Vacheron Constantin Ultra-fine 1968

Vacheron Constantin “Historiques” collection

 
Rating: 68 %1000 with 340 votes
Published by 3808 on November 20th, 2009 at 12:19 p.m..

The “Historique Ultra-fine 1968” watch and Calibre 1120

Vacheron Constantin has chosen to make 2010 a tribute year to its ultra-thin timepieces by reissuing, again within its “Historiques” collection, a square-shaped model dating from 1968 and equipped with the famous ultra-thin self-winding Calibre 1120.

In revisiting this watch, the Manufacture has adopted an extremely distinctive style: that of the 1960s. This 4N 18-carat rose gold timepiece creates a striking contrast between the strict square dial opening and the slightly curving case flanks. The resulting design exudes an impression of elegant understatement, further accentuated by a vertical-brushed silver-coloured dial adorned with simple and geometrical hour-markers.

The pared-down lugs lend a pleasingly strict touch to the overall effect, while the sapphire crystal that is bevelled all around further underscores the ties between this watch and the non-conformist period when it was first launched. Everything about the design echoes the legendary Swinging Sixties through an original model that has in time become a great classic.

Compared with the original 1968 watch (reference 7614), the watch now presented features updated technical characteristics in tune with modern times: water resistance to 3 bar, equivalent to around 30 metres; a sapphire crystal, and a clipped-down solid case-back exactly like the original model.

Despite such improvements, which generally tend to increase bulk, this watch measuring 35.2 mm along its sides is even thinner than its historical predecessor: 5.5 mm compared with 6.52 mm, making it one of the thinnest watches in its category.

Like the 1968 model, the contemporary version is equipped with the ultra-thin self-winding Calibre 1120. This exceptional movement driving hour and minute hands has powered some of the most prestigious ultra-thin self-winding watches in horological history.

Despite its apparent simplicity, it features a sophisticated construction that called for some unusual technical solutions. For this re-edition, the Manufacture Vacheron Constantin has rebuilt the calibre: although its dimensions – 28 mm in diameter and 2.45 thick – remain unchanged, it is now equipped with an 18-carat gold oscillating weight bearing the Maltese Cross system. It offers an approximately 40-hour power reserve. Stamped with the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, its exceptional finishing features Côtes de Genève, bevelling and chamfering on all parts, and hand-drawn flanks.

By way of conclusion, Vacheron Constantin has chosen in 2010 re-issue two ultra-thin watches that have made their mark on its history, duly christened “Historique Ultra-fine 1955” and “Historique Ultra-fine 1968”. By choosing to equip them with the same legendary vintage calibres – the 1003 and 1020 rebuilt for the occasion and now bearing the independent and sovereign Hallmark of Geneva certification – the Manufacture is showcasing its peerless creativity in the field of exceptional classic watches. And in the process, it is also demonstrating its complete mastery of extreme slenderness by treating it as a full-fledged complication in its own right.

Vacheron Constantin and Pisa Orologeria
Vacheron Constantin Ultra-fine 1955

 
Simply copy this code and paste it on your forum or blog to make a link to this content

Similar to Vacheron Constantin Ultra-fine 1968

Vacheron Constatin The Métiers d’Art “Les Dragons”

The Métiers d’Art Limited edition of 9 numbered pieces

 
Vacheron Constantin Ultra-fine 1955

Vacheron Constantin “Historiques” collection

 
Vacheron Constantin heritage

The ultra-thin

 
 

Also from Vacheron Constantin

SIHH 2009 Vacheron Constantin - The New Patrimony Collection

The New Patrimony Models: Consummate Purity and Elegance

 
Vacheron Constantin new Overseas models 2009

This summer the Overseas is dressed in grey: a monochromatic theme from bezel to dial to strap for a sporty, dynamic and elegant timepiece.

 
TRIBUTE TO A FLAMBOYANT CENTENARIAN

TRIBUTE TO A FLAMBOYANT CENTENARIAN by VACHERON CONSTANTIN

 
Vacheron Constantin Quai de l'île

An additional 100,000 Swiss francs for the Monaco Association against Muscular Dystrophy

 
Vacheron Constantin AMERICAS - MEXICO

2009: Presentation of the third and final set “Les Masques”

 
PLATINUM MALTE PERPETUAL CALENDAR

PLATINUM MALTE PERPETUAL CALENDAR by VACHERON CONSTANTIN

 
The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac

Introducing a new opus in the saga of the Métiers d'Art collection, Vacheron Constantin presents The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac

 
Prix Vacheron Constantin des Sciences 2011

A beautiful ceremony for the "Prix Vacheron Constantin des Sciences"

 
KALLA LUNE DAZZLING MASTERPIECE

KALLA LUNE by VACHERON CONSTANTIN

 
Vacheron Constantin heritage

The ultra-thin