Vacheron & Constantin Ref. 4072 First Series Chronograph with Sector Dial

The Vacheron & Constantin Reference 4072 is one of the longest-lived chronograph references in the manufacture's history, produced from 1938 through the 1970s across multiple configurations and case materials. This example is not simply an early 4072: it belongs to the very first production batch, identifiable by the presence of Caliber 295, a movement believed to have been fitted to no more than the first 27 pieces ever produced under this reference. What makes it even more exceptional is the dial: rather than the applied indices and standard layout that would define later 4072 production, this first-series example carries a three-tone sector dial with raised enamel details, a configuration that was never repeated and that places this watch in a category entirely its own.

Key Specifications

Condition Report

Case: Overall very good condition with minor signs of wear throughout. The lugs maintain strong proportions and sharp edges, with a visible hallmark on the side of the case. The inside of the caseback is pristine, with vivid hallmarks and engravings fully legible.

Dial: Very good condition. The three-tone sector layout is intact and the raised enamel details are thick and well-preserved, with no losses or restorations.

Movement: Preserved in pristine condition, almost untouched. Runs well and all chronograph functions operate correctly.

Collector's Note

The Caliber 295, fitted exclusively to the earliest examples of the 4072, is based on the Valjoux 22 but finished and signed by Vacheron & Constantin to the manufacture's own standards. Its presence on this watch, combined with the sector dial that was abandoned in favour of a more conventional layout for subsequent production, makes this one of the most historically significant 4072s that can be found. The Antoine Gerlach casemaker hallmark (Geneva Key No. 4) further confirms the pedigree of the case construction: Gerlach was among the most respected independent casemakers in Geneva during the pre-war era, responsible for some of the most architecturally ambitious cases produced for the great Genevan manufactures. This is a watch for the specialist collector who understands that the first example of anything is always the most important.

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