Vacheron Constantin Lemania Chronograph 47100

This is the Vacheron Constantin Lemania Chronograph reference 47100 in platinum. Founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron at a tender young age of 24, Vacheron Constantin holds the distinction of the longest running watch manufacturer in the world. With a rich history of producing quality of the highest standards, the brand is undoubtedly one of the most resilient having survived both world wars and many other historical events along the way. Vacheron is also the current purveyor of the world’s most complicated wristwatch with the recent release of the Les Cabinotiers Solaria boasting 41 complications to celebrate the brand’s 270th anniversary.

Introduced in 1991 as the skeletonized variant of the famous reference 47101, the 47100 was part of the brand’s renowned Historiques collection introduced in the late 20th century. Manufactured exclusively in yellow gold and platinum, the 47100 remained in the brand’s catalogue from 1991 till 1992 and in this short lifespan, it is said that fewer than 100 examples across both metals were produced.

Powered by the Vacheron Cal. 1140 based on the storied Lemania 2320 column-wheel chronograph movement, the movement remains one of the most important of its era and has powered several iconic references including the Breguet 3237 and the Patek Philippe 5070. Exquisitely finished with a swan-neck regulator and a self-compensating Breguet spring, the Lemania 2310 is often regarded as one of the best chronograph movements in the world even till today.

At the front of the case, the dial is fully opened and skeletonized but remains highly legible. Featuring two subdials displaying the 30-minute counter and chronograph counter, the openwork dial features hand-engraved bridges with a Maltese-cross mainspring barrel. Housed in a platinum case timelessly sized at 38mm, the 47100 is well-proportioned with a remarkable thinness for the complication.

Even with the emergence of the “neo-vintage” era, only a handful of the skeletonized chronographs have appeared for public sale. Among the most impressive chronographs to emerge from that era, the 47100 is a reminder of the brand’s watchmaking prowess and is a prominent reminder of why the brand remains among the most accomplished in the history of horology.

This Vacheron Constantin 47100 is in excellent pre-owned condition. The case has some light signs of wear in the form of hairlines but without any dings or dents. Both the serial and hallmark engravings on the caseback are deep and legible and it retains its original Vacheron strap and platinum buckle. The watch comes with its original box, hang tag and guarantee denoting its date of sale in 1994 and is in full working order.

Brand Vacheron Constantin

Reference 47100

Case 38mm

Movement Manual Wind

Case material Platinum

Bracelet material Leather

Year 1994

Condition Excellent

Accessories Original Box, Guarantee and Hangtag

Limited No