Vacheron Constantin

Hello all...

Here is my latest acquisition, something I have been after for quite some time A Chronometre Royal. I believe this is a Ref 6161, yellow gold with the P1008 movement. I had been looking for this particular case design with these lugs based on the Vacheron Maltese Cross logo.

It was first introduced in 1955 but not used in the Chrono Royal til about 1959.

The indices when extended also show a Maltese cross design and there was even one dial with the logo embossed on it.

Bill Lind’s excellent review from this site is here as is one from the Hour Lounge

 

vacheron.watchprosite.com

 

https://www.thehourlounge.com/en/vacheron-constantin-discussions/vacheron-chronom%C3%A8tre-royal-6161-600870

 

There is also a similar article, in French, by François on the French website, “Montres Mechaniques”.

 

http://montresmecaniques.forumactif.com/t7378-revue-vacheron-constantin-chronometre-royal-6161-une-montre-esoterique

 

A search of the aforementioned sites also yields a great deal of interesting information on the Chronometre Royal watches.

This watch does not have the beautiful guillochéed dial of François watch, nor the unique black dial of Berny’s nor Tony’s lovely CR with the gold bracelet from the early 50’s, but it’s still quite lovely.

Here are some pics.

The ones with the inside back of the case and the movement are courtesy of the former owner.

 

Huge congratulation!


Best
Blomman

 

A beautiful watch. Wear in the best of health.  It is so hard finding a piece in great condition. Yours looks beautiful

Hopefully I'll get a chance to show it to you.
Best,
Joseph

The Chronometre Royal with 1008/BS is one of the more important watches for the vintage VC collector to have. I'm so glad to see one in your collection, and in such nice condition. This one might be worth getting a COA when you send it in for service.

Bill

I was thinking the same thing.
It is in excellent condition inside and out!
Regards,
Joseph

No message body

I am quite pleased with the acquisition.
Best,
Joseph

No message body

 

No message body

It took a while to find it, but it was worth it.

No message body

 

It is the littlest details that make the biggest differences.  After a day of revisiting this post and re-looking at the pictures, I think my favorite feature (as you pointed out) is the way that the indices echo the lines of the Maltese Cross.  I would love to see the one you refer too that actually shows the Maltese Cross on the face.  I personally think the subtlety of this piece - it's gestures in the direction of the cross, rather than just splashing it onto the face - is more attractive, but I would love to see VC's more literal interpretation as well.

Smehow the reference to the article with the photo got mangled. Here it is:
vacheron.watchprosite.com

and here is the relevant pic:

Best,
Joseph

///

Most kind of you.
Joseph

Sorry I was on leave for my 10th anniversary and missed this post!
Once again Joseph you got yourself another rare and fine watch which shows your fine taste in watches!

Very happy for you.
Enjoy in the best of health!

Cheers
Robin

You are too kind!
Best,
Joseph

Needless to say I love it, it's for me the top of what you can get in a three hands watch.