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837Σ

Vacheron Constantin

Ref. 43060/000J

Audubon Birds of America - Raven

A “new-old-stock”, exquisite and wonderfully attractive yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonée enamel dial, certificate and presentation box, made as tribute to Jean-Jacques Audubon’s Birds of America: Raven

Estimate
HK$240,000 - 480,000
€28,700 - 57,500
$30,800 - 61,500
HK$304,800
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Vacheron Constantin
Year
Circa 1997
Reference No
43060/000J
Movement No
798’985
Case No
682’196
Model Name
Audubon Birds of America - Raven
Material
18K yellow gold
Calibre
Automatic, cal. 1120/2, 36 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Crocodile
Clasp/Buckle
18K yellow gold Vacheron Constantin pin buckle
Dimensions
38.5mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Accessories
Accompanied by undated Vacheron Constantin certificate, product literature, cloth, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
The Vacheron Constantin Audubon “Birds of America” is a delightful watch that invites us to step back, take a deep breath and appreciate crafts that require time and patience.

The cloisonné enamel dial is inspired by the works of 19th Century American ornithologist, naturalist and painter John J. Audubon and his book Birds of America. He was notable for his expansive studies to document all types of American birds and for his detailed illustrations that depicted the birds in their natural habitats. His major work, a color-plate book entitled Birds of America (1827–1839), is considered one of the finest ornithological works ever completed. Audubon identified 25 new species. A series launched in 1996, Vacheron Constantin's created 10 watches depicting ten different birds paying tribute to the artist.

Proudly dominating the canvas of this timepiece is the incredibly intelligent ebony black Raven. Vividly sculpted by gold wires, the intricate work from the enameler brought this Raven to life as it is about to take flight off a scenery of bright greens and golden berries. Elegantly dictating time with equally sophisticated round golden markers, the dial boast an attractive rich cream hue that perfectly complements its yellow gold case.

Hidden underneath a hinged caseback revealed by the push of a button is a beautifully finished cal.1120/2 movement that bears the prestigious honour of a Geneva seal. The skeletonized rotor takes shape of the Maltese Cross and is further engraved with gorgeous details. Complete with its certificate and accessories, it’s the condition of the present timepiece that is exquisite. Covered in its original blued factory stickers, this is an exceptional “new-old-stock” example from its series. An absolute delight for collectors, here is a superb chance to add this artwork to your ever growing collection.

Vacheron Constantin

Swiss | 1755
The 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.
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