View full screen - View 1 of Lot 229. Patrimony Skeleton, Reference 43030 | A yellow gold skeletonized wristwatch | Circa 1985.

Vacheron Constantin

Patrimony Skeleton, Reference 43030 | A yellow gold skeletonized wristwatch | Circa 1985

Lot closes

May 13, 12:27 PM GMT

Estimate

7,000 - 12,000 CHF

Current Bid

14,000 CHF

11 Bids

Reserve met

We may charge or debit your saved payment method subject to the terms set out in our Conditions of Business for Buyers.

Read more.

Lot Details

Description

Dial: skeletonized

Calibre: cal. 1120/1 automatic, 36 jewels

Movement number: 742'166

Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on sapphire crystal display case back

Case number: 581'990

Closure: 18k yellow gold Vacheron Constantin buckle

Size: 33.5 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Box: no

Papers: no

Accessories: none

 

Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.

Please refer to our Conditions of Business for Buyers for our Buyer’s Premium in Switzerland.

Skeletonisation has long formed part of Vacheron Constantin’s decorative tradition, requiring the careful reduction of a movement to its essential structure without compromising its integrity.


The present reference 43030, dating to circa 1985, is powered by the ultra-thin calibre 1120/1, one of the most respected automatic movements of its period. Here, it has been extensively openworked, with the bridges cut back to reveal the gear train and oscillating weight, while maintaining the balance and symmetry of the calibre.


With the dial effectively removed, time is indicated by hands alone, leaving the movement itself to define the watch. Housed in a restrained yellow gold case, the emphasis is placed on proportion, finishing and the discipline of openworking rather than on complication.