Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921: A Centennial Reimagining

amanico · 2021-04-06T23:52:19Z

Explore the 2021 Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 white gold and platinum models. Discover collector insights on design, size, and anniversary expectations.

amanico

WPS member · Vacheron Constantin forum

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Nicolas (amanico) introduces the 2021 Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 releases, celebrating a century of this iconic design. His detailed overview, complete with dimensions and movement specifications, sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of these new models. This article synthesizes community reactions, offering a multi-faceted perspective on these significant anniversary editions.

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There are several versions which are unveiled, this year.

Two versions in white gold: 40 x 40 mm and 36, 5 mm.

And one in platinum, from the Collection " Excellence Platine":

For the record, the Platinum is not the first, as they launched the former one in 2016:

The 40 mm version is 8, 06 mm high. The 36, 5 mm version is 7, 45 mm high.

The movement is the same: Cal 4400, manual winding. And they all have a see through case back.

Best,

Nicolas

About the Vacheron Constantin Historiques Ref. American1921

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.

Specifications

Caliber: Caliber 4400 AS

Case: 18k rose gold

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The 36.5mm white gold Historiques American 1921 is praised for its subtle grey dial and black Breguet hands, offering a versatile aesthetic suitable for both dress and casual wear, and a refreshing alternative to prevalent green dials.
A point of contention for some collectors is the platinum applied indices on the new 1921 Platinum model, which are seen as lacking contrast and stealth compared to the older platinum sibling with its blue painted numerals.
There was anticipation among collectors for a special Limited Edition anniversary model, with some questioning if these releases were the full extent of the 100-year celebration or if further announcements were expected.
Some enthusiasts expressed a desire for an enamel dial version in a platinum case, consistent with the original 1921 dial, and even a left-handed configuration to truly honor the historical context.
The inclusion of 'Platinum' text on the dial of the Collection Excellence Platine models is viewed by some as an unnecessary and 'immature' design choice that detracts from the purity of the watch's aesthetic.
There was hope for a steel version of the Historiques American 1921, drawing a parallel to previous Vacheron Constantin releases like the Cornes de Vache, which offered more accessible material options.

The Discussion

amanico

Apr 7, 2021

What I think, too. I am looking forward to seeing it in the metal.

moc

Apr 7, 2021

Shame about that pt910 on the dial , real shame

amanico

Apr 7, 2021

Which is alas something usual on the dials of the " Excellence Platine " series.

moc

Apr 7, 2021

Alas it is , in this case it’s very prominent

As the design is so pure.. I never liked “explanation” on dials like: enamel, tourbillon, platinum... I find them very immature, perhaps in the late 90s😂😂😂 Mo

Alfihar

Apr 7, 2021

I like this dial... it makes me thinking of some Cartier...

amanico

Apr 7, 2021

I do get your idea...