Vacheron Constantin

18k, nickel lever movement, monometallic compensation balance, 19 jewels, precision regulator, adjusted to temperatures, metal dust cover, silvered dial, applied gold Arabic and dot numerals, two engine-turned subsidiary dials indicating constant seconds and 30-minute register, outer ring calibrated for 60 units, circular case with two round pushers in the band, unusual teardrop lugs, engraved monogram to the screw back, case, dial and movement signed.

The movement is running however it may require service soon. The dial appears generally clean with only light surface wear. The case shows very light wear and some darker patina to the bezel and one light scratch to the outside of the back beneath the monogram. The inside of the case back is stamped 346035. The watch is accompanied by an associated Patek Philippe reptile strap with 14k unsigned buckle and a Tiffany & Co presentation box. The engraved monogram to the case back reads "M.L.T." SALESROOM NOTICE: Please note that the present lot is accompanied by a Vacheron Constantin Certificate of Authenticity confirming production of the watch in 1955. The engraving to the case back is mentioned on the Certificate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

This model, Ref. 6087, was introduced by Vacheron Constantin in 1950. Production lasted for only eight years, during which fewer than 40 examples were made, making the present lot an extremely rare piece to appear at auction. This piece is further enhanced by its excellent condition and its freshness to the market: to the best of our knowledge, it has never been offered at auction before.

The case of the present lot was made by Charles Dubois, a casemaker based in Le Locle. He is also known for making high-quality cases for a number of Patek Philippe waterproof models.