The story behind this Vacheron Constantin Extra-Plate
For over two centuries, the Geneva-based maison has cultivated the art of understated elegance. This Vacheron Constantin, reference 6899, exemplifies a purist vision of watchmaking from the 1970s. Designed to slip beneath a shirt cuff, it embodies a quest for absolute discretion. The development of ultra-thin calibres represents a major technical challenge for the industry. Unveiled in 1955 to mark the manufacture’s 200th anniversary, the movement that powers it held the world record for thinness for many years. Its thickness of 1.64 mm has enabled the craftsmen to create a slim and balanced profile.
Case, movement and strap of this Extra-Plate
The 31.5 mm diameter case is crafted from 18-carat yellow gold. Its round shape is characterised by teardrop-shaped lugs welded directly to the polished middle. The absence of a prominent bezel leaves plenty of room for a champagne-coloured dial with a smooth, matt finish. The dial features a simple time display with painted Roman numerals and a black railway-track minute track. Two slender, blackened baton hands sweep across the dial without any luminescent material. The solid clipped case back protects the calibre 1003/1, a hand-wound mechanical movement bearing the Geneva Seal. It beats at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour and offers approximately 31 hours of power reserve. The watch is fitted with a black textured leather strap fastened with a single gold pin buckle.
Why this Vacheron Constantin watch
Acquiring a timepiece from this period offers direct access to traditional haute horlogerie. Connoisseurs of fine mechanical timepieces seek out the Calibre 1003 for its historical significance and architectural design. The configuration with teardrop-shaped lugs adds a subtle aesthetic nuance compared to strict, classic cases. The ritual of daily manual winding creates a direct bond between the timepiece and its wearer. On the second-hand market, ultra-thin gold models retain a steady appeal for collectors seeking a discreet dress watch.
Contents and condition
This timepiece is supplied in a black lacquered ‘The Swiss Collector’ presentation box. The back of the solid gold case features a personalised engraving of the letters R S. The watch shows signs of its history, with micro-scratches visible on the polished surfaces and normal wear and tear typical of a soft metal such as yellow gold. This preservation of its original vintage condition is particularly prized on the market as it respects the integrity of the piece. Polishing is, however, available on request to restore the metal’s lustre. The dial remains clearly legible and shows no major signs of deterioration.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. The watch comes with a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand specialist, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international shipping.
* Condition: Visible signs of wear. Appearance consistent with the item’s history and age. Polishing available on request.
