The Vacheron Constantin Ref. 47101 was introduced in 1989, as part of the brand’s Historiques collection - paying tribute to the Genevan watchmaker’s archives. This example features an engine-turned salmon dial and is part of a small handful cased in platinum. Considered by many to be one of the most beautifully refined chronographs ever made, it would make an excellent addition to any collection.

 boasts a lengthy and uninterrupted history of manufacture, dating back to 1755. The firm’s founder, Jean-Marc Vacheron, was one of many cabinotier-watchmakers who specialised in the production of complex components. Upon partnering with François Constantin, Vacheron (the brand) became widely-known for upholding the finest horological traditions - enamelling, piercing, engraving, and engine-turning.
 
The majority of reference 47101 and 47111s were cased in yellow gold, with very few examples thought to have been made in platinum. The origins of the watch can be traced back to Vacheron’s iconic reference 4178, from the 1940s - with its tachymeter scale and placement of the subsidiary dials - considered by many to be one of the most beautifully refined chronographs ever made.
 
Overall, the dial layout is cleanly designed, with the chronograph highly legible in a variety of lighting conditions. Classically understated, the outer five-minute divisions and tachymeter scale are perfectly balanced. With its 36 mm case diameter, the size of the 47101 is classically inspired - featuring down-turned, angular lugs and a polished, chamfered bezel. The snap-on, display case-back, features the Maltese cross and manufacturer's hallmarks, along with its unique reference numbers.
 
The reference 47101 integrates Vacheron’s 21-jewel, manual-winding, 1140 calibre, based upon a thoroughly reworked ‘Nouvelle Lemania’ 2320 ébauche - much like the Patek Philippe Ref. 5070. The movement is beautifully finished, with exquisite chamfering on all angles, polishing, and decoration, in the form of Geneva striping. The movement uses a straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance adjusted to 5 positions, a self-compensating Breguet spring, and a swan-neck micrometre regulator.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques Chronograph will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques Chronograph is in very good overall condition. Light superficial marks are found on the case and lugs, consistent with minimal wear over time and only on the surface of the material. Notably on the left side of the mid-case. The salmon guilloché dial and hands have been well preserved without any signs of imperfections. Light tarnishing is found on the movement, and which keeps perfect time. The hallmarks between the lugs at six o'clock, on the caseback, and on the buckle are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.