Toledo 1951

In 1951, Vacheron Constantin presented the new ‘form’ watch featuring the remarkable asset of an astonishing square case. It was an immediate hit, winning over a broad audience.

The very fact that this watch with its non-conformist design elicited such enthusiasm lay in its ability to take the pulse of an effervescent period. Throughout a decade characterised by outstanding vitality and optimism, designers in all fields were eagerly exploring new avenues, including occasionally confronting each other so as to boost creative momentum.

A keen sense of its duty to pass on traditions and to share its passion inspired the Historiques collection, which is intended to reinterpret emblematic models. This approach provides an opportunity to highlight Vacheron Constantin’s distinctive aesthetic design codes and choices. The Historiques collection thus revives a wide range of very different, innovative and successful designs – within which the Toledo 1951 watch finds a natural place.

In 2003, the Toledo model had already been revisited and introduced with a complete calendar. This year, the new Toledo 1951 has opted for closer similarities with the original 1951 model through a form watch with a three-hand display that preserves the warm signature mood of this timepiece imbued with a touch of Latin charm.


The design of the new Toledo 1951 stems from an advanced study of curves and the square shape – along with the art of associating them in the most restrained and balanced possible way.

The 18-carat pink gold case features three rounded sides composing the signature of this timepiece. These three levels give the case a consistently dynamic appearance that is further accentuated by the uniform polishing on the sides and the round angles. Like a facetted cut diamond, the case catches the light that bounces off its curves and levels. Shadowy and luminous zones enliven this timepiece pervaded by a resolutely vivacious aesthetic. The sapphire crystal is also slightly curved to follow the same aesthetic impetus.

The dial displays a hand-guilloché centre. It features a geometrical motif reinterpreting that of the original and designed to accentuate the shape of the case. The delicately beaded and hollowed minute circle reveals the 18-carat gold dial. Its square form keeps the main focus on the shape of the case.


The dimensions of the case – 36.4 mm x 43 mm and 8.9 mm thick – endow this timepiece with an undeniable presence, while ensuring it is not too weighty and proves particularly pleasant to wear.
The solid case-back provides scope for personalising this model supplied with an alligator leather strap secured by a half Maltese Cross-shaped pin buckle.