American - 1921
The cushion-shape design has been part of the Vacheron Constantin portfolio since the late 1910s. In the Roaring Twenties pocket watches were still dominating the trends. Wearing this type of wristwatch was a strong sign of modernity that enjoyed great success among the American clientele. This rare model is made unusual by the position of the crown at 1 o’clock. It was produced for left and right-handed people for a short period of 10 years. The early wristwatch movements were based on pendant watch movement constructions. Referenced under caliber 11’’’ ART they were finished using classical pocket watch finishes such as gilt bridges and main plates. Within these calibers a special finishing was reserved for the American market, which was known for its demanding customers. The variations were caliber 11’’’62 and 11’’’78, which were equipped with an extra ruby. Their bridges and mainplates were usually made in German Silver alloy, which naturally protected them against corrosion.
