Vacheron Constantin Overseas automatic 36 mm Full Set circa 2000

The basics

In 1977, for its 222nd anniversary, Vacheron Constantin presented its first watch with an integrated bracelet, the reference 222! Its design departs from the usual design principles of the brand with the Maltese cross, with a monobloc case, mounted on a fitted bracelet and fitted with a porthole-shaped bezel that gives it great resistance to wear and tear in hostile environments. A far cry from the dress watches marketed by the Manufacture! Thanks to its singular character, this iconic timepiece has become one of Vacheron Constantin's most recognizable models over the course of its release.

Although it was the last reference to be introduced into the integrated steel sports watch movement, the 222 was a real contender for the other two members of watchmaking's "Holy Trinity", namely Patek Philippe's Nautilus and Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak.

As such, reference 222 inspired the line of an equally remarkable collection: the Overseas. Introduced in 1996, this collection embraces the technical and sporting dimension of Haute Horlogerie. Direct descendants of the 1977 model, all pieces in the Overseas collection retain several classic features, such as the notched bezel, integrated bracelet and minimalist, almost industrial look.

This original collection was designed by a team including Dino Modolo, an external watch designer, and Vincent Kaufmann of Vacheron Constantin. Initially offered in 37 mm, 35 mm and 24 mm. Produced for a brief period from 1996 to 2004, the original Overseas collection represents Vacheron Constantin's vision of the contemporary integrated steel sports watch.

The model

The model we present is the larger version at 37 mm in diameter, known as reference 42040. It features a boldly designed steel case with broad shoulders and an integrated steel bracelet. The polished bezel, bracelet edges and case flank contrast beautifully with the brushed surface of the case and bracelet, recalling the play of textures found on models designed by the genius Gérald Genta. Its bezel features a serrated profile, a tribute to the shape of the Maltese Cross, Vacheron Constantin's emblem.

Because of its unique shape, the Overseas may seem larger on the wrist than you might think at first glance. But when worn, this is excellent, as this watch hugs the wrist in a way that is both extremely comfortable, yet also very elegant and full of character.

The dial of this Vacheron Overseas is a creamy white textured with light vertical wavelets. Unlike the 222, the Maltese cross motif does not appear in the right-hand corner of the case, but takes pride of place at 12 o'clock on the dial itself. On this model, the hour-markers and hands are in white gold, as indicated by the "σ SWISS MADE σ" signature at the bottom of the dial. The "σ" symbol, for sigma in Greek, was used as a visual statement of the use of precious materials on the side of the dial. It was adopted by a number of manufactures from the 1970s onwards, emphasizing the inherent value of a high-quality mechanical watch. The hands are executed in a contemporary style, the color of the luminaire matching that of the dial. The signatures are in a contemporary font. Last but not least, on this pre-2000 model, we find triangles that have patinated over time, in an almost coffee color. A treat!

Finally, the caseback displays the three-masted Amerigo Vespucci, recalling the maritime connotations of the Overseas collection. The caseback conceals Vacheron Constantin's calibre 1310, based on Girard Perregaux's calibre 3100 ébauche. This 27-jewel automatic movement features a quick-set date function and a 46-hour power reserve.

The package

This Vacheron Constantin Overseas is in beautiful condition, but has a few scratches on the bracelet as well as the bezel. This watch was sold in December 2009 in Greece, more than a decade after it was first marketed! This Overseas will be delivered Full Set, with its original case, warranty and instructions for use. This watch has had a full service in 2018 and has also been checked by our watchmakers. As such, it benefits from our Lepage Vintage one-year warranty.