Demi Chronometer
Vacheron Constantin demi chronometer
This is a beautiful example of a classic gold pocket watch, a style that exudes craftsmanship and elegance from the late 19th or early 20th century. While precise identification is difficult without the hallmarks on the inside, several interesting details are immediately apparent:
Case (Savonnette): This is a so-called “hunter case” or savonnette. This means the watch has a protective metal lid that folds over the dial. You usually open it by pressing a button in the crown.
Dial & Layout: The watch has a white enamel dial with classic Roman numerals. The sub-dial at the bottom (at the 6 o’clock position) is the off-center seconds hand.
Material: The deep, warm sheen most likely indicates a 18-karat yellow gold case. In such luxury pocket watches, the inner lid (the cuvette) is sometimes made of base metal, but the exterior is usually solid gold.
The robust crown (for winding) and the bezel (the pendant) are also made of gold and are in excellent condition, with no significant wear to the serrations.
The case is decorated with a very fine, repeating geometric pattern. This technique, called guilloché, was applied with a precision lathe and was a sign of high quality. It makes the watch less susceptible to visible fingerprints and gives it a beautiful sparkle in the light.
An enamel dial is one of the most prized features of a classic pocket watch. It is not simply a layer of paint, but a glassy substance fused to a metal plate under extremely high temperatures. Here are a few reasons why this type of dial is so special:
- Durability and colorfastness,
Unlike silver-plated or printed dials, which can oxidize, discolor, or stain (patina) over time, enamel remains white almost forever. The bright, deep shine you see on your watch is likely exactly the same as the day it left the workshop.
- The manufacturing process (Grand Feu),
Producing such a dial is a risky and artisanal process:
Powdering: Glass powder is evenly sprinkled over a copper or gold plate.
Firing: The plate is placed in a kiln at temperatures between 800°C and 1200°C.
Risk: A large percentage of dials crack during cooling. Only perfect specimens are used.
Printing: The Roman numerals and text (such as the brand name) are often also baked into the enamel, making them indelible.
- Visual features,
Depth: Enamel has a milky depth that you don’t get with modern lacquer.
Subdials: Your watch features a recessed section for the seconds hand (the recessed subdial). This was often made separately and later integrated into the main dial, adding to the design’s complexity.
In short, this beautiful pocket watch with a unique enamel dial is ready for you. Hold it and experience the art of enamel.
Year
1910€ 2.950
Contact us
Got your attention?
We’re here to help.
We’re here to help.
Brand
Vacheron Constantin
Dial color
Silver, Enemal
Model
Pocket Watch
Movement
Hand-wound
Year of production (circa)
1910
Diameter
410
Material
18k Yellow gold
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Crystal
Acrylic
Vacheron Constantin is the oldest Swiss watchmaker, having been in continuous existence since 1755. The three iconic Swiss houses of Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin are lovingly referred to as the Holy trinity by watch lovers around the world.
Vacheron Constantin is an old school Swiss watchmaker in the truest sense. They are known for complicated in-house calibers, advanced decorating techniques and extreme levels of fine finishing. They have numerous inventions and patents to their name, among which the first non-magnetic movement in 1885 and the world’s thinnest movement in 1955. In 2015, VC created the most complicated movement ever made, featuring a mind-blowing 57 complications.
Vacheron Constantin is known for its decorating prowess, which you can clearly see by their current Metiers d’art collection. These works of art feature extremely fine engraving and enamel work. All, of course, done by hand by highly trained artists.
But VC’s catalogue is not limited to complicated dress watches. Back in 1977, Vacheron Constantin joined the luxury steel sports watch game. After Audemars Piguet had launched its Royal Oak in 1972 and Patek followed with the Nautilus in 1976, VC introduced the Ref. 222 a year later. The distinctive watch with integrated bracelet was named in celebration of the house’s 222nd anniversary.
The Ref. 222 would remain in production until 1985 and provided some much needed youthful freshness to Vacheron’s offerings. Eleven years after its discontinuation, the Ref. 222 would be succeeded by the Overseas, a new sports watch from the fabled brand. A design riddled with hints to the house’s logo: the Maltese cross.
Vacheron is a real connoisseur’s house. It probably wasn’t the first brand on your list when you got into watches. But once it appears on your radar, it will enchant you with truly magnificent watchmaking in many different forms.
At AWCo we put the safety of our shipments upfront at all times. Therefore, we ship all our packages insured.
We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.
Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.
Dear Watch enthusiast,
Watches can only be order online within the EU.
Please contact us if you live outside the EU.