Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...
Hotel Richemond, Geneva, Oct 13, 2001
LOT 673
Vacheron & Constantin, Genève, No. 497426, case No. 324938, circa 1950.Very rare and fine aluminum keyless dress watch.
CHF 3,500 - 4,500
USD 2,100 - 2,700
Sold: CHF 8,625
C. Three-body, "demi-bassine", polished and matte. D. Matte aluminum with applied polished aluminum Breguet numerals and subsidiary seconds. Polished aluminum "Breguet" hands. M. 16''', aluminum, 439/7 caliber, "fausses côtes" decoration, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement, cut bimetallic compensation balance, Breguet balance-spring with "swan-neck" micrometric regulator.Signed on the dial, case and movement.Diam. 44 mm.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AAA |
Excellent |
Case: 3 |
Good |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 3 - 01 |
Notes
A limited series of aluminum dress watches was produced by Vacheron & Constantin in anticipation of a possible shortage of strategic material during World War II. Aluminum was chosen as an alternative to other metals such as stainless steel, brass, copper, nickel, or precious metals.These watches were produced in very limited numbers. This series was ordered by the Aluminum Company of Canada, and was presented to their employees on various occasions, often as gifts for the 25th anniversary of employment.