Quattro's post meticulously compares two vintage 'hourglass' watches, the Patek Philippe Ref. 1593 and Vacheron Constantin Ref. 4951, focusing on their distinctive faceted crystals. This detailed side-by-side analysis, inspired by a fellow collector's post, brings to light the unique design elements of these mid-1940s references and their intriguing visual distortions. The author's dedication to showcasing multiple variants provides a comprehensive visual guide for enthusiasts of vintage horology.
I've had the desire for a while to put together the two rectangular faceted crystal references by Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. Reading the
post by watch-guy this morning gave me the final impulse.
Patek Philippe ref. 1593 & Vacheron Constantin ref. 4951 both come from the mid-1940s and were nicknamed "the hourglass" because of the shape of their case. But what interests me here is that they both have a faceted crystal, which follows, but doesn’t stick to the curvature of the case and which distorts the dial of the watch when viewed under different angles, creating an intriguing variation in shape and proportions.
Patek's ref. 1593 was designed by master casemaker Markowski. As for Vacheron's ref. 4951, I didn't find any specific information.
Here are just a few variants. Enjoy!
A/ Vacheron Constantin ref. 4951 with cal. 435/3C
1
/ Pink gold & dual-tone dial
credit: sabiwatches
2/ Pink gold with silver dial
2/ Yellow gold (?) with Roman XII
credit: lorologiese
B/ Patek Philippe ref. 1593 with cal. 9-90
1/ Yellow gold
credit: Luxo time Firenze
credit:
watches24.com 2/ Platinum with bracelet retailed by Serpico Y Laino, Caracas
credit: monaco legend auctions
Advertisement for the 1593 used on the cover of the book by John Reardon 
credit: ad patina and quill & pad
