First released in 1984, this Vacheron Constantin reference 43032 allows us a glimpse into the inner workings of a perpetual calendar complication. Combining a classic, yellow-gold case and a skeletonised version of the ultra-thin, automatic 1120QP movement, it adds drama and depth to this traditional timepiece.

One year after their initial reference 43031, Vacheron Constantin introduced the reference 43032, distinguished by its skeletonised design. This yellow-gold example retains the classic lines and palette of the original reference, while adding a new dimension with the skeletonised dial.

The tradition of skeletonised watches dates back to 1760, when the French watchmaker André Charles Caron revealed the inner workings of a watch for customers to view by peeling back the watch dial. Since then, skeletonised watches have only begun to pick up in popularity over the last few years, demonstrating both the watchmaker’s skill and a growing public fascination with how watches work.

With its ornate, skeletonised design, this Vacheron Constantin reference 43032 is an intricately made piece that lays the secrets of watchmaking bare. From the dial to the open caseback, the watch creates space for the interplay of light and metal, providing a captivating visual depth. The exposed mechanics display an impressive level of hand-finishing, with vertical brushing, mirror polish and bevelling visible on most of the surfaces. Many of the components, both at the front and back, feature a traditional hand-engraving in a floral pattern, which is subtle and refined.

There are four sub-dials present, as is traditional with the style of perpetual calendars, noting day, month, and date, as well as moonphase. For greater legibility, the subdials are rendered in plain white. The moonphase that can be found on this Ref. 43032 is made from lapis lazuli, a deep blue metamorphic rock that adds a small spark of colour to an otherwise pared-back colour palette

This Vacheron Constantin 43032 is powered by the 1120QP, an illustrious movement introduced in 1983 that built on the high-quality JLC 920 ébauche. With the help of famed Swiss complications specialist, Dubois Dépraz, the perpetual calendar module remains in use today, with the most recent perpetual calendars produced by the brand still running on this movement.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Vacheron Constantin Perpetual Calendar Ref. 43032 will be subject to 20% VAT.

Closer look

This Vacheron Constantin Perpetual Calendar is in very good condition overall, with light signs of wear visible on the case. The original lines of the case have been well retained, while the hallmarks on the left side of the case and case number on the reverse at the 12 o’clock position are clearly defined. The hands have developed a light oxidation. The dial otherwise shows no signs of imperfection, with the reverse side appearing the same, throughout the skeletonised parts and rotor.

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.