1950s LeCoultre ‘Cornes de Vache’ Chronograph
Why This Watch Matters
This is the type of chronograph that could only be born in the hey-day of mechanical watchmaking – the 1950s. It features a solid gold case with epic "Cornes de Vache" lugs and an almost flawless dial. This one comes from LeCoultre, but if it had a different name on the dial, this would be a six figure watch (and in fact it was this past November).
The Full Story
A simple look at this watch tells you everything. The lugs are gorgeous and incredibly uncommon – you may recognize them from Vacheron Constantin’s use of exactly the same case for the very rare and desirable reference 6087, dating to the 1950s. This early reference was celebrated this year with the Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955, (which we reviewed here). Okay, so this may be only a LeCoultre, but it still features the very same screw-back case in yellow gold. Topping it all off? It is powered by the famous lateral clutch, column-wheel controlled Valjoux 72, an icon in itself. A historical note: LeCoultre was the name used by Jaeger-LeCoultre for watches sold into the US market, meaning that this watch is indeed of American descent. This is an opportunity to own a chronograph wristwatch in 18K gold made by one of the great maisons of Switzerland, in enviably fresh condition, with tremendous and instantly striking style. Vintage watches in this condition are becoming increasingly difficult to locate; this is certainly one of the most impressive vintage chronograph wristwatches we have seen in some time, with exactly the sort of quality (inside and out) you’d expect from an investment-grade timepiece.
The Fine Print
Maker: LeCoultre
Model: Cornes de Vache Chronograph
Reference: NA
Year: Mid 1950s
Case No: 210XXX
Material: 18k Yellow Gold
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 12mm thick
Sapphire Crystal: No
Lume: No
Caliber: Manual Winding Valjoux 72
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Textured Calfskin Strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No
What we Love and What You Should Know
This rare and beautiful chronograph is in outstanding condition with all original parts exceptionally well-preserved. The solid 18K yellow gold case is in remarkable shape, with deep original hallmarks visible. The lugs are truly flawless, and so is the dial. Please note there is slight oxidation on the border of the minute hand visible under a 10x loupe.
Product Information
Product Information
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Description
Why This Watch Matters
This is the type of chronograph that could only be born in the hey-day of mechanical watchmaking – the 1950s. It features a solid gold case with epic "Cornes de Vache" lugs and an almost flawless dial. This one comes from LeCoultre, but if it had a different name on the dial, this would be a six figure watch (and in fact it was this past November).
The Full Story
A simple look at this watch tells you everything. The lugs are gorgeous and incredibly uncommon – you may recognize them from Vacheron Constantin’s use of exactly the same case for the very rare and desirable reference 6087, dating to the 1950s. This early reference was celebrated this year with the Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955, (which we reviewed here). Okay, so this may be only a LeCoultre, but it still features the very same screw-back case in yellow gold. Topping it all off? It is powered by the famous lateral clutch, column-wheel controlled Valjoux 72, an icon in itself. A historical note: LeCoultre was the name used by Jaeger-LeCoultre for watches sold into the US market, meaning that this watch is indeed of American descent. This is an opportunity to own a chronograph wristwatch in 18K gold made by one of the great maisons of Switzerland, in enviably fresh condition, with tremendous and instantly striking style. Vintage watches in this condition are becoming increasingly difficult to locate; this is certainly one of the most impressive vintage chronograph wristwatches we have seen in some time, with exactly the sort of quality (inside and out) you’d expect from an investment-grade timepiece.
The Fine Print
Maker: LeCoultre
Model: Cornes de Vache Chronograph
Reference: NA
Year: Mid 1950s
Case No: 210XXX
Material: 18k Yellow Gold
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 12mm thick
Sapphire Crystal: No
Lume: No
Caliber: Manual Winding Valjoux 72
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Textured Calfskin Strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No
What we Love and What You Should Know
This rare and beautiful chronograph is in outstanding condition with all original parts exceptionally well-preserved. The solid 18K yellow gold case is in remarkable shape, with deep original hallmarks visible. The lugs are truly flawless, and so is the dial. Please note there is slight oxidation on the border of the minute hand visible under a 10x loupe.
