Vintage
Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, presents a compelling comparison of two modern watches deeply rooted in their brands' heritage. He meticulously details the historical inspirations behind the Patek Philippe Ref. 5098P-001 and the Vacheron Constantin Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955, offering a valuable look into how past designs inform contemporary horology. His post serves as an excellent reference for collectors interested in the lineage of iconic timepieces.
The Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955 is a chronograph model that draws inspiration from a specific Vacheron Constantin chronograph reference from the mid-20th century. It is part of the Historiques collection, which reinterprets significant designs from the brand's heritage. This particular model is notable for its distinctive "cow horn" lugs, a design element that gives the watch its name and sets it apart from more conventional chronograph cases.
The case of the Cornes de Vache 1955 is crafted from precious metal, typically rose gold, and features the characteristic sculpted lugs. It houses a manually wound chronograph movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The dial layout is a classic bi-compax chronograph configuration, with a tachymeter scale around the periphery. The crystal protecting the dial is sapphire, often with an anti-reflective coating.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate vintage-inspired designs and the craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking. Its faithful recreation of a historical Vacheron Constantin chronograph, combined with modern manufacturing standards, makes it a sought-after piece. The Cornes de Vache 1955 is offered in various precious metal iterations, each maintaining the core design elements that define this distinctive model within the Historiques collection.
They both have a very strong vintage to them and yet are so different to each other. I hope you continue to enjoy both of them in good health. Marc
And strapped up beautifully.
I have the PP calibre as 25 21 / 176 T - do you recognize it by that name or is that something I should correct, do you know?
and, cherry on top, one can contemplate two very beautiful Geneva Seal calibers... Best, Emmanuel
The movement is sometimes referenced online as you have it, but I've never seen a Certificate of origin with this "176 T". For example, on this page ( https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2022/fine-watches-13/reference-5098-chronometro-gondolo-a-platinum ), Sotheby's writes 25-21/176, but the CoO says 25-21 REC "AIG.2" (which means 2 AIGUILLES=2 HANDS). And on the official lithography, the movement is called 25-21 REC... Best, Emmanuel
I’d be happy to own each one for sure.
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