From as early as 1820, Vacheron Constantin was known as one of the first horological manufactures to have employed the use of platinum in the art of watchmaking. So why is platinum so desirable, you may ask? While 18-carat gold is only 75% precious metal, pure platinum is approximately 95%. It is also approximately 30 times rarer than gold and is only found in a small number of deposits around the globe. Its density and heft contributes to its superiority in terms of resistance in comparison to many other precious metals that are available. This quality alone makes platinum an extremely exclusive and appropriate material for a watch that is meant to last for a lifetime.
The watch we are thrilled to be able to offer here today is a prime example of such technical pedigree—the Vacheron Constantin Malte Chronograph Excellence Platine 47120. The 47120 was first introduced in 2006 as part of the Excellence Platine collection, where all platinum watches under this specific collection banner were presented as a limited edition, featured a sandblasted platinum dial that discreetly bears the inscription “PT950”, and were fitted with a platinum 950 case along with matching clasps/buckles.
Following the above, the 47120 featured here today comes from an exclusive collection limited to just 75 pieces worldwide. Each example is powered by an impeccably finished, 21-jewel, manually wound Cal. 1141, based of the legendary Lemania 2320. Fully visible through the sapphire caseback, this ebauche was used by all the top houses for decades, including Audemars Piguet, Breguet and Patek Philippe.
Needless to say, the attention to detail and craftsmanship on its platinum dial is truly exceptional. It showcases a set of white gold hands and individually applied numeral batons. Additional features include a running seconds sub-dial at 9:00, a 30-minute counter at 3:00, a centrally mounted blued-steel chronograph seconds hand, a discreet “PT950” hallmark at 4:30, and a telemeter scale along the dial’s periphery. The Cal. 1141 also offers a 48-hour power reserve on a full wind and delivers a satisfying tactile experience through its concave chronograph pushers.
When it comes to case proportions and overall aesthetics, not many watches do it quite like the 47120. One particularly interesting detail lies in the case band at the mid-section. When viewed from the side, the prominent Maltese-style lugs are visibly welded onto the case—a process that is entirely hand-finished to eliminate any trace of soldering. This method is both traditional and costly, but in the case of the 47120, the results speak for themselves. It creates a sharp, defined cleft and break between the case band and the flanks of the lugs—a subtle yet striking detail that will appeal to those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. The lugs themselves are bold and robust, yet thoughtfully sculpted to echo Vacheron Constantin’s signature Maltese cross. As they extend outward from the case, they’re paired with a subdued fluted shoulder that helps break up the perceived visual bulk. Altogether, this design lends the watch a distinctly expressive character and an impressive sense of presence on the wrist.
In terms of wearability, the 47120 is presented in a fairly sizable 41.5mm × 11mm platinum case, yet it remains surprisingly comfortable on the wrist. The subtly stepped bezel not only adds visual interest but also allows the watch to slip more easily beneath a cuff—an understated yet practical detail. For those who appreciate the reassuring heft of a platinum case, like myself, the 47120 offers a deeply satisfying wrist presence. It is paired with a high-quality blue alligator strap, secured by a matching platinum Maltese cross buckle that echoes the watch’s signature design language.
Overall, the 47120 is as good as it gets. It checks all the right boxes, from rarity and technical sophistication to brand heritage and aesthetics. As a contemporary dressy chronograph, it strikes a beautiful balance between elegance and mechanical substance—an exceptional timepiece by every measure and a perfect modern addition to any discerning collector’s watch box.
