Vacheron Constantin Jumping Hours: 43040 vs 43041

amanico · 2022-01-22T18:09:00Z

Explore Vacheron Constantin's mid-90s jumping hour watches: the Heure Sautante Ref. 43040 and Saltarello Ref. 43041. A deep dive into their unique complications, case designs, and movement finishes.

amanico

WPS member · Vacheron Constantin forum

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In this insightful comparison, WatchProSite contributor amanico delves into two distinct Vacheron Constantin jumping hour references from the mid-1990s: the Heure Sautante Ref. 43040 and the Saltarello Ref. 43041. His detailed analysis highlights the unique aesthetic and mechanical differences, inviting collectors to appreciate the brand's innovative approach to time display during this era. Amanico's post serves as an excellent guide for understanding these rare and captivating complications.

I could recently see the Heure Sautante, ref 43040, which is the jumping hour in a round case and another jewel from Vacheron Constantin, from the mid 90's.

The other Jumping Hour is the Saltarello

As you can see, the time display only has one detail in common, the jumping hour. The minutes are retrograde in the Saltarello, while they are " mysterious " in the Heure Sautante.

The case shape is different, of course, and preferring one over the other is just a matter of taste.

The other big difference is that the Cal 1120 has a rotor which is differently decorated and finished.

Classic in the Heure Sautante,

Much more exquisite, in the Saltarello.

No need to say that I prefer the rotor of the Saltarello, which is more discreet, and let you see more of the superb Cal 1120 ( whose foundations / origins are " Jaeger Lecoultre-esque " ).

So, which one is the most tempting? As I said, it is a matter of taste. The round is for sure more classic, and I love the " mystery minutes ". It is also smaller, with a diameter of 36 mm. The Cushion shaped case of the Saltarello offers a nice blend of elegance ( dial ) and funkyness ( case ).

One thing comes to my mind: With such different offers, they might be an interest in getting both. Now you will have a problem: The Saltarello is limited to 200 pieces ( in white gold ) and, even if the Heure Sautante is not limited, this is not a bird which is easy to find.

Add a Mercator, and you will be in Heaven...

Aaah, these good relatively old Vacherons! They make your heart beat faster!

What is your favorite, then?

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Saltarello's distinctive cushion case shape and retrograde minutes offer a unique appeal that stands out amidst more conventional round watches, making it a preferred choice for collectors seeking novelty.
Both retrograde and jumping hour complications are highly regarded, with the cushion-cased Saltarello often favored, though the 'mystery minutes' of the round Heure Sautante also garner significant appreciation.
The Heure Sautante's design is notably inspired by early 20th-century pocket watches, particularly those by Robert Cart, connecting it to a rich horological heritage.
The choice between the classic round Heure Sautante and the cushion-shaped Saltarello often comes down to personal preference for case design and specific complications like retrograde minutes, with both references being highly desirable.

The Discussion

mdg

Jan 22, 2022

...both with beautiful cases. The Saltarello case is one of the all-time greats imho.

LiftAngle51

Jan 22, 2022

I like to discover all kind of complications. Retrograde and jumping hours are both interesting friends. My fave is the cushion VC, albeit i like the hidden minute hand of the round model too.

RabidManatee

Jan 22, 2022

Want to say the classic, round version from the front and the cushion case from the back..? It’s a decision I’d feel fortunate to have to make. No loser here, only winners.

Andy_Mac

Jan 22, 2022

….the Heures Sautantes for the win. So clearly inspired by Robert Cart’s original pocket watches of the early(ish) 20th Century. Beautiful watch 👊

Watchonthewrist

Jan 22, 2022

I think i will choose the Saltarello its a bit more different because of the case shape , something I really like. Also love a nice retrograde.

RabidManatee

Jan 23, 2022

Sautante pour moi, si vous plait.

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Vacheron Constantin Jumping Hours: 43040 vs 43041

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