Collection
In this insightful post, sham1 shares his recent acquisitions: a Vacheron Constantin American 1921 and a Kikuchi Nakagawa Murakumo. His reflections offer a unique perspective on the allure of dress watches from both established luxury brands and burgeoning independents, highlighting the distinct charm and appeal each brings to a collection. sham1's experience underscores the evolving landscape of watch collecting, where patience and a keen eye for craftsmanship are paramount.
The Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 is a distinctive reinterpretation of a cushion-shaped watch originally produced by the manufacture for the American market in the 1920s. This reference is characterized by its unique diagonal display, with the crown positioned at the 1 o'clock position and the dial rotated 45 degrees clockwise. This design was historically intended to allow drivers to read the time without removing their hands from the steering wheel, offering both a functional and aesthetically unconventional presentation within the Historiques collection.
This particular iteration of the American 1921 features a case crafted from precious metal, often rose gold, with a polished finish that highlights its cushion shape and stepped bezel. The watch is typically fitted with a manual-winding mechanical movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back, providing a power reserve suitable for daily wear. The crystal protecting the dial is also sapphire, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance.
The American 1921 appeals to collectors seeking pieces with historical provenance and an unconventional design. Its distinctive orientation and vintage inspiration make it a conversation piece and a unique offering within Vacheron Constantin's contemporary lineup. Various sizes have been produced, catering to different wrist preferences while maintaining the core design principles of the original 1921 model.
Sham - you're too kind to break my heart into exact two pieces ;-) both of them are stunning - I believe the case finish of KN would be extremely high. Best, mahesh.,
but you know how careful I am with my watches so it suits me well. Best of all, both watches have exceeded my expectations. It is always a risk to buy a watch based on photos but the Murakumo would easily rank as one of my top 5 purchases of all time even with the concealed movement. Afterall, it is the dial that we see all the time so for me that is what counts the most.
Being on a roll has happened too many times with me fortunately or unfortunately but I believe my watch buying days are coming to a close, not because the passion has died but mainly due to my having almost all that I desire when it comes to watches. I don't think I shall be ordering any more new pieces as I have a possible seven more incoming watches over the nbext couple of years. I would like to say 'enough' so if I do post any more than seven new watches, please give me a stern warning!!
Also nice to see you again in UK
Congrats on two great additions to your collection!
See you again hopefully in KL!
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