Vacheron Constantin

When I decided to buy a tourbillon in 2007, and to reduce my VC collection to fund it, I took myself out of the market for new watches (with the exception of some purchases where I knew in advance that I would be a seller after a short period). But Vacheron Constantin didn't make it easy by introducing many compelling watches during that span! Now that I have my tourbillon, and seeing how I've got some catching up to do, here is a survey of my favorite VC's from the past three years, including my shortlist for future acquisitions.

SIHH in 2007 happened after I had committed to the buying the tourbillon, so I am including watches introduced that April, which showed up in dealer showcases that autumn. The introduction of the Patrimony Traditionnelle collection happened that year, and it has proven to be a very popular line for VC. The Caliber 2755 has one of the most satisfying minute repeaters that I have ever heard in a wristwatch, being loud, resonant, and in tune. That it has a tourbillon and perpetual calendar makes it even more special. It is a signature piece for the brand and the anchor of the Patrimony Traditionnelle collection, here pictured in the platinum version recently introduced:

 

 

 

After retiring the old skeleton perpetual, Ref 43032, which I had the pleasure to own, VC relaunched the complication in the Patrimony Traditionnelle line, and it is more beautiful than ever. The artisan who does the engraving on Vacheron Constantin’s skeleton watches has taken the art to an even higher leve (Photo courtesy of Alex Ghotbi)l:

 

 

Then there is the affordable model that I adore, the Self-Winding Patrimony Traditionnelle, with subseconds at 9 o’clock and date at 3 o’clock. I wrote an in-depth review of the watch and I like it as much today as I did then. This watch is on my shortlist to acquire now that I am reentering the market for VC watches, though choosing between the white gold, yellow gold (Am I the only person left in this world who likes yellow gold?), and rose gold/black dial Boutique Edition will be a challenge.

 

 

Later in 2007, Vacheron Constantin celebtated the 100^th anniversary of the Chronometer Royal by introducing the Chronometer Royal 1907.  VC’s in-house automatic caliber 2460 SC carries the COSC certificate and has earned the Geneva Hallmark. The dial displays some of the finest execution of enamel techniques that you will find. The first 100 watches of this model are distinguished by a red 12. Current production has a black 12:

 

 

 

 

 

2008 was the year that Vacheron Constantin launched the Quai de l’Ile. As a fan of what I call “new watchmaking,” I was pleased to see the brand embrace a more modern approach to design and use of materials. I wrote a review of the Day-Date Power Reserve, Ref 85050 last year, and the Self-Winding Date in titanium, Ref 86050 is on my shortlist:

 

 

Later in 2008 Vacheron Constantin introduced the breathtakingly beautiful American 1921, with the new in-house caliber 4400.  Based on a model from 1921 that was made in only 10 examples, this limited production watch stirs the passions and makes me smile. Needless to say it is on my shortlist:

 

 

 

The Malte line has evolved into exclusively tonneau shaped cases, and there are two models that I find really compelling: the Chronograph, Ref 48180, for which I wrote an in-depth review, and the Moon Phase and Power Reserve, Ref 83080. The expansive cases and multiple finishing on the dial are beautiful:

 

 

 

 

 

If Vacheron Constantin makes a variation with the caliber 2475 (Day-Date-Power Reserve) I don’t think I will be able to resist it!

 

While I like the watches that were introduced this past year, most of them were variations on existing themes and won’t displace those three watches (QDI, Patrimony, 1921) that are already on my short list.

 

If you were WHL, which of those three would you start with to get back into the VC game?

 

Bill

 

 

The 1921 for sure.  That one is on my short list, too. 

Thanks for the trip down recent memory lane by highlighting some of these beauties.  The Malte Chronograph, Ref 48180, intrigues me, so I will go back and read your review.  That is a beautiful one and in a non-round case, which I like very much. 

I can't wait to see which you start with.  Bill is back!

respo

to this post, and I don't blame you all one bit!!

In many respects I see the QDI and 1921 as constituting a complete VC collection writ small. Between the two one would have both a manual and automatic winding movement. Between them both one gets a calssic beauty and a cutting edge design.

I can't make a bad choice with whichever of the three I choose!

 

Bill

Hi Bill,

I think I'm a little too voyeuristic when reading your posts and imagining what it most be like to be WHL! 

I'd say take the 1921.  It is unique in design within the VC family and I don't think it will come out with different variations in the future.

The Patrimony might and the QDI definitely will come out with different variations for you to consider as options when the time comes to add to your collections again.

When do you expect to pull the trigger and make this next acquisition?

Best Regards, Dan

though when remain to be seen. You can be sure that I'll share the decision with the community when I make it!

 

Bill

...the patrimony traditionelle self winding in yellow gold. I am a sucker for that dial, and that movement, and that case!

But all on your list are winners.

Have fun!

Jed

I love 'em all, but am definitely inclining to one.....but which one is to remain my secret for the time being!

 

Bill

that skeleton perpetual. I don't know when or where I'd wear it, except during gazing-sessions... but it is spectacular. the 1921 continues to beguile... the QDL unfortunately is less interesting to me than even a few months ago... but still brave.

The repeater is that good!! But alas, I am in no position to make one mine.....The skeleton perpetual is fantastic, but I am in no position to make one mine... The Dragon watch is fantastic, but I (Refrain)...

 

 

I would get a very special piece, I would ask something which will be a kind of Homage for your Moderator's Great job.

A 1921 in platinum, or a Chronometre Royal in platinum, with the Red 12...

I'm thinking hard about these 2 pieces...

Why, but why did you ask?



Best,

Nicolas

please make a post such as mine on the forum and invite my input!  ;-)

I have a bias for the colored metals whereas you prefer the white metals. But if I like the idea of a special "Moderator's Edition" Vacheron Constantin.

 

Bill

 

I would like a lot to organize such a new VC addition...

Will keep you updated, of  course.

Best,

Nicolas

This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-05-03 10:59:13

e

nt

For me, the 1921 is the most beautiful and valuable VC watch. It was on my shortlist for some time. That was until last week.
As I find myself more the casual type, I bought - after many deliberations and a lot of comparing - a white gold watch with a slate dial instead (the Patek 6000G). This watch better suits my personality.
But, apart from the specific person wearing it, the 1921 is the most beautiful I have ever seen. And it will probably never bore. I suspect that when you feel stressed, one glance at the dial and you feel in harmony with yourself and the world again. A great watch: it not only gives you the time, it also makes you smile. I hope VC will produce it for a long time coming. Next time I see one, I will probably buy it anyway

when I was first learning about watches the Patek Philippe Ref 5000 was one that I couldn't stop looking at, and the white gold version is fantastic, and better than the YG due to the crisper applied numbers on the dial. The dial on the 6000 is too busy to suit my taste with the outer date ring, but I do like the larger case size.

The one thing that seems sure is that we'll both get a 1921 before were done with watches!

 

Bill

the Patrimony in wg......

very elegant, classic with a modern flair.....

cheers

about your fondness for the Quai de l'Ile! I love the unpredictability that comes with collecting...

 

 Bill

does not exclude the other.....

as much as I like the QdI, I prefer the Patrimony....
more VC dna....



cheers

All are great choices and represent something different. 

1.  The Q'dI is a break from tradition, has a modern design, and does not look like anything else currently on the market. 

2. The 1921, is a real stunner in person!  The case proportions are perfect, the dial is beautiful, and I love the placement of the small seconds subdial.  Its a great modern interpretation of the originals.  To me its the most regal looking of the bunch, less plain looking than the Patrimony Traditionelle, and more elegant than the Q'dI. 

3.  The Patrimony Traditionelle is just a classic design.  Its clean, its handsome, I like the grey track along the outer edge of the dial, and its a good choice if you are looking for a more traditional/less bold design.  Not to mention since you like yellow gold, the Patrimony Traditionelle might be a good way to add a yellow gold watch to your collection.

 

For me the downsides of each watch...

1.  Q'dI, its reminds me a bit of a Accutron Spaceview.  I know its a far nicer, more intricate design, more unusual materials and shows a modern direction for VC, still I have not been able to warm up to it.

2.  The 1921, is a bit pricey for a watch that does not give you any additional functions over the Patrimony Traditionelle.  (Although, it really may be the best looking of the bunch IMHO).

3.  The Patrimony, is great classic design but there isn't much to make it stand out from other watches.   

If I were in WHL's shoes I'd be leaning toward the 1921 and the Patrimony.

Best regards,

Dino

 

 

and I certainly am thinking along those lines, though also in my thoughts are all the watches that I've had experience with in the past.  Do I go with things that I like or do I try something new?

 

Bill

Are you the type who prefers a safe choice by going with what you know you already like?  Are you concerned that after the newness wears off you will quickly fall out of love with a type of watch you've never previously owned?  Maybe its a matter of deciding if any of these watches would fill a particular gap in your collection.

Best regards,

Dino

Or to be precise on what you wear most of the time?

The patrmony is a classic,the american 1921 is a wonder, and the QDI a freaky marvel.

The 1921 is superb but for some person not so easy to wear every day because of rose gold, if you can, go for it !

The patrimony is a godd choice with a wonderful dial.

But I would definitely go for a QDI, it is just stronger !
Easy to wear in titanium or full palladium.
I am crazy about this watch, you did pretty good photos of it.
It is also classy at the same time especially in palladium.

So QDI Palladium would be my choice.

best regards

Francois

You are right about the versatility of the QDi vervus the other two watches, especially in palladium, and that is a point in favor of it. I expect that I would play around with straps, both VC and others, and make the watch suit my whim for fashion, like Panerai collectors do.

 

Bill

The 2755 is just amazing, but as someone who may never be able to afford one, I love the American 1921. 

I am not always a fan of square/cushion/TV shaped cases (some, but not all), and as someone who almost never likes Pink/Rose Gold, I have an almost absurd level of 'want' for the American 1921.  It is just fantastic.  The right case shape, the right pink/rose gold tone, the right dial - just the right combination of elements.  I also prefer automatic watches in general, so for me it really is an anomaly of interest, but sometimes those end up being the things you enjoy most in the long run.

enjoy whatever you decide on.