The Mathematically Perfect Vacheron Constantin
Vacheron Constantin 1972 Prestige (2013) / Credit: Watchonista
In the 1970s, it became increasingly common to see watch companies experiment with a variety of colours. Along with colours, ‘70s wristwatch designers often experimented with unique case designs, much different than the traditional circular watches seen today.
In 1972, upon receiving the Diplôme du Prestige de la France by the French Government, Vacheron Constantin released the ‘Prestige’. This model featured an asymmetrical curved case which included an oval movement, highly emblematic of the 1970s style of individuality and experimentation. Vacheron Constantin was the first and only watchmaker to receive such an honour from the French Government.
The ‘Prestige du France’, as it is also known, was famous at the time of release, this is because it housed the world’s thinnest mechanical movement at the time – the Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1003 – measuring only 1.64 mm in thickness.
The Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1003, first released in 1955 at 1.64 mm thick / Credit: Vacheron Constantin
So, what kind of case would house the world’s thinnest watch movement? The 1972 Prestige du France had a case design that operated within the bounds of the ‘Golden Ratio’. The Golden Ratio is used to describe mathematically perfect designs and has been used by many famous designers throughout history, Pythagoras in Ancient Greece and Fibonacci in Italy would be two examples. This ratio has also been used in major works such as the Mona Lisa and the Parthenon. It is a relatively simple calculation in the design of the Vacheron Constantin Prestige, in which the length of the longer section of the watch case is divided by the opposite side, equalling the coveted Golden Ratio – 1.618.
Vacheron Constantin designed this watch after receiving the Diplôme du Prestige de la France, and it is proudly displayed on the caseback as a reminder. Couple this with the famous Caliber 1003, the world’s thinnest watch movement at the time, and a mathematically perfect case design. And that is precisely the reason for which Vacheron Constantin won the award for achievement and contribution to French heritage in 1972.
By: Eric Mulder
Read more:
“History.” Vacheron Constantin, https://www.vacheron-constantin.com/en2/manufacture/history.html.
“Caliber 1003.” Vacheron Constantin, https://www.vacheron-constantin.com/en/calibers/1003.html.
Carlson, Stephen C. “Golden Ratio.” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/science/golden-ratio.