Vacheron Constantin 1954 Cioccolatone Toledo Ref:4822 Rare

The Vacheron Constantin Reference 4822, fondly dubbed the "Cioccolatone" by Italian collectors for its resemblance to a chocolate square, is a testament to the brand's creativity and craftsmanship. Vacheron Constantin became synonymous with the iconic Cioccolatone case, a unique design introduced in the early 1950s that left a lasting mark on its legacy.

Defined by its generously proportioned, cushion-shaped square case, the Cioccolatone quickly became a hallmark of the Geneva-based brand, inspiring an entire family of remarkable watches. Among the most significant references within this lineage were Ref. 4811 and Ref. 4822.

These watches represented a bold departure for Vacheron Constantin, embodying post-war design optimism with their “large, organic square-shaped” cases and smooth, rounded corners. Italian watch enthusiasts and media embraced the innovative design, cementing the Cioccolatone’s status as a coveted collector’s piece.

Today, vintage Vacheron Cioccolatones are highly sought after as emblematic mid-century designs, cherished for their distinctive aesthetics and creative heritage. Vacheron Constantin itself honored this legacy by reintroducing the Cioccolatone design in the early 2000s as part of its Les Historiques collection, celebrating the original’s signature square case while adding a refined, modern touch.

This particular 1954 example, featuring the Caliber 454, comes with an original box, buckle, and an abstract from the archive, although it is paired with an aftermarket strap. Despite its bold, chunky case, the watch maintains a relatively slim profile, and the dial showcases a refined steel grain pattern.

Condition Report:
The watch is in overall good condition, especially considering its age. The case has been lightly polished and displays some signs of wear. The dial remains in great condition, though some indices are slightly misaligned.