Vacheron Constantin has added a brand new model with a combination of 18K rose gold case/bracelet and blue dial to its successful representative in the luxury sports watch segment, Overseas Collection.
If we put aside the never-ending Heritage trend, it is possible to say that the luxury sports watches concept is the most attraction grabbing title, especially for the last five years. Continuing mostly with the legacy of the famous watch guru Gerald Genta, the Big Four group, and cult stainless steel models from a few other manufacturers, this concept grows its popularity incrementally.
One of the successful members of this segment is the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Collection. The collection, which dates back to the 1970s, has been renewed in recent years with designs inspired by its early models and strengthened its place among the strong alternatives of the segment. Today, the Overseas Collection has a brand new model that draws attention with its 18K rose gold case/bracelet material and dazzling azure dial.
As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, the luxury sports watch segment is mostly associated with stainless steel models. A group of watch enthusiasts (!), who define themselves as Purists and claimed that horological values should not be overshadowed by precious metals or stones, aimed for only steel models, constituted the starting point of this strange movement. The fact that the brands produce a limited number of steel models in standard production due to their very low profit margins compared to the steel/gold or solid gold versions made this trend a phenomenon. The speculative pricing policy of second-hand watch dealers and/or fake(!) watch enthusiasts, who buy watches to flip for profit, made this whole thing go off the rails.
After this short but obviously targeting introduction, let's get to the new model.
The new model comes in a 41mm diameter and 11mm high case designed on the modern Overseas platform. The case, which is appreciated for its slimness as well as its sporty presence, is made of 18K 5N rose gold material for this new version. Equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystals on both sides as well as a very characteristic bezel, an elegant crown, and matt-finished surfaces mostly, the case offers the "golden" ratio not only with its material but also with its dimensions as well. The model is water-resistant to 150 meters, which is in line with the luxury sports watch segment.
The dial of the model comes with a vibrant blue tone, which we are familiar with from the steel version. The dial, prepared with a satin pattern on a lacquered background, is accompanied by rose gold hands and indexes that are compatible with the case (and bracelet). With Super-LumiNOVA phosphor fillings, the dial offers perfect legibility in darker environments. The date display window is at 3 o’clock.
The new member of the Overseas Collection comes to life with the manufacture Caliber 5100. 37-jewels automatic movement beats at a frequency of 4Hz (28.800vph) and offers up to 60 hours of power reserve when fully wound. Decorated per the Hallmark of Geneva certification, the movement can be enjoyed through the sapphire crystal case back.
The quick strap change system and additional straps, which are among the most admired features of the modern Overseas concept, are present for this new model as well. For situations where the 18K 5N pink gold bracelet might be too eye-catching, blue rubber and blue alligator strap alternatives are available. Let us remind you that all straps are completed with a pink gold buckle designed in the form of the Maltese cross. The cost of having this extra-precious version added to the model family is EUR 49,800.
