VC Traditionnelle 80172 vs PP Grand Complication 5316

quattro · 2026-05-20T10:40:04Z

Compare Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Ref. 80172 and Patek Philippe Grand Complication Ref. 5316 minute repeater tourbillon perpetual calendar watches. Which triple complication reigns supreme?

quattro

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

32 replies1057 views11 photos

Emmanuel, known as quattro, initiates a compelling comparison between two horological titans: the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Ref. 80172/000R-9300 and the Patek Philippe Grand Complication Ref. 5316/50P-001. This discussion delves into the nuanced preferences collectors hold when evaluating minute repeater tourbillon perpetual calendar timepieces, highlighting how aesthetic and technical details influence such high-stakes decisions. Emmanuel's personal preference for the VC, despite its larger size, sets the stage for a rich community debate on ultimate grand complication ownership.

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Here are two Minute Repeater Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar timepieces:

Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Ref. 80172/000R-9300 - 44 x 13.54 mm pink gold case - Manual-winding caliber 2755 QP (40 jewels - 18,000 semi-oscillations/hour - 2.5 Hz)

Patek Philippe Grand Complication Ref. 5316/50P-001 - 40.2 x 13.3 mm platinum case - Manual-winding caliber R TO 27 PS QR (28 jewels - 21,600 semi-oscillations/hour - 3 Hz)

Which one is your favorite?

I prefer rear tourbillons, but the transparent aesthetic of the PP doesn't appeal to me and I prefer the movement architecture of the VC: so, the VC is my personal favorite here, despite the large case size.

Best, Emmanuel

credit: @horology_ancienne (Patek Philippe) & @smooth_bezel + @antiquorum (Vacheron Constantin)

To hear the Patek Philippe chiming, check @horology_ancienne's post: click here.

To hear the Vacheron Constantin chiming, see the video below.

Vacheron Constantin, ref.80172/000R-9300 by Antiquorum

Key Points from the Discussion

The Blancpain Grande Double Sonnerie is introduced as a strong alternative in the triple complication category, suggesting that collectors in this segment consider options beyond the immediate comparison.
A strong aversion to transparent or 'smoked' sapphire dials is expressed, particularly when they reveal calendar mechanisms through the main dial, a design choice seen in both Patek Philippe and some A. Lange & Söhne models.
The Vacheron Constantin's dial, despite its unique aesthetic, is personally appealing to the original author, contrasting with the general dislike for transparent dials.
The tactile experience and acoustic quality are critical factors, with a suspicion that the Patek Philippe might offer a superior fit on the wrist and a better chime, despite the visual appeal of the Vacheron Constantin.
For watches in this ultra-high price range, every detail must be perfect to justify the investment, underscoring the demanding standards of collectors.

The Discussion

amanico

May 20, 2026

As much as I love Vacheron, here my favorite will be the Patek.

quattro

May 20, 2026

I understand your preference.

Best, Emmanuel

dedestexhes

May 20, 2026

Neither of the two. The Vacheron dial is just awkward, the Patek let’s me completely cold

If you’re looking into this price range, for the mere mortal, everything needs to be perfect! Dirk

quattro

May 20, 2026

I feel the same way concerning the Patek and concerning the mandatory perfection at such a price range.

Concerning the dial of the VC, I feel differently: I find it interesting and quite nice. Best, Emmanuel

Ronald Held

May 20, 2026

One more neither. (nt)

quattro

May 20, 2026

I definitely understand why.

Best, Emmanuel

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