WHL
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When I first saw these watches in 2004 or so...
I didn't like the look of them at all, thinking them to be too large in diameter. I have since come around to thinking that it is perfect at 40 mm! The small movement doesn't both me at all, nor the fact that it is covered by a solid case back. That said, I am glad to have had the chance to take photos of the movement and share them here. We don't often get to see nice photos of the caliber 1400, and I think it is one of the most beautiful movement in current production from any brand. It is also a pleasure to wind up every morning.
Bill
My Patrimony Contemporaine
Until recently I have been an admirer of the Patrimony Contemporaine from afar. It exhibits all the characteristics that I find appealing in a Vacheron Constantin watch. It is elegant and beautiful and the attention to detail in the construction of the ca...
I am delighted to see this, Bill
You know how I feel about this watch, Bill, and so it makes me especially happy that you now have this special, perfect watch. So, I know you told me that the dial curved down slightly to quite good effect, but I did not realize that the space created by ...
Thank you, Robert....
I enjoying this watch very much. I like that it is limited, and quite unusual with the platinum dial, but I would still be thrilled with any of the standard models in the 81180 family. Bill
Still think that 37 / 38 mm would be a better size for the case.
To reduce the difference in size with the movement, and the visual impact of the watch, which looks very big in the real life. The dial is magnificent, though. Thanks for another nice review, Bill. Best, Nicolas.
When I first saw these watches in 2004 or so...
I didn't like the look of them at all, thinking them to be too large in diameter. I have since come around to thinking that it is perfect at 40 mm! The small movement doesn't both me at all, nor the fact that it is covered by a solid case back. That said,...
An EP for you just fits!
Hi Bill, That is a great choice you made! With your background, knowledge, and passion for VC - it only makes sense for you to wear a EP, and this one is truly representative of VC's DNA. Love it, it really was a great birthday weekend for you!!! Now....l...
It might be hard to get to five years with this one....
as there are still some other watches I want to experience owning, namely a QDI and an American 1921. Anyone wanna trade? Bill
Congratulations Bill for this very nice and elegant model
A remembering birthday for sure. Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm for this Excellence Platine model. Best regards, Patrickh
Thanks, Patrick....
I keep the watch in a leather watch wallet and it is like opening a gift every day as I unzip the pouch and pull out the EP. It is always more beautiful than I recall. Bill
Crystal back?
Does the Patrimony Contemporaine has a crystal back or you removed the back for the pictures? the web site does not mention this. Tks, Damo
All 81180 watches
have a solid case back. I had a watchmaker remove it for me so that I could take the photos. Please note that this is a preowned watch and off of the original two-year warranty period. To open up a watch still under warranty would be to void the warranty....
Very sad!!
Its very sad it is a solid back as the mechanism is really beautiful and well finished.. Damo
Nice one, Bill
Very nice indeed. Hope it brings you pleasure for many many years to come.
Thank you, Davo
I expect that have this one for a while...though as I hinted to Dan above, I am sure that I will eventually move on to another watch...or two... Bill
Congrats, Bill!
I have long admired the starkly beautiful dial on this watch. It's super elegant, and the movement has a sensuality in its design that I really adore. Great catch! Looking forward to seeing more of it! Cheers, Daos
Thanks, Daos.....
I would love to show you this watch some day.....though lord only knows when we might meet.....IGOTT would have been the best chance for that (and for you to see another nice watch in my collection that I recall you appreciate) Bill
Excellent choice Bill!
Hi there Bill! 1st of all how have you been? Never heard from you in a while. Next up! A huge congratulations on the acquisition of this wonderfully excellent piece! You know my feelings very well towards this CEP version! I shan't distract you one bit fr...
Thanks for the kind words, Stephen....
I well know your appreciation for the EP line, and your preference for manual winding movements therein. If you come across this EP 81180 I think you should jump on it. Bill
Great piece, Bill and I envy you already ;-)))
Let this one tick away the happiest times of your life, since it's over the hill now ;-))) Beautiful dial and pure Vacheron!
I know how much you like EP watches, Radek
I can't wait to see the EP that VC will release this fall. Bill
Great choice! If only it didin't have the sign PT950. [nt]
No message body This message has been edited by aridim1 on 2011-07-26 03:54:21
When the EP was introduced I was turned off...
by the PT950 on the dial, but I am not about to let that small design element take away from everything else that is so perfectly right about this watch. The PT950 doesn't bother me with my daily living with the watch. Bill
Stunning Pictures
Hi Bill Beautiful expose of your Patrimony Contemporaine. The platinum dial is exceptionally beautiful. I really enjoyed the pics of the 1400 movement. Maybe one day soon I will be the lucky owner of one of these watches in this line. ;-) Wear it in the b...
Thank you Constantine....
I hope you get the chance to wear an 81180 of your own someday. Preferably sooner rather than later! Bill
just beautiful!
I've recently become obsessed with this watch--and your observations only fueled the fire..... thx for sharing J
Go get one!
All the 81180 watches are great, but the EP truly stands out. Good luck with the hunt. Bill