Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1957 Reference No: 6038 Movement No: 528'226 Case No: 360'716 Material: 18k yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, P1019/1 Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Vacheron Constantin pin buckle Dimensions: 35mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives.
Catalogue Essay
This Vacheron Constantin reference 6038 is one of the most appealing examples of this timeless classic from the late 1950s. It is powered by calibre P1019-1, which is double-stamped with the Geneva seal.
The well-preserved case, which has a screw back and a diameter of 35 mm, is popular due to its masculine proportions. The dial, on the other hand, is the watch's most distinctive feature and a work of art, two-toned off white, with etched beads as minute marks on the outside. Faceted baton or faceted roman numerals (at 12, 3, 6, and 9) are used as hour markers. The gold appliqué stars outside the roman numerals are the most notable and uncommon feature.
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.