WPS member · Vacheron Constantin forum
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Laser01, a new pocket watch collector, seeks assistance in identifying the movement of a recently acquired Vacheron Constantin 'Corps of Engineers' pocket watch. This post highlights the challenges and intricacies of vintage watch authentication and restoration, particularly for military-issued timepieces.
Hi,
This is my first time posting, I am new to pocket watches and I have have just bough this watch and I hope it is good. The stem is missing but it works. Any information world be great. The movement caught my attention.
Case # 23570, Watch ID 1720 Serial number in movement is 382001.
Thank you!
Key Points from the Discussion
- Several links to WatchProSite articles and external resources are provided, offering extensive historical context and technical details on Vacheron Constantin Corps of Engineers pocket chronographs.
- It is crucial to contact Vacheron Constantin's concierge service to verify if the movement and case combination is original, as this significantly impacts the watch's value.
- Obtaining spare parts for vintage Vacheron Constantin pocket watches is extremely difficult, often requiring custom fabrication or sourcing from other 'wrecked' watches.
- The movement in the acquired watch appears similar to a Vacheron Constantin Observatory Chronometer movement, suggesting it might not be original to a CoE case, which requires further investigation.
- The author confirmed with Vacheron Constantin that the watch was manufactured in 1918 and plans to order an extract from the archives to further authenticate the piece.
- A warning about the dangers of radium luminous paint on vintage watches is given, advising collectors to keep such pieces intact or have them professionally handled due to health risks.
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