VACHERON CONSTANTIN 18k REQUTANGULAR 1940s

In 1931, the Reverso was introduced — a reversible wristwatch that would go on to become a cultural icon in watchmaking, a design that continues to endure even today.

In its early years, the movement was supplied by Tavannes, but in 1933 LeCoultre developed its own solutions specifically adapted for the reversible case. This resulted in the creation of the Caliber 410, measuring only 3.5 mm in height and featuring a small seconds display, followed by the Caliber 411, which incorporated a center seconds configuration.

These developments allowed the movement architecture to properly accommodate the unique reversible case construction. From that point onward, Caliber 410 would become the foundation for numerous derivative movements.

In 1934, Caliber 413 was introduced, and in 1935 the date-equipped Caliber 412 followed.

A major turning point came in 1938, when the Geneva-based holding company SAPIC acquired Vacheron Constantin. In effect, the specialized watchmaking company Spécialités Horlogères, formed by Edmond Jaeger and Jacques-David LeCoultre, absorbed SAPIC and became deeply involved in the management of Vacheron Constantin.

As a result, watches produced under the LeCoultre name were manufactured within the Vacheron Constantin facilities, while watches sold under Jaeger-LeCoultre were produced at the Les Sentiers factory.

Within this context, in 1939, the year following LeCoultre’s participation in management, a movement based on the architecture of the Caliber 410 but uniquely adapted for Vacheron Constantin was introduced:

Caliber 435.

Developed under the leadership of the master watchmaker Paul Lepeu and his technical team, the Caliber 435 built upon the functionality of the 410 while enhancing durability and elevating aesthetic refinement.

The movement features a separate bridge for the escapement, while the crown wheel includes a newly designed washer that provides controlled play, ensuring smooth transmission of energy from the winding crown through the ratchet wheel.

In terms of finishing, the movement displays a distinctive form of Côtes de Genève decoration. Instead of the standard two sweeping waves across the bridge, the pattern is divided into six finely executed waves, creating an even more delicate and refined visual effect.

Such finishing has been said to rival — or even surpass — that of Patek Philippe’s Caliber 9-90, a movement widely regarded as one of the most beautiful rectangular calibers ever produced. The beauty of the Caliber 435 is so striking that simply observing it can leave the viewer breathless.

Interestingly, when viewed from the front, the watch appears rather understated. Yet once the angle changes, its true character emerges. The case rises boldly from the sides, with strong vertical lines and sharply defined edges that create a dramatic architectural profile.

It is a design that clearly reflects a deep obsession with aesthetic form — transcending the boundaries of ordinary watch design.

Operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour, and equipped with a screw balance and a Breguet overcoil hairspring, the movement reveals an unwavering dedication to durability, precision, and decorative excellence.

In every detail, one can sense a watchmaking philosophy that refused to compromise.

- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -