Vacheron Constantin Reference 4659 – Elegance with Iconic Crab Lugs (1954–1956)

Few details define a vintage dress watch as beautifully as a set of well-executed crab lugs, and the Vacheron Constantin Ref. 4659 is one of the finest examples from the golden era of Swiss watchmaking.

Produced in the mid-1950s, this elegant timepiece features a beautifully proportioned 34 mm 18k yellow gold case by renowned casemaker Antoine Gerlach SA. The sculptural lugs give the watch a distinctive character, while maintaining the refinement expected from one of Geneva's most prestigious maisons.

The true highlight is the untouched black dial — a configuration that is significantly rarer than its silver counterparts. Combined with the warm yellow gold case, applied indexes, gold hands, and sub-second display, the result is a striking yet highly sophisticated aesthetic that perfectly captures mid-century elegance.

Inside beats the respected Vacheron Constantin Cal. P453/3B, a manually wound movement known for its reliability, fine finishing, and graceful architecture. It represents an era when Vacheron Constantin focused on creating some of the finest dress watches in the world.

Preserved in excellent overall condition, this Ref. 4659 is a wonderful example of what makes vintage Vacheron Constantin so special: timeless proportions, exceptional craftsmanship, and subtle details that reveal themselves over time.

A rare black dial Vacheron Constantin with iconic crab lugs — understated, elegant, and increasingly difficult to find today.

- wrist size in our picture is 18cm circumference -

DIAL:

• original never touched black dial in great condition
• original hands & crown
  

STRAP & BUCKLE:

• black GOLDAMMER KARDINAL Lizard Embossed Leather Watch Strap fitting up to 20 cm wrist size / 2 mm thick
• yellow gold plated GOLDAMMER buckle

CASE:

• excellent overall condition, showing minor traces of wear
• 3- body 18k yellow gold case with snap-on case back from casemaker Antoine Gerlach SA
• 34 mm (without crown) / 42 mm (lug-to-lug) / 17 mm (between lugs) / 9 mm thick
• reference: 4659
• year: 1954-1956
• total weight: 44 g

MOVEMENT:

• Vacheron Constantin Cal. P453/3B - manual wind
• 17 jewels, 18000 A/h, 46 hours power reserve
• professionally serviced 06/2026
• +3 sec/d / 350°

BOX & PAPERS:

• GOLDAMMER certificate of authenticity & service documentation card
• GOLDAMMER box

GOLDAMMER REFERENCE: #1578