New Release
AnthonyTsai's live report from SIHH 2009 offers an immediate and detailed look at Vacheron Constantin's new models, providing crucial first impressions for collectors. This article captures the excitement of a major industry event, showcasing key releases like the Patrimony Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Chronograph and the ultra-thin Open-Worked Skeleton. It serves as an excellent historical snapshot of Vacheron Constantin's offerings from over a decade ago.
The Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 is a distinctive reinterpretation of a cushion-shaped watch originally produced by the manufacture for the American market in the 1920s. This reference is characterized by its unique diagonal display, with the crown positioned at the 1 o'clock position and the dial rotated 45 degrees clockwise. This design was historically intended to allow drivers to read the time without removing their hands from the steering wheel, offering both a functional and aesthetically unconventional presentation within the Historiques collection.
This particular iteration of the American 1921 features a case crafted from precious metal, often rose gold, with a polished finish that highlights its cushion shape and stepped bezel. The watch is typically fitted with a manual-winding mechanical movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back, providing a power reserve suitable for daily wear. The crystal protecting the dial is also sapphire, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance.
The American 1921 appeals to collectors seeking pieces with historical provenance and an unconventional design. Its distinctive orientation and vintage inspiration make it a conversation piece and a unique offering within Vacheron Constantin's contemporary lineup. Various sizes have been produced, catering to different wrist preferences while maintaining the core design principles of the original 1921 model.
With the new caliber 4400 used also in the Americaine 1921. The perfect size for this type of watch. Thanks to Vacheron for not having done it in a case too large.
I already did a small report about this watch before the SIHH so here are the pics taken in Geneva : An excellent SIHH for Vacheron this year. Fr.Xavier
Anthony, when you mentioned the 20 hours to skeletonize the automatic watch, was that just time spent by the engraver? I would think that the electro-spark milling of the movement parts and subsequent preparation for engraving would take some significant time too.
Did I miss this before? I don't remember seeing the seven-notches for unscrewing the caseback before. A
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