The Clarence Cannon Presentation Watch — 1949 Vacheron & Constantin Genève in 18K Gold

Watch Overview

In 1949, as the postwar world entered a new era of progress and diplomacy, Congressman Clarence Cannon—Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee—received this remarkable Vacheron & Constantin Genève wristwatch. A masterpiece that transcends time and stands as a perfect union of political heritage and Swiss craftsmanship.

The watch features the original beige dial, gently aged to a warm patina that only time can create. It is decorated with applied gold indices, matching hands, a black minute track, and a sub-seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position.

Inside beats the Vacheron Constantin Caliber P453/3C — a hand-wound mechanical movement with 17 jewels, adjusted to temperature, operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour, and offering an approximate 46-hour power reserve. The movement exemplifies the brand’s dedication to precision and artistry during the golden age of Swiss horology.

Housed in a 36mm solid 18K gold case with elegant postwar lugs, a smooth fixed bezel, and a snap-on back, it bears the historical engraving: “Clarence Cannon / From the Rooney Group / 1949.”

Fitted with a new brown leather strap, this timepiece has been fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker. It remains in excellent vintage condition, running accurately and ready to be worn—or displayed—as a centerpiece in any distinguished collection.

For collectors, this piece offers something extraordinary — a tangible link between American political history and the heritage of Vacheron & Constantin, one of the oldest and most respected names in Swiss horology.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Vacheron Constantin Genève
• Type: Wristwatch
• Year / Era: 1949 - Vintage
• Gender: Men
• Country of Manufacture: Switzerland

Movement

• Type: Manual-wind
• Caliber: P453/3C
• Jewels: 17
• Some Features:
  • Small-second hand
  • Adjusted to temperatures
• Power Reserve: 46-hours
• Frequency: 18,000vph

Case & Band

• Material: 18K Yellow Gold
• Case Shape: Round
• Bezel: Fixed. Smooth
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Back: Snap
• Crown: Pull-push
• Band: Two-piece strap
• Case Back Markings: Vacheron Constantin - Swiss - 18K 0.750 - 316830 - Jubile

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 36
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 38.5
• Case Lug to Lug: 42.5
• Case Thickness: 8
• Lug Width: 19
• Band Width: 19

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: NO
• Condition: The watch is in very good condition, some signs of wear consistent with use and age, a solid case, smooth bezel, nice dial with an elegant patina.Brand-new strap.
• Extras: This timepiece has been fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker, confirming that it runs accurately. It is ready to wear.

History & Legacy of Vacheron Constantin

“Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin can legitimately claim to be the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation, with more than 260 years of uninterrupted expertise and production.”

Vacheron Constantin, the traditional Swiss luxury watch and clock manufacturer, is a highly regarded watch manufacturer. It has its origins in the circles of the Geneva Cabinotiers, founded in 1755 in Geneva by Jean-Marc Vacheron (an independent watchmaker in Geneva), they have produced watches to the highest standards. Since the beginning, Vacheron Constantin produced high-quality custom-made pocket watches for their customers, among them mostly nobles and royalty.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

We also warmly invite you to visit our physical shop and explore the collection in person.

Contact Us

We appreciate you checking out our listing! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, offers, or just to talk watches — we love what we do and enjoy connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

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