At this year’s Watches & Wonders, Vacheron Constantin is introducing its Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin model in white-gold for the first time. Two versions are available; skeletonised or with a deep blue dial. Measuring only 8.1 mm in height, the slim timepieces come with three strap options.
For the first time ever, the Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin is available in white-gold. As with the other models, the case measures 41.5 x 8.1 mm. As always, the Overseas case features a hexagonal bezel evoking the Maltese cross, a fluted crown, as well as polished and satin-brushed finishing. The watch is water-resistant to 50 m and features a sapphire crystal caseback.
The new white-gold Overseas watch comes in two variations. This includes one with a lacquered, deep blue sunburst dial, or alternatively, a recognisable skeletonised dial. The latter reveals the inner workings of the movement. For instance, the model showcases an open-worked oscillating weight with a 22-carat gold segment. Furthermore, both perpetual calendar models display the months and leap year (12 o’clock), date (3 o’clock), moonphase (6 o’clock), and days (9 o’clock). Meanwhile, facetted and luminescent white-gold hour markers and hands display the time.
The calibres of both Overseas Ultra-Thin editions are visible via the sapphire crystal caseback. Interestingly, the two models use different movements. While the skeletonised version uses the highly decorated calibre 1120 QPSQ/1, the blue dial version uses the calibre 1120 QP/1.
Calibre 1120 QPSQ/1
Firstly, the in-house calibre 1120 QPSQ/1, powering the Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin Skeleton, is a self-winding movement with 276 components and 40-hour power reserve. This highly decorated movement, also visible via the dial, aims to “accentuate the functional beauty of the mechanism”. Evidence of the watch manufacture’s artisan skill comes to light in the form of the straight-graining of the surfaces (lending a satin-brushed look to the chamfered straight lines), curves (creating light effects), circular brushing, sunburst finishing, circular-graining, and polishing (to vary the depth effects).
Calibre 1120 QP/1
Meanwhile, the calibre 1120 QP/1, ticking inside of the Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin, is an ultra-thin self-winding movement that is barely 4.05 mm thick – despite its 276 components. It beats at a frequency of 2.75 Hz and offers a 40-hour power reserve. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the Haute Horlogerie finishings. This includes Côtes de Genève, straight-graining, chamfering, and circular-graining. Its 22-carat gold oscillating weight, adorned with a compass rose, symbolises the spirit of travel and exploration.
Last but not least, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas 2021 models come with three interchangeable straps. This includes a white-gold bracelet, a blue Mississippiensis alligator leather strap, or a blue rubber strap. The latter two options feature an 18-carat white-gold pin buckle. Meanwhile, the bracelet uses the brand’s half Maltese cross-shaped polished and satin-brushed links, and secures with a triple-blade folding clasp with push-pieces and comfort-adjustment system. In Addition, the case features a system that allows the wearer to easily switch between the bracelet and straps without the need for a tool.
Finally, the models are priced at 106,000 and 141,000 euros respectively. They are available exclusively from Vacheron Constantin boutiques.
