Vacheron Constantin: Vintage Hour Glass

teacher Sun · 2023-02-06T05:27:13Z

Explore the Vacheron Constantin Ref. 4591 'The Hour Glass' with teacher Sun. A deep dive into post-WWII design, dial originality, and vintage collecting philosophy.

teacher Sun

WPS member · Vacheron Constantin forum

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In this insightful article, teacher Sun delves into the captivating world of vintage Vacheron Constantin, specifically focusing on the iconic Ref. 4591, affectionately known as 'The Hour Glass.' This piece offers a unique perspective on post-WWII V&C aesthetics and the critical nuances of collecting vintage timepieces, particularly concerning dial originality and condition. teacher Sun's personal philosophy on preserving the historical integrity of these watches provides a valuable framework for both seasoned collectors and those new to vintage horology.

vintage V&C, ref.4591,nickname the hour glass.

After the World War II, the society was stable, the economy was restored and vigorous. V&C produced a lot of iconic models from the end of 1940s to the end of 1950s, which were unique in combination with the post-war aesthetic and architectural design. This one produced later in the 4591 model. The signature printed in black, and the earlier dials usually use the guilloche process and enamel signature. Because the structure was not waterproof, I have never seen the untouched vintage V&C dial of the rectangular case in nos condition, and it is extremely rare to cannot see defects with the naked eye. A 64-year-old beauty has traces of years on her face, but it is natural and harmonious.

Here I would like to express my personal point of view: for vintage V&C after 1940s, refinished dial , I can't accept it, but very few rare models can be accepted redone; Before the 1930s, it was almost impossible to have a perfect dial and case. If you can accept the refurbished dial, it should also fit to the craft and artistic characteristics of that year.

Key Points from the Discussion

Evaluating a vintage Vacheron Constantin involves a three-step process: Authenticity, Originality, and Relevancy. Authenticity is confirmed through archive research, while originality considers the impact of replacements like straps, crowns, and crystals versus more significant alterations like polished cases and redials.
The presence or absence of the 'SWISS' designation on Vacheron Constantin dials from the 1950s can be inconsistent, especially on rare platinum cases with diamond dials. This suggests that identifying such pieces can be more complex than standard models.
While some collectors may prefer round watches, the cultural value of watches, including the appreciation for diverse aesthetic expressions like rectangular cases, should be understood within their historical and geographical context.
The 'SWISS' label was a legal requirement for watches leaving the Manufacture, and its absence on a vintage dial could be due to it being obscured, rubbed away, or omitted if the dial was reprinted. This factor must be weighed against other characteristics when assessing originality.
Maintaining the original state of a vintage Vacheron Constantin is paramount, even if it means accepting signs of age. A high level of dust removal without destroying the original appearance is acceptable, but repairing oxidized, discolored, or damaged dials, even if they look good, compromises originality.
A period-correct buckle significantly enhances the originality and desirability of a vintage watch, even though modern Maltese buckles and straps are commonly used for practical reasons.

The Discussion

teacher Sun

Feb 6, 2023

Describing the state of a watch is much easier than describing an event.

teacher Sun

Feb 6, 2023

In forum a friend once said that after the 200th anniversary of VC in 1955, the design style began to change. The 4591 model used a lot of guilloche dials before 1955. Mine was produced in 1958, then the dial started to get simpler.

Mary Anny

Feb 6, 2023

Your hour glass is sublime

Tick Talk

Feb 6, 2023

A shaped calibre adds technical refinement to its graceful exterior. Please share some impressions of the movement. Nice photo composition!

teacher Sun

Feb 6, 2023

I hope you join in and share your suggestions about vintage V&C collections. I know that many people stay away from watches which look old and have oxidized dials. My personal point of view is that in different historical periods, V&C made different iconic models, and it is more important to keep the original state as much as possible than look good. Of course, everyone's acceptance of appearance is different.

teacher Sun

Feb 6, 2023

Watches carry important cultural value. Most of my friends around me don't like the iconic models, because in our culture, round is more natural and harmonious. But watch culture originates from its place of origin, and it seems inappropriate to measure it with exotic traditional aesthetics. In our traditional culture, overly flamboyant personality and exaggerated appearance are considered rude. But from another country, this is natural or free expression. I think there is no problem. There are

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