Reference 4072 is one of Vacheron Constantin’s most iconic and sought after vintage chronograph models. In production from 1938 until the late 1960s, the present watch is an especially rare example considering its near flawless condition. Scholarship finds that only 214 yellow gold timepieces with the Vacheron chronograph caliber 492 were manufactured. Vacheron Constantin produced the watch with both the rare oval-shaped chronograph pushers, or as found on the present watch, with more modern, rectangular-shaped pushers. Furthermore, the 34mm case featured either the rare flat bezel or a bevelled one.
This particular reference 4072 is distinguished by its immaculate case preserved as it left the factory, and is further highlighted by the superb sunburst silver dial with black telemeter scale and elegant applied hour markers. The case appears larger due to the elongated and powerful lugs, as well as the wide dial opening. Scholars and connoisseurs consider Vacheron Constantin chronographs to be amongst the most beautiful ever made, offering exceptional quality, aesthetics and value. The present lot is amongst the finest and best preserved examples of the reference to appear on the market in recent memory, making it a trophy watch for the connoisseur.