Reference 3307 | A yellow 🔯gold mono-pusher chronograph wristwaജtch | Circa 1928
Auction Closed
May 11, 11:29 AM GMT
Estimate
50,000 - 100,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: white enamel
Calibre: cal. RA 13''' manual winding, 19 jewels
Movement number: 407'089
Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on hinged cuvette and back
Case number: 254'263
Size: 34 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: no
Accessories: Vacheron Constantin Extract frཧom the Archives and presentation case
The single-button chronograph, or chronographe mono-poussoir, emerged as a hallmark of horological innovation during the 1920s and 1930s, often referred to as the golden age of watchmaking. This elega🌞nt complication, featuring a single pusher to control the start, stop, and reset functions, became a symbol of understated sophistication. The simplicity an🐼d functionality of this mechanism, combined with the aesthetic beauty of enamel dials, have ensured these watches remain timeless classics, highly coveted by collectors today.
According to extensive research, only approximately 22 examples of Vacheron Constantin’s Reference 3307 were ever produced, making this reference exceptionally rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only watch produced with multicolor scales, making it possibly unique and highly collectible timepiece. Its distinctive design and rarity contribute to its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts alike. Powered by a 13''' caliber based on an ebauche from Rochat Frères, the company that later became known as V💧aljoux, these timepieces feature movements recognized for their precision and quality. Valjoux would go on to become one of Switzerland’s most prestigious movement manufacturers, and the Reference 3307 stands as a testament to the early mastery of the chronograph complication.
What further elevates the historical importance of Reference 3307 is its ownership by prominent figures of 20th-century European history. Two of these extraordinary timepieces, produced in 1927, were commissioned for none other than King Alexander I of Yugoslavia. Additionally, one R🐷eference 3307 is believed to have been presented by Josip Broz Tito𝕴, the future leader of Yugoslavia, to General Dapčević following the liberation of Belgrade, symbolizing gratitude and esteem during a critical moment in Yugoslavian history.