amanico
[JLC Moderator]
368077
Vacheron Constantin Mercator Yellow Gold Russia and Europe, ref 43050.
It is not a mystery I am a huge fan of the Mercator. A special, refined, original and poetic piece from Vacheron which basically, made two versions, one with solid gold dial, and the other one with Enamel Champlevé dial.
If I am more fan of the Enamel Champlevé dials, I cannot deny the charm of the solid gold dials.
Here is an enemel Champlevé, " Germany ". Credit picture: Christies.
Now, the solid gold " Europe ":
And here, the Russia, limited to 20 pieces.
The Cal 1120. I always regretted that Vacheron didn't decorate this rotor, a bit more, like in the Saltarello, for example.
Let's end in beauty with the Europe and Russia versions, side by side.
There is one thing you have to experience by yourself, the ballet of the retrograde hands, and the " tac " they make when they are in action. Magic.
The Mercator is a pretty rare reference, with, according to a source very close to the brand, only 638 pieces in its 10 years life.
A last detail: Don't think 36 mm is too small here. In the reality, once on a normally sized wrist ( 16 to 17 cm ) , it is just perfect.
If you are looking for one, let me give you a recommendation: Be sure it has been recently serviced and check that the retrograde hands are working properly.
Best,
Nicolas
Vacheron Constantin Mercator Yellow Gold Russia and Europe, ref 43050.
It is not a mystery I am a huge fan of the Mercator. A special, refined, original and poetic piece from Vacheron which basically, made two versions, one with solid gold dial, and the other one with Enamel Champlevé dial. If I am more fan of the Enamel Cha...
Amazing duo (or trio)!
Thank you Nicholas for perfect pictures!! Always wanted to have pics of ALL 43050 (solid gold or enameled) for All editions with productions years and number of watches for each... )) WBR Serge
Merci!
For Lange we have a table from CR about almost all watches, but nothing for VC... WBR Serge
I love them!
Analog watches that my youngest daughter might read easily. Are they expensive? ;-)
In my top three watches ever ! I had the Platinum America’s dial . White metal being my preference.
Thank you for reminding us this rare gem .
Bravo, Nicolas! Once again you dazzle us with glimpses of heaven!
I've been aware of these magnificent pieces only since your post of… what? a month ago? six weeks? Whatever. And your description (I think this is what you meant) of the sound of the hands snapping back in retrograde only adds to the wonder. But a hopeful...
I had a couple of service issues with the brand a couple of years back so I sold all my Vacheron pieces ...
The only picture I have ... ...
So beautiful.
I have been looking at the Africa/Eurasia version in YG for a while. It's the kind of watch I would pursue now that I have lengthened the interval between buys. Thank you for the commentary (and the tips).