The Vacheron Constantin ref. 4072 Is a Stunning Double Register Chronograph
Vacheron Constantin ref. 4072 / Credit: Antiquorum
Vacheron often flies under the radar with respect to its counterparts, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. But in terms of vintage watches, it created some truly remarkable examples. One of my favourites is the 4870, it is said that every 24 watches produced of this reference, the company would change the dial configuration; meaning that finding the exact dial configuration that you want for the ref. 4870 would be a real challenge! Like the ref. 4870, the Vacheron Constantin ref. 4072 also had dozens of dial variations – with slighter changes like using Arabic or Roman numerals, to more noticeable ones like having a telemeter or tachymeter scale around the inner bezel.
Vacheron Constantin ref. 4072 dial variations
The Vacheron ref. 4072, is a particularly intriguing vintage watch; a stunning double register chronograph whose design is a perfect representation of style in the early 20th century. The Arabic numerals stand out in particular, where applicable. The Vacheron 4072 was released in 1938 and less than 1,200 examples were made until the line was discontinued in the early ‘70s (1,178 according to Vacheron Constantin). It was a direct competitor of the famed Patek Philippe ref. 1463 and used two different, modified versions of the Valjoux Caliber 13/VZ, just like the Patek 1463’s Caliber 13’’’130. As we already alluded to, the watch also had different scales, like the telemeter or tachymeter scale, around the inner bezel, and in most cases blued steel hands. Of the 1,200 examples known to be produced about a quarter were made in yellow gold, as it was more fashionable at the time.
To me the 4072 is one of the best examples of an early/mid-century double register chronograph, for its symmetry and simplicity. Also, I love seeing ‘Vacheron & Constantin’ on the dial, as opposed to their updated logo. It’s a true emblem of Vacheron’s hundred plus year dedication to high horology, all the 4072’s missing are the Cornes de Vaches lugs to make it complete.
By: Eric Mulder