43 Vacheron Constantin Very Elegant and Attractive, Triple Calendar Moon Phase, Wristwatch in Steel, Claw Lugs, With Extract from the Archives, Reference 4240

Estimate: €20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Model: Triple Calendar
Reference: 4240
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1945
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 12“1/2 455
Case N°: 273 855
Movement N°: 429789
Dimensions: 35 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Extract from the Archives
Literature: Since 2013, part of the collection of Mr. Benjamin Clymer, gentleman watch collector and founder, HODINKEE

Vacheron Constantin has long been associated with the production of complicated timepieces. While the manufacturer made unique calendar wristwatches in the past for their most distinguished clients, the first serially produced calendar wristwatch was unveiled in 1942 with the reference 4240, such as the present lot. First executions of reference 4240 were made in yellow gold, pink gold and steel and are rarely seen for sale or at auction. Exceptionally rare and quintessentially Vacheron Constantin, the reference 4240 employs a complete calendar—meaning it displays the day, date and month—inspired by the manufacture’s calendar pocket watches of the early 20th century. This piece, produced in 1945, is one of the very few 4240 ever made in steel and is part of the production of fewer than 50 pieces, as registered in the Vacheron Constantin archives. The streamlined 35 mm case is both elegant and robust thanks to sweeping yet strong claw lugs and three gadroons which comprise the band of the mid-case. In absolutely untouched and all original condition, the three-tone fine granulated satin surface dial has developed a wonderful patina. Such an exceptional example of such a rare watch is sure to inspire collectors, just as this very watch inspired Vacheron Constantin to create and launch the “Historiques Triple Calendrier 1942” in 2017. The present lot, a bit of a celebrity, was prominently featured in the brand’s marketing material at the launch of the Historiques Triple Calendrier 1942, of which we have an example in this auction: please see lot 42. Moreover, since 2013 this incredible watch has been part of the collection of Mr. Benjamin Clymer, gentlemen watch collectors and founder, HODINKEE.