Vacheron Constantin

• cal. P1008/BS manual winding nickel lever movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 19 jewels • silvered dial with applied gold hexagonal and baton indexes, minute and 1/2 second divisions, alpha hands • 18k yellow gold brushed and polished case, snap-on back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Vacheron Constantin guilloché integrated bracelet

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be required. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing. Dial and hands in very good condition with very light oxidation mark. Case and bracelet with light scuffs and minor dents and scratches due to age. Overall in good condition. Very complete and nice example.
"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."

Among the production of Vacheron Constantin, the Chronometre Royal holds a very special place. It is synonymous with the finest pieces created by the celebrated manufacture.

The first Chronometre Royal was introduced in 1907 when Vacheron Constantin decided not only to produce chronometers for competition but also for actual use. Indeed, for decades, manufactures had created chronometers to compete against one another at observatory contests. Vacheron Constantin wanted to offer its clients the same quality for everyday wear. 

In 1953, Vacheron Constantin reintroduced the Chronometre Royal but as a wristwatch. The watches were fitted with cal. 1007BS for subsidiary seconds and cal. 1008BS for centre seconds, as demonstrated by the present lot. The pieces produced during that period are regarded by specialists as among the finest watches in terms of quality, aesthetic appeal of the movement and design. In 1962, the calibres were replaced by the automatic cal. 1072. Apart from a small number of models produced in the 1990’s, the Chronometre Royal made its resurgence in 2007 when production was restarted for its hundredth birthday.

In addition, this beautiful examples of a Chronometre Royal comes incredibly complete.

The watch was directly consigned by its original and only owner, who cherished and carefully kept it for 55 years. He received it from his father who wanted to give his son “the best watch in the world”.

Furthermore, extensive research proves that the present watch is fitted with a very rare integrated bracelet.

The present lot has to be considered as one of the finest and most complete example of Chronometre Royal appearing at auction in the last decade.