Vacheron & Constantin 18K solid yellow gold REF. 6396 Ultra-Thin CAL. 1003 Men's Watch Vintage 1960s
SKU:
vc cal 1003-2
$4,100.00
$3,800.00
$3,800.00
On Sale
This Vacheron Constantin from the early 1960s is absolutely stunning in solid 18k yellow gold and a flawless original silver dial. A couple points of interest about this particular model is the use of the fascinating caliber 1003, wide bezel, and a rare screw in case back; which I believe was an attempt to improve moisture tightness at the time as many other manufacturers were moving in that direction. It was very difficult I imagine to create this case for an ultra-thin of the size. I also believe this is the only reference that uses this case.
The caliber 1003 was originally conceived by JLC as Cal 803 on request from Vacheron and AP. No one else, not even Jaeger-LeCoultre has used this movement. VC named it Cal 1003 and AP Cal 2003. First introduced by VC in 1955, and still the thinnest movement produced to this date at 1.64 mm high and diam 20.80 mm. The 1003 is chronometer quality and it has no shock proofing, because it's so light. It's really one of a hand full of horological accomplishments of all time. Most people don;t realize that a true ultra-thin such as this, is more difficult, expensive and exclusive that most other highly complicated watches. Vacheron models containing the cal. 1003 today sell for over $20k. Going vintage is a real bargain.
This watch is completely original including the strap and buckle. Measures approximately 31.5mm in diameter; a perfect gents dress watch. The watch was recently overhauled and is running well.
This watch with cal 1003 is still made today as Vacheron Constantin ref 33155; of coarse with some changes such as size and movement finish and retails for $29,600.
The caliber 1003 was originally conceived by JLC as Cal 803 on request from Vacheron and AP. No one else, not even Jaeger-LeCoultre has used this movement. VC named it Cal 1003 and AP Cal 2003. First introduced by VC in 1955, and still the thinnest movement produced to this date at 1.64 mm high and diam 20.80 mm. The 1003 is chronometer quality and it has no shock proofing, because it's so light. It's really one of a hand full of horological accomplishments of all time. Most people don;t realize that a true ultra-thin such as this, is more difficult, expensive and exclusive that most other highly complicated watches. Vacheron models containing the cal. 1003 today sell for over $20k. Going vintage is a real bargain.
This watch is completely original including the strap and buckle. Measures approximately 31.5mm in diameter; a perfect gents dress watch. The watch was recently overhauled and is running well.
This watch with cal 1003 is still made today as Vacheron Constantin ref 33155; of coarse with some changes such as size and movement finish and retails for $29,600.
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