Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 vs Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487
| Specification | Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 | Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Vacheron Constantin | Vacheron Constantin |
| Collection | Fiftysix | Fiftysix |
| Reference | 4000E/000R-B438 | 4600E/000A-B487 |
| Category | Moonphase | Dress |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Caliber | Caliber 2460 QCL | Caliber 1326 |
| Power Reserve | 40h | 48h |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph | 28,800 vph |
| Case Diameter | 40.0mm | 40.0mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.6mm | 9.6mm |
| Case Material | 18k Rose Gold | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire box crystal with anti-reflective coating | Sapphire box crystal with anti-reflective coating |
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft | 30m / 98ft |
| Weight | 80g | 72g |
| MSRP | $36,900 | $15,200 |
| Market Price | $32,000 | $13,000 |
In-Depth Comparison
The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 and the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 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 Fiftysix reference was introduced in 2018, while this Fiftysix reference debuted in 2018.
Movement And Mechanics
At the heart of the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 beats the Caliber 2460 QCL caliber offering a 40-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 27 jewels. The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 is powered by the Caliber 1326 with a 48-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 26 jewels. The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 wins on power reserve with a 8-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.
Dimensions And Wearability
The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 features a 40.0mm case at 11.6mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 comes in at 40.0mm and 9.6mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 72g, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 is the lighter of the two.
Materials And Construction
The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 uses a Sapphire box crystal with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 features Sapphire box crystal with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Fixed, polished bezel. On the wrist, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 comes on a Blue alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold folding clasp, while the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 is fitted with Blue alligator leather strap featuring Stainless steel folding clasp.
Water Resistance And Capability
The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 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 Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 lists for $36,900 compared to $15,200 for the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487. The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $21,700 at retail. On the secondary market, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 trades around $32,000 while the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 commands approximately $13,000.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar 4000E/000R-B438 and the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. for dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding 4600E/000A-B487 is more versatile. 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.