By Hallie Engel
The Toledo 1951 is the latest addition to Vacheron Constantin’s Historiques, a line created to revive innovative and successful designs.
In 2003, the Toledo model had already been revisited and introduced with a complete calendar. This year, the new Toledo 1951 has opted for closer similarities with the original model through a form watch with a three-hand display, preserving the watch’s signature mood while lending it a touch of Latin charm.
The design of the new Toledo 1951 stems from an advanced study of curves and the square shape, along with the art of associating them in the most restrained and balanced possible way. The 18-carat pink gold case features three rounded sides, lending it a dynamic appearance further accentuated by the uniform polishing on the sides and the round angles. The sapphire crystal is also slightly curved to follow the same aesthetic impetus.
In keeping with the fine tradition of artistic crafts cultivated by Vacheron Constantin, the dial displays a hand-guilloché centre. It features a geometrical motif reinterpreting that of the original, whilst the delicately beaded and hollowed minute circle discreetly reveals the 18-carat gold dial.
Taut lines and optical effects testify to the infinite care lavished on the design of this dial with its opaline silver-toned finishes. The dimensions of the case, which is 36.4mm x 43mm and 8.9mm thick, ensure it is not too heavy and proves pleasant to wear.
The solid case-back provides scope for personalisation, whilst the alligator leather strap is secured by a half Maltese Cross-shaped pin buckle. The watch is powered by the Calibre 2460 SC, developed and crafted in-house by Vacheron Constantin.
Oscillating at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour, this self-winding calibre equipped with a 22-carat gold oscillating weight ensures an approximately 40-hour power reserve. The bridges are manually cut out and bevelled, the sides are hand-drawn with file strokes and each screw is meticulously polished.
