Vacheron Constantin 4870
Elegantly proportioned and gracefully understated, the Vacheron Constantin 4870 is a classic dress watch from the 1950s that features a self-winding movement and a waterproof case.
This is the Vacheron Constantin reference 4870. Founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron at a tender young age of 24, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest continually operating watch manufacturer. A rich history of producing quality of the highest standards, the brand has undoubtedly been one of the most resilient as well, surviving both world wars and many other historical events along the way. The brand 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.
Originally renowned for producing pocket watches with the highest level of engineering and artistry, the brand opened its first boutique in Geneva during the early 20th century and started producing wristwatches during the 1940s. Often characterized by the stylistic cases and guilloche dials, the brand’s identity was often tied to its elegance and creativity. Among the time-only watches produced by the brand in the 1950s, the reference 4870 is undoubtedly one that stands out. At its time of introduction, most of the existing dress watches were small, manual-winding and not water resistant. However, the 4870 defied all the stereotypes. Featuring a 36mm case size that was large for its era, the reference was also powered by an automatic movement housed in a waterproof case with a screw down caseback.
Timelessly proportioned, the 4870 is a dress watch that transcends across eras with its universal case size. In many ways, the reference highlights the brand’s understated elegance that remains present even in its modern offerings.
This Vacheron Constantin 4870 is in very good vintage condition. The crystal and dial remain clean with no signs of age. The caseback has some signs of wear in the form of light hairlines. The hour hand has some scratches. The lugs remain thick and even. The watch retains its original AW 18k gold buckle without any box or papers. The watch has just been serviced locally and is in full working order.
Brand Vacheron Constantin
Reference 4870
Case 36mm
Movement Automatic
Case material Yellow Gold
Bracelet material Leather
Year circa 1950s
Condition Good
Accessories None. Watch Only.
Limited No