As the world's oldest watchmaker, Vacheron & Constantin sets the bar for what constitutes a world-class timepiece. Prized by kings and queens, heads of state, and prominent public figures, their timepieces rank among the most exclusive and expensive in the world.

Among Vacheron & Constantin’s sculptural case designs, the teardrop lug model holds a special place for its blend of refined architecture and graceful wearability.

While most examples of this period measure a much more restrained 30-33mm, in keeping with the conventions of the 1940's, the present watch is far rarer and more coveted oversize 36mm version . That difference, seemingly modest on paper, is striking in practice; it transforms the watch from a discreet companion into a statement of presence, while still retaining the elegance and slim profile that define Geneva’s exceptional mid-century dress creations.

The handsome mens watch featured in today's offering is one of the company's desirable tear drop lugs models, distinguished by its sculpted teardrop lugs and further refined by its uncommon two-tone steel and rose gold construction.

Elegant yet understated, it appeals to the man who is satisfied knowing that he was wearing one of finest watches in the world and does not need to parade it.

Its beauty makes it stand out. We have always felt this model is especially elegant.

Inside, the hand-finished Vacheron & Constantin manually wound movement, adjusted to temperature and fitted with 17 jewels, continues the maison’s tradition of precision and artistry. It is a caliber made not only to measure time but to exemplify the very highest standards of Genevan horology.

Its large, steel Vacheron & Constantin case presents in excellent condition with only very light wear to the back and only very slight signs of previous polishing. Unlike most tear drop lugs examples, the lugs on the one have never been previously reinforced - they remain all original.

Its silver dial was restored by one of the leading dial experts in North America. And its high-grade Vacheron & Constantin movement is very clean.

One of our Master Watchmakers, who used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealer, was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center to be an authorized Rolex watchmaker, and has done contracting work for the Richemont brands including Vacheron & Constantin, has fully serviced the watch which consists of fully disassembling the movement, carefully inspecting each part, installing a new mainspring, reassembling and lubricating the movement, and extensive timing testing and regulation (a $795 value).

It is running very strongly and keeping very accurate time.

For the finishing touch, we have equipped it with a brand new crocodile strap making it ready for immediate enjoyment.

Included with the purchase is a one-year international warranty on the movement and its function, a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.

Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an extremely experienced team of four Master Watchmakers all of whom each have over thirty-five years of experience and a large number of parts. As mentioned, one used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealership and was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center. He also did contract watchmaking work for the Richemont Group, owner of Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Piaget, Vacheron Constantin and others.

Manufacturer: Vacheron & Constantin
Country of origin: Switzerland
Serial no.: 480,454
Year built: c. 1943
Model: Ref. 4126
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Subsidiary Seconds
Designed for: Men
Case material: Stainless steel
Case condition: Its large, steel Vacheron & Constantin case presents in excellent condition with only very light wear to the back and only very slight signs of previous polishing.
Case markings (inside): ACIER INOX, VACHERON & CONSTANTIN, SWISS, 4126, 331926
Dimensions: 36mm wide (excluding crown), 42.5mm long lug tip-to-tip
Dial: Silver with applied steel baton indices, subsidiary seconds dial, signed Vacheron & Constantin, expertly restored
Hands: Original, steel batons
Movement type: Vacheron & Constantin, very high grade, adjusted to temperatures, manually wound, rhodium plated, “fausses cotes” decoration, 17 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance, Breguet balance-spring
Movement markings: Vacheron & Constantin, Swiss, Seventeen Jewels, Adjusted to Temperature, 480,454
Jewels: 17 rubies
Beat frequency: 18,000 BPH
Band: Crocodile, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn. We also stock a variety of other straps in various prints, skins, and colors. Please ask us if you're interested.
Width between lugs: 17mm
Crystal: Acrylic, excellent condition
Serviced: One of our Master Watchmakers, who used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealer, was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center to be an authorized Rolex watchmaker, and has done contracting work for the Richemont brands including Vacheron & Constantin, has fully serviced the watch which consists of fully disassembling the movement, carefully inspecting each part, installing a new mainspring, reassembling and lubricating the movement, and extensive timing testing and regulation (a $795 value).
Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system. It is running very strongly and keeping very accurate time.
Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an extremely experienced team of four Master Watchmakers all of whom each have over thirty-five years of experience and a large number of parts. As mentioned, one used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealership and was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center. He also did contract watchmaking work for the Richemont Group, owner of Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Piaget, Vacheron Constantin and others.
Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our watches. If you are in any way unsatisfied with the watch we will fully refund the purchase price anytime within 7 days after the watch has been received. Our goal is to exceed our client's expectations throughout the buying experience.

All watches are packaged carefully and mailed double boxed in specially constructed, reinforced shipping boxes designed for high value items. All watches are sent fully insured with signature required. Most of our domestic shipping is done through FedEx. At times we will also use USPS Express Mail, and we can accommodate most requests for your preferred carrier. International shipments are sent USPS International Express Mail or FedEx.

The purchase price will be the declared value of the merchandise on any required customs forms. The payment of all customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Also note that water resistance of vintage watches can no longer be guaranteed and is not covered under the watch's warranty. We do not recommend getting a vintage watch wet, even one that was originally designed to be waterproof.

To get an idea of how this watch will look on the wrist, please use the Watch Sizing Guide

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