THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: VACHERON CONSTANTIN
MODEL: 4240
YEAR: 1946
CASE DIAMETER: 35mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

In the period following the Art Deco era and amidst the turbulence of World War II, Vacheron Constantin continued its tradition of innovation and boundary-pushing design. The brand had been crafting calendar watches since the late 1920s, but it was until this reference, 4240, that VC started serially produce triple-calendar watches. 

With a diameter of 35mm, the ref. 4240 was considered relatively large, as most men's dress watches of the time typically measured around 32 to 33mm. The unmistakable "Cornes de Vache" lugs—translated as "cow horn" in English—and the gadroon-like profile around the case are exceptionally striking and elegant. These cases were available in either 18k yellow or rose gold, with a very limited number produced in steel.

This is easily one of the prettiest watches to come out of the 1940s, gorgeous.