Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 vs Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516

SpecificationVacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516
BrandVacheron ConstantinVacheron Constantin
CollectionPatrimonyPatrimony
Reference4010U/000R-B3294000U/000R-B516
CategoryMoonphaseDress
Movement TypeAutomaticAutomatic
CaliberCaliber 2460 R31LCaliber 2460 R31R7
Power Reserve40h40h
Frequency28,800 vph28,800 vph
Case Diameter42.5mm42.5mm
Case Thickness10.9mm10.5mm
Case Material18k Rose Gold18k Rose Gold
CrystalSapphire with anti-reflective coatingSapphire with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance30m / 98ft30m / 98ft
Weight92g95g
MSRP$43,000$41,500
Market Price$37,000$36,000

In-Depth Comparison

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Vacheron Constantin and Vacheron Constantin is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Patrimony reference was introduced in 2017, while this Patrimony reference debuted in 2015. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 beats the Caliber 2460 R31L caliber offering a 40-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 27 jewels. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is powered by the Caliber 2460 R31R7 with a 40-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 27 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 features a 42.5mm case at 10.9mm thick with a 50.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 comes in at 42.5mm and 10.5mm thick with 50.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18k Rose Gold. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 92g, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, polished bezel. On the wrist, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 comes on a Blue alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold folding clasp, while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is fitted with Dark brown alligator leather strap featuring 18k rose gold folding clasp.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 lists for $43,000 compared to $41,500 for the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $1,500 at retail. On the secondary market, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 trades around $37,000 while the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 commands approximately $36,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase and Retrograde Date 4010U/000R-B329 and the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date 4000U/000R-B516 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.