Vacheron Constantin - Malte 100th Anniversary Edition
SIHH 2012: Malte 100th Anniversary Edition
The year 1912 is a milestone date in the history of Vacheron Constantin as it displayed outstanding inspiration in adopting the tonneau shape for its timepieces – a novel feature in watchmaking history. Representing an authentic revolution in the field of horological design codes, almost entirely dominated at the time by the rounded shape typical of pocket watches, this model proved an immediate success among both men and women. It would take several years before form watches would assert themselves as a genuine alternative to classic timepieces, and a means of affirming the resolutely individual personality of their wearer.In celebration of this pioneering spirit, Vacheron Constantin has decided to present the Malte 100th Anniversary Edition model, a hand-wound watch issued in a 100-piece limited series.
The case is distinguished by its finesse, by the subtle elegance of its lines, by the curve of its middle section, and by its discreet lugs featuring a delicate shape that accentuates the classicism of a timeless model. The dial is adorned with painted Roman numerals echoing those on historical models. Such a timepiece naturally had to be crafted from the noblest of mateirals, which is why Vacheron Constantin is introducing this anniversary edition in a 36.7 x 47.6 mm case made of 950 platinum.
This Malte 100th Anniversary model is equipped with Vacheron Constantin hand-wound Calibre 4400, driving the hour and minute hands.
This movement entirely developed and crafted within the Manufacture, and featuring exceptional finishing, is endowed with a 65-hour power reserve thanks to its large barrel. Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), it comprises 106 parts and measures a respectable 28.60 mm (12.5’’’), a size ideally suited to the dimensions of contemporary cases.
The 100 watches in this Malte 100th Anniversary Edition, each individually numbered on the caseback, are fitted with a strap in blue Mississippiensis alligator leather, secured by a Malte cross-shaped buckle in 950 platinum.
The Malte 100th Anniversary Edition model meets the new requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva. Instated in 1886 by the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the Hallmark of Geneva is a guarantee of origin, of craftsmanship, of durability and of expertise. This unique quality label has just undergone a fundamental transformation, since the certification no longer concerns the calibre alone, but the timepiece as a whole. This new approach represents a major evolution of this independent certification that has enjoyed the longstanding support of Vacheron Constantin and which has just decided to respond more fully than ever before to the legitimate expectations of an ever more informed clientele.
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TECHNICAL DATA
Reference 82131/000P-9764
Malte 100TH Anniversary Edition
Stamped with the Hallmark of Geneva
Caliber 4400 – developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin
Energy Mechanical, manual-winding
Movement diameter 28.60 mm (12’’’1/2)
Movement thickness 2.80 mm
Jewels 21
Number of components 106
Frequency 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Power reserve Approximately 65 hours
Indications Hours, minutes
Case
Platinum 950
36.70 x 47.61 mm
9.10 mm thick
Water resistance Tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approximately 30 meters)
Dial
Silvered sand-blasted
12 black painted Roman numerals
Bracelet Dark blue Mississippiensis alligator, large square scales, hand-stiched, saddle-finish
Clasp
Platinum 950 buckle
Polished half Maltese cross
Limited Edition to 100 pieces for the 100th anniversary of the barrel shape at Vacheron Constantin
“N°X” engraved on caseback
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