Vacheron Constantin Chronograph 18K YG (Ref. 4072) 'Cal. 492', 1950s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Few watch brands are as respected or revered within the watch world as the 3rd oldest watchmaker, Vacheron Constantin, whose doors opened in 1755. Known most notably for their quality of craftsmanship and design whether it is an ultra-complicated moon phase calendar or a simple dress model. There is a reason Vacheron Constantin belongs to the “Holy Trinity” of watchmaking, and it's the brand's precise execution that transcends generations and a devotion to innovation that has solidified its regaled position within horology. Among the many important chronographs created by Vacheron Constantin throughout the 20th century, the ref. 4072 is regarded as one of the most sought-after, researched, and coveted references created. Mostly due to its contemporary design language, especially for its era of production, along with its classic proportions and unique variations. Introduced in 1938 and produced until the early 1970s, the ref. 4072 may have been in production for about three decades, though vary sparingly, as research suggests only 1178 examples were made in total, with three different movements used throughout its lifespan. The example presented here employs the cal. 492 movement, based on the Valjoux caliber 22, though finished to the degree of excellence expected from Vacheron Constantin in this era. It is understood that there were only 214 examples of the ref. 4072 made featuring the cal. 492, making this example not only a marquee of horological beauty, but incredibly rare as well. SPECS Stock # VCYG4072 Brand Vacheron Constantin Style Chronograph Model 4072 Serial 466XXX Size Men's Material 18K Yellow Gold Dial Champagne Millimeters 34 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap W/ 18K YG Tang Buckle CASE & BRACELET The 18K yellow gold case remains in exceptional condition, retaining full and symmetrical lugs that exhibit minimal signs of being previously polished with only gentle signs of use present. The case retains its original unsigned crown and square pushers. The case back is also very presentable with only very light wear or markings present. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap with an era-correct 18K yellow gold tang buckle. DIAL & HANDS The original two-register champagne dial featuring a telemeter and tachymeter outer timing scale and Arabic numbers at 12 and 6 o'clock is in beautifully preserved condition with only gentle elements of age present that add to the overall vintage aesthetic and charm of the timepiece. Showing only nominal marks throughout, expected for the age of the watch, with no notable spots of damage. The sub-registers show very mild aging and have aged slightly darker than the rest of the dial which is common for unrestored dials of this era. The yellow gold hour and minute hands are in superb condition, as are the accompanying blued sub-register and chronograph hands which add a welcomed cool contrast to the composition of the dial. ACCESSORIES