VACHERON CONSTANTIN 18K 37.5mm Hunter Case ‘Caesar Constantin Era Ladies Key Wind/Set Pocket Watch Circa 1860’s Yellow Gold

Description

REMARKS: Very special antique pocket watch from a historical period for the great watchmaking brand of Vacheron & Constantin.  On this pocket watch’s dustcover it is engraved ‘Vacheron & Constantin Caesar Vacheron & Co Successors’ which points to 1867-1868 when the company transitioned to sole administration by Caesar Vacheron (the founder Jean-Marc’s great grandson).  The watch itself is a delicate and highly ornamental timepiece made approximately 150 years ago by Vacheron & Constantin with 18K solid gold hunter case having gorgeous and elaborate engine-turned engravings throughout the entire case.  There is also a superb engraving of a bouquet of flowers in the center of the caseback.  Inside the watch the movement is a gilt Swiss bridge movement with the correct signature for Vacheron & Constatin and it uses a cylinder escapement which is only present on watches before the 1870s.

CONDITION REPORT: Condition-wise the watch winds, sets and runs (for a short period) with the key affixed on the attached chain.  We cannot make any guarantee on its function as it is over 150 years old and we have not had it serviced.  Any maintenance or upkeeping is the sole responsibility of the end user.  Cosmetically there is a faint hairline radiating from center post to the 4 o’clock marker.  The movement has some areas of discoloration but overall its in great shape considering it does not have much rust.  The solid 18K gold case and bow are in excellent condition with the case free from surface dings and dents.  The winding key and chain are made from brass, not solid gold.  Diameter is 37.5mm, total weight (with key and chain included) is 43.3g.