Vacheron & Constantin Altesse Ref. 3681 in 18K Gold

CIRCA: 1947
REF.: 3681
CASE NUMBER: 310830
CASE MATERIAL: 18K yellow gold
CASE DIMENSIONS: 30 mm in diameter
DIAL: Original gloss black dial with gilt text and applied gold disc shaped hour markers
BRACELET MATERIAL: Black lizard
BRACELET SIZE: 5-1/2 to 7 inches
MOVEMENT: Manual wind
FUNCTIONS: Time only
CALIBER: V458
The Vacheron & Constantin Altesse is a watch of unique style from the late 1940s. The stepped case design is continued into the mid-section of the minute hand, creating a mystery dial effect with pointed hands and disc-shaped markers to really add to the mid-century design. The present example is all original and is truly a great example of a desirable collectible watch. The Altesse was one of the watches in the Vacheron "Nicknames" exhibition.

PROPERTY OF A FLORIDA ESTATE
Condition Report: The case is in excellent condition, with minor scratches throughout and no signs of over polishing. The dial is original, with some light pitting and patina under a loupe that does not detract from the watch. Watch is running at time of cataloging. Overall, the present example is in excellent condition.

Any reference to condition in a condition report will not include a full description of condition, and for example, may not specify all faults, alteration, adaptation, mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, or dial. Colors and shades may look different online or in printed materials than they look on physical inspection, and images may not clearly show the condition of a lot. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot in person and make their own evaluation of the lot. They must understand that any statement made by Fortuna Auction LLC ("Fortuna") is merely a subjective, qualified statement and does not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Fortuna. All dimensions in catalog descriptions are approximate. No warranties are made that watches in water-resistant cases are currently water-resistant. Fortuna does not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets or leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts.
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