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Mark in Paris introduces the Vacheron Constantin reference 49005, a Perpetual Calendar Chronograph from 1992, highlighting its significance as the brand's first iteration of this complication. His post explores the watch's design, movement, and overall appeal, inviting fellow collectors to share their insights and experiences with this notable reference. The discussion provides valuable context for understanding VC's historical approach to complex watchmaking.
The main difference with the 2 last generations is that it was an automatic wound movement, which some may find a handy feature for a Perpetual Calendar as it allows the owner to put it on a winder until the next wearing period.
Crédit: Antiquorum
I understand the movement is based on a 1185 Frederic Piguet movement added to a VC Perpetual Calendar module (thank you Respo for the info): it is the 1136 QP (28 x 7.9 mm, 279 parts, 21,600 vph).
It looks quite simple, especially for a Chronograph movement, as we are used to seeing quite more impressive calibers in that field but, yet, it remains nicely finished (at least on this official picture). Anyway, it is hidden behind a solid caseback.
Credit: Vacheron Constantin website
It was produced in 500 rose gold pieces and less than 300 platinum pieces (figures from The Hour Lounge).
However, what looks amazing and something I often see in VC watches (and appreciate in watchmaking generally speaking) is the gorgeous dial layout. I can't speak about the finishing and material of the dial as I never saw one in the metal but the decoration (golden rings for the subsidiary dials) looks fantastic.
The watch really is elegant and of a rare beauty (I suspect it looks particularly as such especially in this picture).
I didn't find many quality pictures so if you have some to share, or are an owner of such a piece (or any experience with it) I'll be delighted to read you 
Cheers, Mark
The Vacheron Constantin ref. 49005 is a distinguished perpetual calendar chronograph, part of the brand's esteemed complications offerings. This reference represents a period where Vacheron Constantin combined traditional watchmaking with refined aesthetics, appealing to collectors seeking both technical prowess and classical design within a single timepiece.
This reference typically features a case diameter of 38mm, crafted in precious metals such as rose gold or platinum. It houses an automatic movement, often based on a Frédéric Piguet ébauche, enhanced with a perpetual calendar and chronograph module. The dial layout is characterized by its balanced sub-dials for the chronograph and perpetual calendar indications, including day, date, month, leap year, and moon phase.
The ref. 49005 holds relevance for collectors interested in Vacheron Constantin's complicated watches from the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Its combination of a perpetual calendar and chronograph, presented in a classically sized case, makes it a notable example of high horology from the era, appreciated for its intricate mechanics and enduring design.
And its fantastic moonphase. Without forgetting the malte lugs! Best, Nicolas
Yes, this is a very big asset of the 2 last generations, even if I think this "simpler" disk, in this particular case, matches quite well with this dial. The 39mm Malte is great too, with much more character but maybe a little less elegant and refined. And its Lemania movement and the romantic Officer's back, that's a hit for sure. Thanks Nicolas. Cheers, Mark
i have no wrist shots. Had a platinum white dial in sights many years ago. There is also a salmon dial platinum issued as well. There are very nice dimensions on this watch. Very wearable. Best Joe
More character? Best, Nicolas
The 1136 QP movement is based on the Frederic Piguet with an in-house perpetual calendar module by VC. The cal. 1136 QP remains in use in the Overseas Perpetual Chronograph. So, it is a well tested and robust movement, and automatic to boot, making it, as you noted already, very useful. I agree the proportions are very pleasant on this one. The design very much reminds me of the Historiques Chronograph ref. 47101/47111, which may be why it appeals to me so much. This one is very worth consideri
that your fellow moderator didn't recognize the FP 1185 ;-) Thanks for setting the record straight Robert.
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