Vacheron Constantin have been making very fine watches non stop since 1755, making them the oldest continually running manufacturer in the World. (Both Favre Leuba (1737) and Blancpain (1735) pre date Vacheron Constantin, but they have stopped making watches at various points in their histories)
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
We contacted Vacheron Constantin, and after sending detailed photos showing the reference numbers (and a sizeable payment!) they have sent us an Extract from the Archives, stating the watch was made in 1962.
CONDITION
In 1955 Vacheron Constantin celebrated their bicentennial anniversary by launching the ultrathin calibre 1003. At 1.64mm, this movement held the record for over 60 years as the thinnest conventional mechanical movement. The Calibre 1001K found in this watch was launched at a similar time, but with the addition of a sub seconds dial. It also proved to be very popular, and the modern Patrimony range of Vacheron Constantin watches hail for this very design.
The 18 jewel manually wound calibre K1001 movement is running sweetly and is a joy to behold – not that you can see it as it is cased in the 18k yellow gold case. Adjusted to five positions, and heat and cold, it is the pinnacle of watchmaking. Vacheron Constantin are consistently pitched as one of the big three, alongside Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. However, this is half the price, or less, that a Patek Philippe. This K1001 has the shock protection system that the earlier models lack, and the fact it is in the shape of a Maltese cross is very pleasing (despite the only person to see this is the watchmaker at service!)
This watch, model 6405, has an 18k yellow gold case and the etched pattern on the bezel is still clearly visible. The dial does have a few marks, clearly shown in the photos and video, but it is original and has not been repainted.
This watch will be supplied with a presentation box, Extract from the Archives and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any images, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and may not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 34.2 mm
Width without crown 32.3 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 38.9 mm
Case Thickness 6.5 mm
Bracelet maximum length n/a
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 6 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries via DHL Worldwide, which we subsidise. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information.
