About Vacheron Constantin
How did Vacheron Constantin begin?
Vacheron Constantin was founded in Geneva in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron and is one of the oldest watchmaking houses still at work. In 1819 François Constantin joined as a partner, and the house has carried both names ever since.
The Maltese cross has served as its emblem since the late nineteenth century. The house made its name with finely finished movements and complications, and through the twentieth century it remained largely devoted to classical watches in precious metal.
In 1977 came the 222, a sports watch with an integrated bracelet, named after the 222nd anniversary of the house. The Overseas followed in 1996 and was thoroughly redesigned in 2016. Since 1996 Vacheron Constantin has belonged to the Richemont group.
What do we check on a Vacheron Constantin?
With Vacheron Constantin, much comes down to finishing, and that is where our inspection begins. We compare the reference, case number and movement number with the certificate and check that dial, hands and calibre belong to the reference.
Where a movement bears the Hallmark of Geneva, the Poinçon de Genève, we check that the hallmark is present where it should be; this is the case on the Overseas calibres 5100 and 5200.
Through the display back we assess the bridges and rotor: Côtes de Genève, bevelled edges and polished screw heads quickly reveal any intervention. On an Overseas we test the interchange system: bracelet and straps must click off and on without tools.
We also look for polishing marks on case and bezel, at the clasp and at the movement, including start, stop and reset on a chronograph. Whatever we find is stated in the description.
Which Vacheron Constantin models do we offer and look for?
Demand centres on the third-generation Overseas: the 4500V/110A with date, the 5500V/110A chronograph and the 7900V/110A with a second time zone.
Anyone looking for an earlier Overseas arrives at the 47040/B01A, the predecessor of the 4500V.
From the classical lines we look for the steel Fiftysix, and collectors ask for the yellow-gold Historiques 222, the reissue of the 1977 watch.
We also offer Patrimony and Traditionnelle models when we find them. If your reference is not online, we can search for it.
How do you buy, sell or trade in a Vacheron Constantin with us?
You buy a Vacheron Constantin from us through a request without obligation; we confirm availability personally, and payment by bank transfer only follows once you agree. Delivery is insured or by appointment.
You can sell outright, on consignment or as a trade-in against another watch from our collection. Please send clear photographs of the case, dial and caseback, and state which documents and, for an Overseas, which straps you have.
Every request is assessed by hand, and a proposal only follows afterwards. The Aequator Collection is an independent dealer and not an authorised Vacheron Constantin retailer.