1081Σ︎
Vacheron Constantin
Ref. 4218
A well-preserved and attractive yellow gold wristwatch with center seconds, teardrop lugs and two-tone champagne dial
Full-Cataloguing
- Signature teardrop lugs
- Well-preserved hallmarks on the case
- Case made by Wenger
- Kept in a single collection for over 20 years
“Teardrop” lugs have become a signature of Vacheron Constantin’s historical case language. First seen in the late 1930s, the motif appeared across a range of models — from time‑only pieces to triple calendars and minute repeaters — and remains strongly associated with the maison’s classical aesthetic.
The present watch, in superb condition and kept in a single collection for over 20 years, is a rare yellow‑gold example featuring a charismatic two‑tone champagne dial that is beautifully set off by matching yellow gold indices. The result is an elegant, warm palette that reads both refined and distinctive on the wrist.
Measuring 35.5 mm, the case was produced by the legendary casemaker Wenger (Key Number 1), whose work supplied many high‑end watchmakers. The slim profile and minimal bezel give the watch notable wrist presence and a larger visual footprint than the diameter might suggest. Hallmarks on the caseband and lugs remain crisp and well preserved — an impressive state for a watch approaching eight decades of age.
Beneath the dial a superbly finished movement animates the piece: beautifully polished angles and Côtes de Genève finishing demonstrate the high level of workmanship that will appeal to the Vacheron‑enthusiast seeking vintage refinement and horological quality.
Vacheron Constantin
Swiss | 1755The world's oldest watch brand in continuous operation since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin was the first watch company to manufacture movements with interchangeable parts beginning in 1839. Vacheron's watches are admired for their Latin-influenced case designs, well-balanced proportions and exquisitely finished movements of the highest quality. The Geneva-based manufacturer is known for their highly complicated masterpieces, including the King Farouk Grand Complication made in 1935, the Tour de l'Ile that was the most complicated serially produced wristwatch when introduced in 2005 and the 57260 — the world’s most complicated watch — made in 2015.
Key vintage models include minute repeating wristwatches such as the references 4261, chronographs such as the references 4178 and 6087 and the oversized Cioccolotone models such as ref. 4737. Collectors also appreciate Vacheron's Chronometer Royal pocket and wristwatches, as well as the '222,' the brand's first luxury sports watch produced from 1977 through 1984.