Swiss medallion watch depicting the last Shah of Iran Circa 1970

Gold watch by Vacheron & Constantin
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An unusual Swiss medallion watch depicting Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, accompanied by its original black suede protective box, ornamented, circa 1970. This watch features a mechanical nickel lever movement with 17 jewels and a monometallic balance. It has a satin finished gilt dial, applied baton indexes, and baton hands. The round case has a fluted caseband, and the bezel is decorated with stars. The back of the case bears the Effigy of the Shah of Iran. Both the dial and movement are signed. The case is marked with the Maltese Cross, symbol of the House. It comes with a black suede protective case.
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Diameter: 31mm.
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Weight: 21,7 g
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Signed: Vacheron & Constantin, Genève
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The production of coin or medallion watches has a longstanding tradition with the brand Vacheron & Constantin. In 1850, Vacheron & Constantin received its first order to design a watch concealed within a Russian coin. Since then, numerous coins and medallions from around the world have been fitted with watches by Vacheron & Constantin.
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This timepiece was inspired by an Iranian medal commemorating the six original laws of the White Revolution issued in 1962. The programme of reforms was later extended to 12 laws and was presented by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi on 11 January 1963 at the national congress of peasants in Tehran; a referendum on 26 January 1963 approved it. The reforms aimed to modernise Iran and improve the social situation, particularly for women. The design of this watch, dating back to 1970, most likely originated from the Shah’s royal court.