This Vacheron Constantin Mercator Ref. 43050/000J is crafted in 18k yellow gold and features a solid gold dial engraved with a map of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Twin retrograde hands — shaped like compass needles — display the time along two arcs: minutes on the right, hours on the left.

The 36mm casehas a stepped bezel and stepped lugs. On the reverse, a sapphire display back reveals the self-winding movement Cal. 1120 with a 21k gold rotor.

This example is in excellent original condition, with a touch of patina we’ve chosen to leave undisturbed, but can be easily wiped away if desired. It comes fitted with a VC leather strap and 18k gold deployant buckle, and is accompanied by its original box, certificate and serial no. hang tag. Circa late 1990s.