Vacheron Constantin Automatic Extra-Flat “Patrimony/Calatrava” Ref. 7409 in Yellow Gold, circa 1970 – N.O.S.

Superb Vacheron Constantin reference 7409, often referred to as a “Patrimony” or “Calatrava”, in 18-carat yellow gold, presented in the late 1960s as "the thinnest automatic watch in the world" in the official catalogs of the manufacturer. This prestigious piece is powered by the legendary caliber K1120, based on the Jaeger-LeCoultre 920, considered one of the most beautiful ultra-thin automatic movements ever created with its thickness of only 2.45 mm and its central rotor in 21-carat gold.
The 34 mm yellow gold case is remarkably well preserved, with its original details and surfaces perfectly preserved – having never been polished. The silver-ivory dial is in immaculate condition, with no signs of ageing, and its applied gold baton markers subtly catching the light.
The presence of the original pin buckle signed A.W. (A. Wenger), supplier to the most prestigious Swiss manufacturers, perfectly completes the ensemble. A documented piece in perfect condition, a testament to the technical apogee of Vacheron Constantin, when the manufacturer could legitimately claim to have created the thinnest automatic watch in the world.

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world's oldest continuously operating watch manufacturer. This 18-carat yellow gold reference 7409 represents one of the Geneva-based manufacturer's technical achievements, presented in the late 1960s as "the world's thinnest automatic watch," as read the official catalogs of the time.

The K1120 caliber that powers it is a marvel of micromechanics. Based on the legendary Jaeger-LeCoultre 920, this ultra-thin automatic movement, just 2.45 mm thick, remains one of the thinnest automatic calibers ever created. Developed in the late 1960s by Jaeger-LeCoultre, it was used exclusively by the most prestigious manufacturers: Vacheron Constantin (caliber 1120), Audemars Piguet (caliber 2121), and Patek Philippe (caliber 28-255 for the first Nautilus models). The 21-carat gold central rotor, specifically mentioned in period documentation, contributes to winding efficiency while maintaining the exceptional finesse of the entire movement.

Reference 7409 perfectly illustrates Vacheron Constantin's philosophy during this golden age of mechanical watchmaking, before the advent of quartz. Featured in catalogs for official retailers, it represented the pinnacle of discreet masculine elegance, intended for a cultured clientele who favored technical perfection over ostentation. The 34 mm diameter case, the quintessential classic dimension for dress watches, allows the ultra-thin movement to express itself fully with a total thickness of only approximately 7 mm.

The example we are offering is in an exceptional state of preservation. The 18-carat yellow gold case retains its original details and surfaces, alternating between mirror-polished and brushed/satin-finished areas – and has never been polished. This preservation is all the more remarkable given that the overwhelming majority of gold watches from this period have undergone successive polishings that have altered their original design. The liveliness of the edges and the depth of the engravings on the caseback attest to the perfect integrity of the case.

The remarkably pure opaline silver dial features an immaculate ivory surface without the slightest trace of aging. The applied baton hour markers, finely faceted to capture the light, create a subtle play of reflections that animate the dial depending on the viewing angle. The signature “Vacheron & Constantin Genève” with the characteristic ampersand and the word “AUTOMATIC” in capital letters correspond exactly to the presentation in the period catalog, confirming the absolute authenticity of the watch.

The original A.W. (A. Wenger) signed pin buckle is a particularly sought-after element. A. Wenger was one of the official suppliers of buckles to the greatest Swiss manufacturers—those collectively known as the “Holy Trinity”: Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron & Constantin—and the presence of this original buckle, hallmarked “0.750 DÉPOSÉ SWISS,” confirms not only the fineness of the gold but also the complete integrity of the watch as delivered by Vacheron Constantin over fifty years ago.

Half a century after its release, our example of the reference 7409 remains remarkable for its thinness, elegance, and, above all, its state of preservation. The ultra-thin caliber 1120, one of the most celebrated automatic movements ever produced, still powers some of Vacheron Constantin's most prestigious watches to this day. Here is a benchmark example for the discerning collector, as well as a perfect dress watch for special occasions.

This Vacheron Constantin, often referred to as a “Patrimony” or “Calatrava”, is superbly preserved.
Its 18-carat yellow gold case has never been polished since this watch was born over 50 years ago. It retains its original angles, edges, and finishes, with an extremely clear alternation between brushed/satin-finished matte and mirror-polished surfaces. The engravings on the caseback are deep.
The silver/ivory dial is perfect, with no missing spots, scratches, or discolorations.
The self-winding mechanical movement, the extra-thin Vacheron Constantin (K)1120 caliber based on the Jaeger-LeCoultre 920, has undergone a complete overhaul by a watchmaker specializing in vintage movements.
The original 18-carat yellow gold Wenger-signed pin buckle is superbly preserved.
A museum-quality example.

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