Vacheron Constantin - The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE Geneva Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin
    Year: 1948
    Reference No: 4240
    Movement No: 457'970
    Case No: 294'178
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. V495, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Gilt pin buckle
    Dimensions: 35mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1948.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Vacheron Constantin has a long history of producing calendar watches. Its first identified complicated timepiece is a full calendar from 1790, and Vacheron Constantin made unique pieces during the following centuries. However, it was not until the launch of reference 4240 in 1942 that the full calendar entered the brand’s catalogue as a complication produced in series.

    The present reference 4240 is an incredible rarity as it is the only example known with black glossy dial and gilt printing. The gilt text shines through beautifully, the copper tone adding depth and charisma to the dial.

    The present watch displays a very attractive 35mm diameter yellow gold fluted case with wonderful downturned claw lugs. The red day and month are indicated via apertures and the date via a central hand.

    The case has developed a purplish hue due to oxidation, demonstrating the fact that the watch has not been worn for quite some time.

    The reference 4240 is one of the few vintage wristwatch designs by the firm featuring a triple calendar function, which was available with or without moonphase display. Because of its iconic status, the reference 4240 was relaunched in 2017 by Vacheron Constantin, in two versions again, with or without moonphase display.

    The combination of ultra-rare black dial and superbly preserved condition make the present Vacheron Constantin a tribute to the brand’s technical and artistic creativity, and is a must-have in the collection of every Vacheronista.

  • Artist Biography

    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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104

Ref. 4240
A fine and very rare yellow gold triple calendar wristwatch with and black lacquer dial

1948
35mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF20,000 - 30,000 
€17,800-26,700
$20,100-30,200

Sold for CHF36,250

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE

Geneva Auction 11-12 May 2019