Vacheron Constantin

• Cal. 434, manual winding nickel lever movement • three-tone dial, Arabic and baton indexes to the silvery-grey centerfield, white chapter ring calibrated for fifths of a second, outer silvery-grey chapter ring calibrated for pulsations, two engine-turned gunmetal grey subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30-minute register • stainless steel case further signed Staybrite, faceted bezel, rectangular chronograph buttons, snap back • case, dial and movement signed

The Peter Lin Watch Collection, Antiquorum New York, 2-3 December 2003, lot 214.

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial is stunning with its three-tone finish and beautifully preserved, and the hard enamel printing is fully intact throughout. The case is in very good condition throughout with virtually no signs of wear. The rim of the movement is stamped 541, corresponding to the last three digits of the case number. There is also an 18 in that location, which is repeated on the interior of the case back.The case is further signed by Staybrite. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please see Important Notices for further information.
"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."

With an Extract from the Archives confirming sale in 1942.

With its dramatic and stunning three-tone dial and perfectly preserved case, the present lot offers an extraordinary opportunity for the connoisseur. It is well positioned among the most important Vacheron Constantin vintage wristwatches.

Stainless steel chronograph wristwatches are highly sought after by collectors, existing in far few quantities than examples in gold. It is far more common for these watches to feature tachometer or telemeter scales, and an example such as the present with a pulsometer scale was likely made at the special request of a medical professional. It is exceedingly rare to find a piece of this aesthetic and horological importance; the present lot is a perfect marriage of beauty and technology.

A similar stainless steel chronograph with pulsations dial is illustrated in Lambelet, C., & Coen, L., The World of Vacheron Constantin, p. 252.