Exclusive Timepieces 20 –⁠ 21 April 2024 | Monaco

Auction Details

Auction sessions:

  • Session I – Saturday, 20 April, 2:30 PM – Lots 1 to 101
  • Session II – Sunday, 21 April, 10:30 AM – Lots 102 to 178
  • Session III – Sunday, 21 April, 2:30 PM – Lots 179 to 278

115 Vacheron Constantin Well Prerserved and Iconic, Cioccolatone, Wristwatch in Pink Gold, With Silvered Sweeps Centre Seconds Dial, Reference 4737

Estimate: € 10,000 –⁠ 20,000

Sold € 16,900

Model: Cioccolatone
Reference: 4737
Case Material: Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1950's
Movement: Manual
Caliber: P454/5B
Case N°: 333180
Movement N°: 509696
Dimensions: 35 x 43 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

Affectionately nicknamed “Cioccolatone” for its striking resemblance to a square of chocolate, the Vacheron Constantin Reference 4737 embodies the artistic flamboyance of the mid-20th century. This iconic timepiece, unveiled in the 1950s, seamlessly encapsulates the spirit of the era, mirroring the grand curves of contemporary American design that defined the period. The design language of Vacheron Constantin during this epoch was nothing short of an artistic flamboyance. The Reference 4737, with its clean lines, biomorphic shapes, and distinctive square profile, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional design. Rounded stepped lugs, a subtly curved case, and bezel contribute to the watch’s avant-garde charm, exemplifying the artistic creativity that Vacheron Constantin is renowned for. The manual 4737 in pink gold here offered remains a well-preserved exemplar. Vacheron Constantin’s production of the 4737 included variations with both automatic and manual movements, featuring subsidiary seconds, center seconds, date apertures, and even rare triple calendar examples with a moon phase. This particular configuration, boasting center seconds and avoiding a date display, caters to the tastes of traditionalists and nonconformists alike with the Maltese Cross unusually located at 6 o’clock instead of the classic position at 12. Its elegant simplicity and the purity of design elevate it as a symbol of mid-20th century sophistication. The watch is not just a timepiece, it is a window into a bygone era, capturing the avant-garde, industrial design that echoed the artistic zeitgeist of the time. As anyone explores this exquisite timepiece is not merely acquiring a watch but a piece of history, a tangible embodiment of Vacheron Constantin’s dedication to aesthetic innovation while upholding the highest standards of precision and craftsmanship.