Vacheron Constantin

• cal. 1126AT automatic nickel lever movement, 36 jewels, mono-metallic balance • enamel double 'Grand Feu' dial depicting Zheng He's journey across the Pacific and Indian ocean • 18k yellow gold circular case, 18k yellow gold full case back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Vacheron Constantin buckle

Automatic movement running while cataloguing, the movement has not been tested for accuracy of time keeping and a service might be required at the buyer's expense. The enamel dial is intact and looks nice and clean. Case and buckle with minor scuffs from light wear only. Overall appears in excellent condition. Collectible! **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species, please refer to important notices for further information**.
"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."

With a Vacheron Constantin certificate, loupe and a presentation box with outer packaging. 

Launched as a tribute to great explorers in history, the Métiers d’Art collection enlivens the heroic tales of the seafarers who ventured out, traversing through savage waves, to exotic lands afar. This watch is specifically dedicated to Zheng He (1371-1433), the legendary Chinese navigator who led fleets of vessels across the Indian Sea to India, Arabic regions and even Africa in the 15^thcentury. Offered in a limited series of 60 pieces, the watch is equipped with wandering hours in which the hour digits perform a somewhat poetic epicyclic dance around the lower part of the case.  The elaborated world map on the dial was adorned using Grand Feu enameling, one of the most sophisticated enameling techniques. The fact that the enamel dial is crafted in two layers, with one overhanging the other, presents an extraordinary challenge, putting the skills and expertise of the enameller to the test.