Vacheron Constantin

• circular nickel lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, mono-metallic compensation balance, 17 jewels, precision regulator, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions • gilt engine-turned dial, applied baton indexes • 18k gold circular case with enlarged engine-turned bezel, engraved inscription to the snap back • with an 18k gold integrated bracelet • case, dial, bracelet and movement signed

Please note that this watch was not flown in outer space. The movement is running, however it may require service soon. The dial is very clean and shows no signs of wear or aging. The case back shows some scuffs and signs of light wear, however the engraving is still quite clear and not rubbed. The engraving reads 'To Walt, Thanks for the Memory, Bob Hope.' Bob Hope's name is written as a signature. The bracelet is in very nice condition with no signs of wear.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Please note this watch was not flown in outer space.

Accompanied by original Vacheron Constantin Guarantee & Instructions.

Together with flown Apollo 7 beta patch featuring hand-written inscription from Walter Cunningham reading, 'Carried with me on the flight of Apollo 7 - Walt Cunningham.'

The inscription to the outside of the case back reads 'To Walt, Thanks for the Memory, Bob Hope.'

The crew of Apollo 7 appeared on a Bob Hope television special in November 1968, only ten days after they splashed down. A few months later, in the spring of 1969, the three astronauts did a second show with Hope, this time on stage in the Oakland Colliseum.

Before this performance, Hope presented Cunningham this watch as a token of thanks for his hard work in the Apollo program, not to mention the successful television show from the previous fall.  

The inscription refers to the song, 'Thanks for the Memory,' first performed by Bob Hope in the W. C. Fields comedy film 'The Big Broadcast of 1938.' It would become Hope's signature song and perhaps no other song would be so closely associated with a particular performer as this one.