Not the best photo, between my clumsy shadow, and the dial protection plastic being on both pieces, but you get the idea. 

I got to spend some time with both sizes yesterday. They are really extraordinary. The grained dial adds such a very subtle character to the piece, the case is uncannily beautiful, really reminding me of some Patrimony cases that I like a lot, and both sizes wear very comfortably flat on (at least my) wrist. The blue indicators add a pop of color without being overpowering. 

One interesting observation is that my SA said that so far they’re getting more interest in the 36.5mm. That makes sense, given that it’s a dress watch (albeit an unconventional, maybe “louder”, one). However, we both noticed that the strap on the 36.5mm is considerably more slender and arguably gives a feminine look. He said they’re likely going to introduce some alternative sizing on the strap for those men who want the 36.5mm but are being pushed away by the strap. 

I know purists will say the 1921 is really “pre-Art Deco”, but it certainly forecasted what grew into Art Deco. The style has always represented the most significant, genuinely American, design style to me. I’m thrilled VC brought these updates to the piece while retaining enough of the original design elements for it to credibly honor the heritage. 

I’m now registered for the 40mm and my SA says I should have it in a month. That feels like very good turnaround to me for a piece that was just announced at W&W. I don’t have any purchase history with VC. This will be my first VC (though I’m also registered for an Overseas 4520v 41mm Blue Dial). 

My Thoughts on the New Historiques American 1921