Vacheron Constantin

• cal. V434 manual winding nickel lever movement, 19 jewels, bi-metallic compensation balance, adjusted to temperatures • silvered dial, applied Roman and elongated baton indexes, two recessed engine-turned subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30-minute register, outer scales calibrated for pulsations and tachometer • 18k yellow gold circular case, raised sloped bezel, angular lugs, two rectangular chronograph pushers to the convex band, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Vacheron Constantin buckle   

Overall a rare and nicely preserved example. The movement is running, however it may require service soon. The dial shows some aging and a few spots on the outer scale, most noticeably at 9 o'clock. The case is scratched on the lower right lug. There are light to moderate scuffs from wear throughout and the band has oxidized a bit at the lower chronograph pusher.
"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."

The present lot is a well-preserved example of Vacheron Constantin's work in the middle of the last century, a golden era in Geneva watchmaking. This particular example bears the extremely rare combination of both pulsations and tachometer scale. Normally chronograph watches have tachometer and telemeter scales, or, less frequently, pulsations alone.

It is also interesting to note the similarity in design between the present example and models from the modern Vacheron Constantin Malte series. The distinctive angular lugs featured on the present example were clearly an inspiration in the conception of that collection. For an example from the modern Malte series, see lot 48.

Similar examples are illustrated in Cologni, F., Secrets of Vacheron Constantin, p. 238, and Lambelet, C. & Coen, L., The World of Vacheron Constantin Genève, p. 252.