Today we will introduce you to the new “Cornes de Vache“, the last reimagining of the Vacheron Constantin model, born in 1955. It is part of the Historiques collection, where iconic models are reinterpreted and revisited in a modern way, combining “rigorous technical sophistication and bold aesthetics”.
The origins
Designed in 1955, in the midst of the post-war economic boom, the “Cornes de Vache” (ref. 6087) is probably the most iconic chronographs of Vacheron Constantin, one of the eldest and most appreciated maisons, always been synonimous of quality and high end watchmaking.
For this reasons, the “Cornes de Vache” has always been very sought-after, not only because of the very limited number of produced pieces, but also because of its elegantly curved lugs, reminiscent of the horns of an ox, from which it takes its name.
Another very important feature, apart from its aesthetics, is that the “Cornes de Vache” was the first waterproof chronograph from Vacheron Constantin!
Back in 2015, on the 60th anniversary of its creation, Vacheron Costantin had re-proposed this model in two very special and precious versions. One in rose gold (ref. R-B059) and one in platinum (ref. P-B058), both very likable and very high end.
Now, in September 2019, the brand adds another piece to its collection, introducing an entry-level, steel model (ref. A-B582) after the Hodinkee’s collaboration (sold out immediatly).
This edition’s peculiarity is in it’s relatively affordable price, considering that we are talking about a a high-end chronograph, which nevertheless maintains high standards of quality and accuracy.
The latest evolution
This new watch comes in identical shape and size to gold and platinum versions.
The case is 38.5 mm in steel, slightly larger than the original model to meet the taste of today’s public, changed over the years.
Inside is housed the 1142 caliber, designed in-house by Vacheron Costantin, manual wind and with 48 hours of power reserve. A special feature of this caliber, also seen in some Harmony series models, is the “Geneva Seal“.
This certification testifies the high standard of quality, bestowed only on the most prestigious Genevan watch brands, among which Vacheron Constantins owns a very respectable place.
Guarantee of origin (mechanical movement designed and assembled in the canton of Geneva), quality, precision and durability are what makes the certificate important, in addiction to several tests on the movement.
The dial is in steel. Starting from the outside we find:
The tachymetric scale
On a 1000 basis, it allows you to quickly read the average speed at which a known distance was covered using as a reading point the second hand of the chronograph
Hours and minutes
The minute scale is in a white circle with red numbers. The hours instead are materialized by indices, except for 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock, which are represented with Roman numerals in white gold.
Counters
Internally, there are two counters: at 9 o’clock for continuous seconds, while at 3 o’clock there’s the chronographic minute counter. The hands related to the movement of the chronograph are easily recognizable by their blue color.
A sapphire case back gives a glimpse of the movement, expertly decorated with Côtes de Genève.
The watch is complemented by a brown calfskin strap and the charging crown, with the iconic Malta cross, placed in the center between the two chronograph buttons.
Entry-Level just on papers…
With this “Cornes de Vache”, Vacheron Constantin is locating in a segment of the market not yet occupied: luxury chronographs, but more accessible and suitable for everyday life.
In fact, steel makes it a versatile, dynamic and youthful watch, suitable for multiple occasions, without ever overshadowing elegance.
Despite the contemporary look and the wider range of customers to which it targets, it remains a high-end model and the price of 42.300€ is a proof.
Translated by Lorenzo Spolaor (@lorenzospolaor)
