The Ultimate vintage-inspired chronograph? As modern, high-end chronographs go, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955 is one of the most desirable, being a beautifully executed remake that’s faithful to the vintage original, while powered by an upgraded version of a well-regarded movement.  WatchesbySJX

“what has to be one of the most exciting new watches to come out of 2019,” Hodinkee

A long-held gem of watch media and seasoned collectors, the Vacheron Constantin Cornes de Vache 1955 in Stainless Steel just might be that “ultimate vintage-inspired chronograph,” and perhaps one of the ultimate quiet heavy hitters or sleeper grails.  To me, it’s a sign of a discerning collector: a historically important design and movement modernized and made more insider-geeky in steel. 

Case: The 38.5 x 47 x 10.8 mm stainless steel case prominently features its namesake “cow horn” lugs, adapted from the historic ref. 6087, that had considerable wrist presence (and elegance) while maintaining classic (i.e. not bloated modern PP sizing) proportions.  The case is in very good condition throughout, believed to be unpolished, and showing only very minor surface swirls, as pictured.

Dial: The very light-gray dial is a serious lesson in restraint and balance, with just a bit of pop from the subtle, faded-red 5-minute markings, and prominent heat blued chronograph sweep and minute counter hands.  The dial is free from any imperfections. 

Movement: Featuring the VC caliber 1142, a manually wound, Geneva Seal, ‘in-house’ chronograph movement that updates the venerable Lemania 2310 base caliber.  The movement is excellently finished and even tastefully showcases the brand’s Maltese Cross on the column wheel hub.  The watch is winding, setting, and operating properly at approximately -1 s/d averaged across 6 positions, service history is unknown.

Includes: The watch is presented on its original brown calfskin strap by Serapian and includes the original outer box, inner wooden presentation box, felt box cover, document holder (manual/booklet is not included) and guarantee dated January 28, 2020.