Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle

The Holy Trinity of watch brands: Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin. Far less understood than either of its respected compatriots, Vacheron Constantin has a legacy of producing some of the very finest haute horlogerie complications in history — and some of the loveliest expressions of simple timekeeping. Though the maison has several excellent collections, its Traditionnelle collection is in our opinion home to some of their very best watches, from simple, time-only models to highly complicated masterpieces. This particular Traditionnelle, a Reference 87172, falls firmly into the former camp. Clean and elegant throughout, It features a 38mm 18K white gold case with finely polished surfaces and bevels and a case thickness of only 8mm, making for a svelte wearing experience. Its non-luminous silver dial features a lovely frosted finish with a silvered ring and printed minute track, and is home to a dauphine handset, applied white gold indices, and a subtly recessed a subsidiary seconds register at 9 o'clock, also with a matching polished silver ring. To counter balance this sub register, the right side of the dial receives a date window. In other words ... timeless. It comes fitted to a signed alligator strap equipped with a signed 18k white gold pin buckle and is powered by the automatic Calibre 2455/1 providing a 40 hour power reserve. Viewable through a sapphire exhibition caseback, this movement has a beautifully finished winding mass in yellow gold. This watch has it all — pedigree, refinement, function, and an understated appeal. Practically perfect in every way!