Vacheron Constantin launches a brand new, revisited version of its iconic Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar. Dressed in a precious platinum case and equipped with the new Manufacture Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1142 QP, this Hallmark of Geneva certified Traditionnelle watch combines two key Fine Watchmaking complications: the chronograph and the perpetual calendar.
The Traditionnelle collection’s distinctive design codes are reflected in each and every detail: the stepped case with a distinctive fluted pattern on the back, the dauphine-style hands and the railway-type minute track. A white tachymeter scale surrounding the dial accentuates the technical nature of the watch.
Exemplifying a concern for legibility, the dial features various shades of grey with finishes that differ according to the functions, reflecting the layout of 1940s Vacheron Constantin chronographs. Standing out against a slate-coloured opaline base, the small seconds and chronograph minute counters are distinguished by a circular-brushed ring with snailed centre.
Positioned in the centre of the date counter with a dark grey rim, the hand-finished moon disc 22K in white gold in provides a symbolic depiction of a moon face that is alternately smiling or melancholy, depending on the path of the Earth’s satellite.
Caliber 1142 QP, a state-of-the art movement entirely designed and developed within the Manufacture, replaces the previous 1141 QP.
Visible through the transparent sapphire crystal caseback, the new movement drives the perpetual calendar functions – with indications of the date, days, months, leap years and moon phases – as well as the chronograph functions with a direct-drive seconds hands and 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, positioned opposite the small seconds at 9 o’clock. This movement does not need any adjustments until March 1st 2100.
With the development of this new caliber, the Vacheron Constantin watchmakers and developers have been keenly attentive to the energy constraints relating to the chronograph functions, in order to minimise their impact on the 48-hour power reserve.
The oscillation frequency of the balance has also been raised from 2.5 to 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations/hour) so as to increase reliability and shock resistance. Like all Vacheron Constantin movements, this new caliber was developed and designed to meet the stringent Hallmark of Geneva criteria.
The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle chronograph perpetual calendar is fitted with a hand stitched Mississippiensis alligator leather strap secured by a 950 platinum folding clasp.
Technical details
Model: Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Chronograph Perpetual Calendar Platinum, Reference 5000T/000P-B048
Certification
Hallmark of Geneva certified timepiece
Movement
Caliber1142 QP
Developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin
Mechanical, manual-winding
27.5 mm (12’’’) diameter, 7.37 mm thick
Approximately 48 hours of power reserve
3 Hz (21,600 vibrations/hour)
324 components
21 jewels
Indications
Hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o’clock
Perpetual calendar (day of the week, date, month, leap year indication
Moon phase
Column-wheel chronograph (30-minute counter) at 3 o’clock
Case
950 platinum
43 mm diameter, 12.94 mm thick
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water-resistance tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approx. 30 meters)
Dial
Slate-coloured, opaline, 22K white gold moon disc
White painted tachymeter scale
18K white gold hour-markers
Strap
Black Mississippiensis alligator leather with alligator inner shell, hand-stitched, saddle-finish, large square scales
Clasp
950 platinum folding clasp
Polished half Maltese cross-shaped
Presentation box
With watch winder
Accessory
Delivered with a corrector pen
