THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: VACHERON CONSTANTIN
MODEL: 43080
YEAR: 2007
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 35.5mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K WHITE GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: 18K WHITE GOLD
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
The Malte Squelette stands as a sort of technological show-off. Anchored by the renowned Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1120, a movement distinguished for its history and shared legacy with other Swiss watchmaking giants. Developed by Jaeger-LeCoultre and embraced by Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, this movement has the unique distinction of being the only one ever used by the trifecta of Swiss maestros, yet, intriguingly, never by Jaeger-LeCoultre itself.
This watch marvels not just for its legacy, but for its engineering finesse. At a mere 2.45mm thickness, the movement is both robust and incredibly thin, allowing Vacheron Constantin to design a self-winding watch that often leaves enthusiasts pleasantly surprised. The Malte Squelette variant, the 1120/1, boasts a unique adjustment lever on the balance assembly, easily spotted alongside the prestigious Seal of Geneva stamp. The 1120/2120's distinct rotor mechanism, built on a beryllium rail and supported by ruby wheels, gives it an unmistakable, enchanting spin sound, while ensuring minimal movement thickness.
The skeletonisation work itself is a testament to artistry and precision. With its expertly beveled bridge edges and chased surfaces, every beam of light is captured and reflected, lending the watch a kind of outward glow. The thinner, lace-like transparency of the 1120-based skeleton mesmerises, especially when illuminated. Yet, the heart of the brand remains the iconic Maltese cross, which graces the design from the rotor to the lugs, and even in the elegant curvature of the strap's clasp.
The watch is paired with a Vacheron Constantin 18k white gold milanese bracelet - an exceedingly rare specification that features a butterfly clasp. This really separates the piece from most. The leather is great, however this bracelet ups the uniqueness and desirability massively.