Superb Vacheron Constantin Lapis Lazuli "Tank" in White Gold, Extra-Thin Caliber 1003, circa 1975

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest continuously operating watch manufacturer in the world. We are pleased to present this superb rectangular watch from the 1970s, which combines aesthetic refinement with outstanding mechanical qualities.
It is powered by the legendary caliber 1003, introduced in 1955 for the manufacture's bicentenary and still holding the record for the thinnest mechanical wristwatch movement ever produced, at just 1.64 mm thick. Bearing the Geneva Seal and heat- and cold-adjusted in five positions, this hand-wound movement is considered one of the finest ever made.
The lapis lazuli dial, of a deep and vibrant blue, lends each piece a unique character, while the rectangular 18-carat white gold case, with its understated and timeless elegance, was crafted in France, as evidenced by the eagle's head hallmark and the maker's mark of Paul Frank's workshops, in the outskirts of Paris. Just serviced, this rare timepiece is ideal for collectors seeking an exceptional dress watch that combines extreme thinness, discreet sophistication, and a dazzling dial.

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world's oldest continuously operating watch manufacturer. Throughout its history, the Geneva-based company has distinguished itself through its pursuit of mechanical excellence and aesthetic refinement – two qualities perfectly embodied by this rectangular watch from the 1970s.

At the heart of this timepiece beats the legendary Calibre 1003, whose development began in 1952 in the historic workshops of L'Île, on the Rhône River, and which was presented in 1955 to mark the manufacture's bicentenary. At just 1.64 mm thick and 21 mm in diameter, this manual-winding movement still holds the record for the thinnest mechanical wristwatch movement ever produced! A feat that, 70 years later, remains unmatched. Many collectors also consider it one of the most beautiful hand-wound movements ever made. It is so light that it requires no shock protection and beats at a rate of 18,000 vibrations per hour. Bearing the prestigious Geneva Seal and adjusted to heat, cold, and five different positions, it represents the pinnacle of ultra-thin watchmaking.

The dial of this timepiece is carved from a thin slice of lapis lazuli in a deep, vibrant blue. In the 1960s and 1970s, leading watchmakers – perhaps most notoriously Piaget, but also Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Rolex, for instance – explored the art of the hardstone dial, resulting in unique creations where each piece differs subtly from the next due to the natural variations in the material. These dials, cut to less than a millimeter thick, are extremely fragile and require exceptional craftsmanship. The “Vacheron & Constantin Genève” signature is applied in silvery-white paint, and the dial is topped with white gold dauphine hands.

The rectangular 18-carat white gold case, measuring approximately 23 x 30 mm and only 4.5 mm thick, has a simple and elegant shape, very similar to Cartier's Tank models. It was made in France at the request of Vacheron & Constantin, as evidenced by the presence of the French "eagle's head" hallmark guaranteeing 750/1000 gold, as well as the so-called "PGF" maker's mark within a lozenge, located inside the case back, corresponding to the Paul Frank workshops near Paris. The case back bears the serial number 521692 PP, repeated inside the case back. The white gold pin buckle, also stamped with the eagle's head and the Paul Frank hallmark, is original.

The caliber 1003 has undergone a complete overhaul by an experienced watchmaker and operates within the strictest tolerances.

An exceptional watch combining the world's thinnest manual movement, a striking blue lapis lazuli dial, and the understated elegance of a white gold case – for collectors seeking a dress watch that is as rare as it is refined.

This Vacheron & Constantin "Tank" shaped watch is preserved in superb overall condition.
The 18-carat white gold case retains its original proportions and finishes, with clear demarcations between the mate/brushed/satin-finish and bright/mirror-polished surfaces.
All the engravings on the case back are in perfect condition, deep and clear.
The sublime lapis lazuli dial is remarkably well preserved. The silvery-white logo is impeccable.
The mechanical hand-wound movement, caliber Vacheron Constantin 1003 – the thinnest in the world! – has been completely overhauled by one of our experienced watchmakers and operates within the strictest tolerances.
The custom-made Amplitude° strap in matte gold-colored alligator leather is new, and the original 18-carat white gold pin buckle is in perfect condition.
An ideal example.

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