Seoul had fallen for the second time, American Presidents could only serve for two terms, the literary world shook with the arrival of Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye and cinematically, The Earth Stood Still; yet across the pond, Vacheron Constantin unveiled a new ‘form’ of watch in 1951- the square. Commanding the attention of consumers and even making fans out of style-savvy Italian collectors who took to calling it, the “cioccolatone”, referencing the chocolate sweet of the area and era.

In an age where timepieces were mainly round, the square and its non-conformist design was unambiguously a symbol of that Italian philosophy of sprezzetura. The Toledo 1951 was to embody that vitality, innovation and creative dynamic that would become emblematic of Vacheron Constantin.

Historiques Toledo 1951

Though not exactly a re-introduction of the historic piece (that took place in 2003 with a complete calendar model of the Toledo), the new and welcome addition to the Historiques collection with its 18K pink gold case and uniquely identifiable  three rounded levels is more than spiritual successor to that famed watch in 1951, it’s a faithful re-interpretation. The distinctive design of the Historiques Toledo 1951 is a study in curves on an angular square case- restrained yet balanced. In other words- aesthetically proportioned.

Like a well cut gemstone, the surfaces polished to a high shine allows light to dance along each and every facet of its curves and levels, creating a mesmerising play of subtle opulence- much required for a gentleman’s watch. That said, the best is yet to come, the hand-guilloche dial with geometrical  motif recalls the design of its predecessor while the delicately beaded and hollowed minute circle on the dial not only reveals the 18-carat gold material but stands testament to an unmistakably “Hallmark of Geneva” finishing of the renowned watchmaker.

Powered by Vacheron Constantin’s self winding Calibre 2460 SC, the 28,000 vph movement with 22-carat gold oscillating weight and 40 hour power reserve follows the tradition of superlative artisanship of the Manufacture with hand cut and finished bridges, screws and plates.  Meeting all requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva which apply to both the calibre and the watch with ease.