What is a fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillon?

A fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillon is a replica watch that copies the design of a Vacheron Constantin tourbillon. Genuine Vacheron Constantin tourbillons include the Traditionnelle Tourbillon and the Malte Tourbillon. Prices for genuine models start at $200,000. Fake versions sell for $300 to $2,000.

How to identify a fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillon

  • Check the tourbillon cage. A tourbillon rotates once per minute. A fake may have a cage that does not rotate.
  • Look at the movement finish. Vacheron Constantin movements have Geneva stripes, beveled bridges, and polished screws. Fakes have rough edges and printed patterns.
  • Check the caseback. Genuine models have sapphire crystal and engraved hallmarks. Fakes may have mineral glass and laser etching.
  • Weigh the watch. A gold Vacheron Constantin weighs 80 to 120 grams. A fake made of steel or brass weighs 60 to 90 grams.

Tourbillon movements in fake watches

Some fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillons contain a real tourbillon movement. These movements come from China. They cost $150 to $400. Examples include the Seagull ST8000 and the Hangzhou 5000. Other fakes use a decorative tourbillon. The cage does not rotate. The watch has a regular balance wheel hidden under a plate. A decorative tourbillon adds $20 to the cost.

Cost of a fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillon

Prices for fake Vacheron Constantin tourbillons range from $300 to $2,000. A fake with a real Chinese tourbillon costs $500 to $1,200. A fake with a decorative tourbillon costs $300 to $600. A fake with a Swiss ETA movement and an added tourbillon module costs $1,500 to $2,000. Genuine Vacheron Constantin tourbillons cost $200,000 to $1,000,000. The Tour de l'Ile cost $1.5 million. The Malte Tourbillon costs $300,000.

Legal risks

In the United States, selling fake Vacheron Constantin watches violates trademark law. The penalty is up to $2,000,000 and 10 years in prison for a first offense. Buying a fake watch for personal use is not a federal crime. Customs can seize the watch. The CBP seizes thousands of counterfeit watches each year.