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Lot #3431

Vacheron Constantin Manual Wind Hinged Lugs Square Les Collectionneurs 18k YG

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Introduction

Vacheron Constantin has evolved over the years from their position in the shadows of their fellow "Holy Trinity" members, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, to a watchmaker that is revered throughout the entire watchmaking industry. Crucial to this development was their attractive dress watches like the ref. 4790 that we have here with its stunning silver dial and beautiful 27mm 18kt yellow gold construction. While most high-end brands typically focus on creating round dress watches, there has always been room for watchmakers to experiment with timepieces that break from that convention in some way, shape or form, and shape is how the example that we have here breaks from that convention. Square in shape, this case boasts sharp corners and a pronounced bezel with a polished inner bezel that meets a brushed external portion. Before running onto the hinged lugs that make this wonderful watch all the more unique and comfortable on the wrist. Set apart from the typical circular dress watches of its era in aesthetics, this example indeed matches its peers in specs with its and manual-wind movement, which was certainly to be expected at the time for a dress watch. Refurbished by Vacheron Constantin as part of their Les Collectionneurs program whereby rare vintage watches are chosen by the brand to be restored, this timepiece has been given a new lease of life by Vacheron Constantin themselves.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Les Collectionneurs Box and Guarantee Certificate

Est. value range

$5,000 – $8,000

The Details

Brand

Vacheron Constantin

Dimensions

27mm Across

Model

Hinged Lugs Square Les Collectionneurs

Movement

Manual-wind cal. 1001

Reference

4790

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

Circa 1960s

Condition

Very Good

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch, Les Collectionneurs Box and Guarantee Certificate

Dial Color

Silver

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Professionally refurbished by the brand, this example's silver dial retains its original branding at 12 o'clock alongside its applied hour markers and hands for an understated look.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Boasting an 18kt yellow gold case with hinged lugs that bend to follow the contours of the wrist they are wrapped around, this ref. 4790 is wonderfully comfortable on the wrist.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in very good overall condition. Watch was reconditioned by Vacheron Constantin and currently shows only minor surface wear visible. Original dial was cleaned by the manufacture, and shows some loss of definition on the indelible dial. There are some minor spots visible on the dial surface. Watch is accompanied by a VC signed 18k YG buckle and guarantee card and box.

Our Perspective

Restored by Vacheron and given the lease of life that it deserves, this incredibly unique ref. 4790 showcases that while Vacheron are typically reserved, they have a penchant for creating some unique and wonderful watches now and again when they feel like it.

Eric Ku

Co-founder