The unusually shaped lugs alone got our attention but here are 2 other details that had us sold on the latest version of Historique Cornes de vache 1955

Revival of a classic in steel

Tatler Asia
Above A steel case with cow horn lugs

The watch is a faithful replication of Vacheron Constantin’s first waterproof chronograph in 1955 including the striking lugs in the shape of a cow’s horn characterised by gently curved slopes. After all these years, including recent reissues in platinum and 18k pink gold, it finally gets a material that matches its sportiness – steel case in a diameter of 38.5mm and resistance against water seepage up to 30m.

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Above The original reference 6087 from 1955

Dial layout is essentially the same as the original reference 6087 complete with a tachymeter scale measuring the average speed over a distance. The applied hour markers and hands are in 18k white gold while the chronograph and 30-min chronograph hands, for clearer differentiation, are in blued steel.

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A custom leather strap

The Swiss maison collaborates with Milan-based leather crafts specialist Serapian to create the leather strap. Serapian is known for its Mosaico weaved leather but for its first partnership with a watch company, it has crafted a calfskin strap with a retro patina and a second loop in the attaco shape of its handbag handles.

A heartbeat that won't quit

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Above The column wheel features a screw with Maltese cross

What goes on within is just as visually fascinating. Beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with 48 hours of power reserve, the manual 1142 calibre is visible on the caseback framed by a 10-sided bezel. High-end finishing from hand decorations to circular graining is common in any Vacheron Constantin’s movements but what makes this chronograph stands out is the Maltese cross deliberately crafted into the column wheel.

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Credits

Images  

Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin

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