W&W 2023: Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date Salmon Dial (Live Pictures)

Inspired by the Vacheron Constantin retrograde models from the 1920s and 1930s, now comes the new Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date Salmon dial in an exquisite platinum case measuring 42.5 mm in diameter. The salmon-colored dial features a sunburst pattern and beneath the 12 o'clock hour marker sits a faceted Maltese cross in relief crafted in 18K 5N pink gold with sandblasted and polished facets. The two retrograde indications —day and date— are indicated by blued steel hands, while the hours and minutes are displayed by 18K white gold hands.

In classic 1950s style, the applied 18K white gold hour markers are subtly curved to match the shape of the domed dial. The circular-grained peripheral minutes track is also inspired by this era in a revisited version. Featured in Vacheron Constantin watches since the 1940s, salmon-colored dials make an ideal match with cases in white metal: particularly steel, notably with the legendary chronograph Reference 4178; as well as platinum, with which it forms a rare combination sought after by collectors and devotees of rare models.

The combination of platinum case and salmon-colored dial was picked up in the 1990s, again in conjunction with complications, such as the classic chronograph Reference 47101 and the 1992 self-winding perpetual calendar chronograph Reference 49005.

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date Salmon Dial is powered by the automatic calibre 2460 R31R7/3 which is fitted with a 22K gold openworked oscillating weight and a 40-hour power reserve. The movement is fully visible via the display case back.

The watch is delivered on a dark blue alligator strap with tone-to-tone stitching and equipped with a platinum pin buckle. This new model is exclusively available at Vacheron Constantin boutiques.

Sticker Price TBC. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date Salmon Dial  Wristshot