Launched in 1940 and in production until 1964, Vacheron Constantin's reference 4178 is the model collectors immediately designate as an icon and the chronograph most associated with Vacheron Constantin. Immediately recognizable thanks to its gorgeous and inimitable teardrop lugs, the 4178 is also considered one of the most beautiful chronograph watches ever made due to its balanced proportions and near-perfect symmetry.

The present watch is an exceedingly rare species due to the dial, which displays the signature of Italian watch retailer Silipo. Founded in 1913, Silipo sells both jewelry and watches, and is still in business today. It was an honor and rare occurrence for a retailer to print their name on the dial, which underscores the rarity of the present timepiece.

The watch itself is preserved in excellent condition and displays a crisp hallmark beneath the lugs. The dial is preserved in excellent condition with a crisp signature and graphics.