A Vacheron Constantin solid eighteen carat gold mechanical 'Calatrava' style center seconds gentleman's dress watch.  This is an exceptional quality and rare dress watch from one of the world's finest watch makers.  The heavy gauge, screw down, case back still has the stainless steel protective cover in tact, and is an example of one of Vacheron's early attempts at a waterproof case.  It is fully stamped and marked and has serial number 309XXX.  The watch is powered by the mechanical calibre N454 movement.  That although is not considered a Chronometer grade movement, it is based on the ebauche Jaeger LeCoultre 449 movement that powered the  chronometer-grade 478.  The movement is numbered 474XXX.  The watch case is made in the less commonly found pink gold, and is possibly lightly polished, but is presented in excellent condition.  The Swiss hallmark on the inside back of the lug is still deep and clear.  The dial is a glossy, untouched original example with applied, large and handsome eighteen carat pink gold Roman numerals separated  by large domed markers.  The dial has some slight aging to it with very small blisters, evident upon inspection with a loop.  Not noticeable  or detracting to the naked eye.   The watch dates to the end of the 1940's, early 1950's and is a very easy watch to wear.  The size is not small, and can easily be dressed up or down.