Important Modern and Vintage Timepieces

New York, Dec 13, 2012

LOT 145

LAKE GENEVA VACHERON CONSTANTIN YELLOW GOLD AND ENAMEL Vacheron & Constantin, Genève, No. 480956, case No. 296113. Enamel by Helen May Mercier. Made circa 1945. Very fine and unique, 18K yellow gold and painted on enamel keyless dress watch.

USD 20,000 - 30,000

EUR 16,000 - 23,000

Sold: USD 110,500

C. Three-body, polished, the back with fi nely painted on enamel scene of Lake Geneva. D. Silvered, brushed, applied yellow gold dart and Arabic indexes, outer minute track, subsidiary seconds. Gold bâton hands. M. Cal. 17??? 439, rhodium plated, fausses-côtes decoration, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement, cut beryllium balance with timing screws, blued steel Breguet balance-spring, swan-neck micrometer regulator. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 46 mm. Property of the Family of the Original Owner


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 1

As new
Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Notes

The present lot is a phenomenal example of a Vacheron & Constantin dress watch with a polychrome painted on enamel scene by Helen May Mercier depicting Lake Geneva. Mercier studied under Charles Poluzzi and examples of her work rarely appear at auction. As part of the Poluzzi legacy, collectors have gravitated towards her work. The unique watch is being sold by the family of the original owner and has been kept in immaculate condition since its production over 60 years ago. S