Vintage Audemars Piguet Calatrava-Style VZSSc

Tony C. · 2013-07-27T10:08:07Z

Tony C. reviews his vintage Audemars Piguet Calatrava-style watch with a Valjoux VZSSc movement. Discover its design, movement details, and collector insights.

Tony C.

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

20 replies7346 views4 photos

Tony C. proudly presents his recent acquisition: a vintage Audemars Piguet that perfectly embodies the classic Calatrava-style design. Having just returned from independent servicing, this 35mm timepiece, powered by the esteemed Valjoux-based VZSSc movement, represents a significant addition to his collection.

Having just received this recent acquisition back from – ahem – independent servicing, I couldn't be more pleased. As the title of the post suggests, this model, to my mind and eye, embodies all of the classic design elements of the Calatrava line of watches made famous by Patek Philippe (and first introduced in 1932).

Housed in a simple, yet elegant 35mm case, is arguably the finest hand-wind movement ever produced by AP: the Valjoux-based VZSSc (the sub-second version was VZSS). Those who are interested in details about the movement can learn more from an article that I wrote recently:

ap.watchprosite.com

and (especially) from this excellent post authored by Suitbert Walter:

patek.watchprosite.com

Cheers,

Tony C.

(Thanks to Keaton Myrick for his usual excellent service, and for the first three images below.)

Key Points from the Discussion

The watch is praised for its elegant design and the inclusion of the interesting Valjoux-based VZSSc movement, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors.
The presence of shock-proofing on the balance of the VZSSc movement is noted as an interesting and less common feature, particularly in the center-second versions.
The acquisition of this specific watch was a replacement for a previous piece that was returned due to non-original hands, underscoring the importance of authenticity for the author.
A similar aesthetic and style can be found in vintage Vacheron Constantin models, particularly those in pink gold, offering a comparative perspective on classic dress watch design.
The overall simplicity and pristine condition of the watch, especially the VZSSc movement, are highlighted as key attractive features.

The Discussion

amanico

Jul 27, 2013

Top elegant, with an interesting movement. What else could you ask! Bravo, and thanks for sharing this true marvel. Nicolas

Tony C.

Jul 27, 2013

it is always a thrill to discover and acquire a really nice vintage watch, isn't it? Best, Tony C.

long71

Jul 27, 2013

First time I've seen that movement with shock-proofing on the balance. Interesting Conor

amanico

Jul 27, 2013

And honestly, I regret not having been able to go for it... Enjoy yours! Best, Nicolas

MichaelC

Jul 28, 2013

Excellent Tony. I know sometimes the dealings and experiences with a brand can change our opinions about things. I am glad you ended up getting this piece back. I can easily see your passion for it, and I was afraid it would have haunted you to have let it go. It looks so prisitine in these shots. Keep us posted, and Congratulations!!

Tony C.

Jul 28, 2013

this is a different watch. The one that I has sent to AP was returned to the original seller, as I had no tolerance for the non-original hands! Cheers, Tony C.

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Vintage Audemars Piguet Calatrava-Style VZSSc

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