Arguably the most significant chronographs of the last thirty plus years, the Datograph, particularly the first gen Datograph, is appreciated and lauded by all, with no shortage of guides, articles, tributes, dissections, and dissertations dedicated to the truly important watch. Alp, of Langepedia paid tribute to this particular reference in his perennial guide to the model:

Among the usual three, I’d claim that the reference 403.032, pink gold / argenté dial is the underrated one. If Datograph collection would be Metallica, this one would be the Jason Newsted of the group. No less talented, yet overshadowed by its predecessor. Indeed, the original platinum / black dial Datograph plays a huge part in the 403.032‘s inpopularity; because people think that the black dial version is the one to have for collectability purposes. It is true to some extent, however, the 403.032 is no less beautiful. In fact, in comparison, it is much more sober and present; hence it certainly lures its own crowd.

If you’re here and you’re considering this watch, you know the story, the importance, and gravitas of the reference, so turning to this specific example… well, it’s a good one.

Reference: 403.032 Pink gold case, silver dial

Case: The 39 x 47.5 x 12.8 mm pink gold case is in excellent original condition and believed to be unpolished, showing sharp and perfectly defined facets, chamfers, and edges to the soldered lugs.  Minor surface swirls are present as photographed and exaggerated in the light box conditions.  This case is extremely sharp and clean.

Dial: The subtly grained argente silver dial provides a gentle warmth and texture to complement the pink gold case and is free of any defects.  The heat blued running seconds and elapsed minute counter add subtle color contrast to the highly legible layout. 

Movement: The L951.1 movement needs little introduction as an absolute city infrastructure of a layout with endless details to study, examine, and admire. The depth and layers of the movement deserve and command your attention in the metal, with endless finishing details at each level. The watch is winding, setting, and operating perfectly with crisp date changes and chronograph operation, running at approximately +1 s/d, averaged across 6 positions and strong amplitude ranging from 280 to 355 degrees and minimal beat error. 

Strap: The watch is presented on its original dark brown alligator strap measuring 115 x 72 and includes the original pink gold buckle in equally excellent condition.

Includes: The original outer sleeve, outer box, inner presentation box, leather document holder, guarantee booklet with March 2009 date of sale, manual booklet, cleaning cloth, boutique listing card, a true full set.