent public figures, their timepieces rank in the top teir of the most exclusive and expensive in the world. Vacheron Constantin is the oldest continuously operating watchmaker, with production extending all the way back to 1755. It is considered part of the "Holy Trinity" of Swiss watchmaking, with Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe. The brand has always maintained its uncompromising pursuit of perfection on the inside and out of every timepiece to be released over the past 268 years. Vacheron Constantin has established itself globally, becoming highly regarded in both watch collecting circles and high society. Acclaimed for their superior skill with design and quality they have created timepieces for such nobles as King Farouk Of Egypt to whom they supplied reference 402833, a watch for Queen Elizabeth and many watches supplied to Kings, Queens, heads of states and dignitaries Worldwide. The elite Swiss firm Vacheron & Constantin has had as its motto “Faire mieux si possible, ce qui est toujours possible (Do better if possible, and that is always possible)".

Price: 2950 GBP

Location: Birmingham

End Time: 2025-01-14T21:17:18.000Z

Shipping Cost: 63.06 GBP