Collection
Freccero initiates a compelling discussion on the Vacheron Constantin Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955, positioning it as an underrated masterpiece against its more popular rivals, the A. Lange & Söhne Datograph and Patek Philippe 5170. His analysis delves into design nuances, movement origins, and market perception, inviting collectors to weigh in on this exquisite chronograph.
The Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955 is a chronograph model that draws inspiration from a specific Vacheron Constantin chronograph reference from the mid-20th century. It is part of the Historiques collection, which reinterprets significant designs from the brand's heritage. This particular model is notable for its distinctive "cow horn" lugs, a design element that gives the watch its name and sets it apart from more conventional chronograph cases.
The case of the Cornes de Vache 1955 is crafted from precious metal, typically rose gold, and features the characteristic sculpted lugs. It houses a manually wound chronograph movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The dial layout is a classic bi-compax chronograph configuration, with a tachymeter scale around the periphery. The crystal protecting the dial is sapphire, often with an anti-reflective coating.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate vintage-inspired designs and the craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking. Its faithful recreation of a historical Vacheron Constantin chronograph, combined with modern manufacturing standards, makes it a sought-after piece. The Cornes de Vache 1955 is offered in various precious metal iterations, each maintaining the core design elements that define this distinctive model within the Historiques collection.
but the Datograph was a revolution that shook up the old Swiss boys club and for that reason it is the top chronograph in my mind. Also I do prefer its sporty heft compared to the dressiness of the PP and VC. Probably the more apt comparison is the Lange 1815 chronograph. The VC has great appeal intrinsically but VC's management does not seem to be able to build the kind of momentum that elevates the brand and the blog watch was a misstep that hurt its cachet.
it would be the datograph. I love both the original icon and the up/down as it sits more comfortably on the wrist and any follow up to the icon was going to be controversial. In my opinion reflection will be kind to the up/down. Best,
because of its lugs that you rightly pointed out and its more modest 38.5mm watch case. I know the datograph is a cult watch that many tend to compare with other chronographs but in my opinion, a more attractive and better value watch from Lange is the 1815 chronograph with a black dial that not only triumphs over the datograph but also over the Patek and Vacheron.
maybe i'm the minority here because my favorite duo is the VC & PP 5170 (with pulsometer). and if i could only choose one, it would be the PP5170. thanks
You said well the Datograph was a Revolution in Swiss watchmaking. Instead of the Dato I could have put the 1815 chrono... yes but I didi not because it is a bit more affordable than the other two and I wanted to compare the VC with its most direct competitors also in terms of price. The lack of appreciation could be bound to the fact that VC is not able to build a solid reputation to the watch but as you said also VC itself could be much better. Best.
Nevertheless, from a pure aesthetic point of view, the VC is the nicest timepiece for me. These lugs are wonderful and when you know the related story, that adds something more. My choice would be the VC first and then, equally, the PP and Lange (or second place if it's the Dato first generation and not the 1815 I owned few years ago). Best wishes Alkiro
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