A Vacheron Constantin unique Grande Complication was recently sold for $1.8 million by Christie’s New York. James Ward Packard, the founder of Packard Motor Car Company, previously owned the exclusive timepiece.
A significant watch collector himself, Packard commissioned Vacheron Constantin to create the unique timepiece in 1918. The watch features chronograph, minute repeater, Grande and Petite Sonnerie including a chiming of the 71/2 minutes, a chiseled case in 20k gold and a glass cover made of rock crystal. The caseback has Packard’s emblem engraved and enameled on it and the inner case back wording translates as “Made for James Ward Packard, Warren, Ohio, 1918 by Vacheron Constantin.”
After a ferocious battle at auction, the Vacheron Constantin museum came out victorious with a bid of $1.8 million. This is certainly good news for the high-end horology loving public who now have a good chance of viewing the piece at the museum.
Source and photos: Hodinkee
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September 1, 2011U.S. Previews Unique Timepieces for Only Watch
