Introduced in 1989 as part of the brand’s Historiques collection, the reference 47101/4 chronograph is the now neo-vintage interpretation of the 1940’s reference 4178. Beyond its historical reference, it’s a pretty damn perfect ideal of a classic chronograph: excellent 37 mm solid yellow gold intricately shaped case, highly modified and finished Lemania 2310 ebauche, and a stunningly perfect dial layout with perfect balance, refinement, and restraint. I particularly love the heavily serifed text on the warm eggshell sigma dial.

Case: The 37 x 45 x 10.5 mm solid 18 Karat gold case is in very good condition showing honest surface wear throughout, as photographed. It is believed to be unpolished with crisply faceted lugs and sharp hallmarks intact.

Dial: The opaline dial lands slightly on the warm side of white and is free of any defects. The applied yellow gold hour markers and sub register surrounds perfectly tie the watch together and present a stunningly classical package. The tempered blue central chronograph sweep hand exhibits slight oxidation, primarily visible under magnification.

Movement: The manually wound caliber 1140 is based on a modified and highly finished Lemania 2310 ebauche, featuring beautiful finishing details throughout such as the mirror polished swan’s neck regulator. The watch is winding, setting, and running smoothly at approximately

Strap: Presented on its original black alligator strap with signed Maltese cross pin buckle. The strap is in good condition, measuring 115 x 72 mm.

Includes: Original outer box, inner leather folio with multiple compartments, sueded travel pouch, and manual booklet.

A contemporary or competitor to the likes of the Breguet 3237 and Patek 5070 with the same (or arguably superlative with additional finishing and modification) movement, equally beautiful dial and case and at a substantial discount, it seems the market has been caught sleeping!