In the early 1940s, during a period of growing interest in complicated wristwatches, Vacheron Constantin responded by introducing reference 4240 in 1942, featuring an elegant case and a triple calendar function. This model was fundamental for the Maison, successfully combining aesthetic refinement with a practical complication, quickly becoming a benchmark of the period’s production.

In 1948, the reference was updated and enriched with the addition of moon phases, giving rise to the 4240L, as seen in this lot. This development marked an important step for Vacheron Constantin, as it represented the Maison’s entry into the series production of wristwatches with full calendar and lunar indication—a complication that had been experimented with previously but never produced on this scale.

The 4240L also anticipated a taste and trend that other brands would follow in the 1950s, when the post-war market began demanding watches that were both sophisticated and suitable for everyday wear.

Our example stands out for a rare configuration: a pink gold case paired with a salmon dial, a combination highly sought after today for its charm and its ability to enhance the watch’s design.

From a collector’s perspective, the 4240L is considered one of Vacheron Constantin’s vintage icons. Recent auction results confirm the growing interest in these models, recognized not only for their historical significance but also for an aesthetic that remains a reference point within the brand’s production.

A fascinating, rare, and technically significant timepiece, the 4240L represents one of the most elegant chapters in Vacheron Constantin’s history and an exceptional opportunity for any collection dedicated to 20th-century haute horology.