Vacheron Constantin marks its 270th anniversary with two new expressions of the Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin, a model that has become one of the manufacture’s modern signatures. Known for combining high complications with refined proportions and everyday wearability, the Overseas Ultra-Thin remains one of the most admired perpetual calendars in contemporary watchmaking.
At 41.5mm in diameter and only 8.1mm thick, the Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin continues to demonstrate Vacheron Constantin’s technical mastery. The case may not be “ultra-thin” compared to dress watches, but within the category of complicated sports watches, it stands out as remarkably svelte. Water-resistant to 50 metres, the watch is versatile enough for daily wear, though its true character lies in blending refined finishing with the robustness expected from the Overseas family. Satin-brushed surfaces contrast with mirror-polished bevels, and the Maltese cross motif is echoed in the bezel and bracelet links — details that distinguish Vacheron Constantin among the so-called Holy Trinity of Swiss watchmaking.
The new releases arrive in two precious metals, each with a distinct personality. The 18k 5N pink gold reference (4300V/220R-H144) adopts a monochromatic approach. Its golden sunburst lacquer dial flows seamlessly into the case, with subdials finished in a subtle snailed texture and hands, indices, and even the moonphase disc fashioned from matching pink gold. Blue accents highlight the minute track and leap-year indicator, ensuring clarity without breaking the dial’s cohesive tone.
The 18k white gold reference (4300V/220G-H151) takes a different route, pairing its case with a deep burgundy lacquer dial. Like the pink gold model, it carries sunburst and snailed finishing, but here the contrast is sharper white gold hands and markers stand out against the rich red surface. The moonphase disc echoes the dial colour, punctuated by polished white gold moons. Subtle cyan highlights on the minute track and leap-year sector add a modern twist to an otherwise classic composition.
As with all Overseas models, the quick-change strap system is central to the design. Both watches are delivered with a case-matching bracelet and two additional rubber straps. The pink gold version includes dark blue and white options, while the white gold model comes with burgundy and white. Each bracelet features Vacheron Constantin’s Easy-Fit adjustment, allowing on-the-fly sizing for comfort throughout the day.
At the heart of both references is the in-house calibre 1120 QP/1, an automatic movement just 4.05mm thick. Despite its slim profile, it houses a perpetual calendar with displays for day, date, month, leap year, and moonphase — all accurate until the year 2100. Operating at 19,800 vibrations per hour with a 40-hour power reserve, the calibre is decorated to Geneva Seal standards, with perlage, chamfered edges, and a 22k gold rotor engraved with the Maltese cross.
The Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin has long been considered a grail within Vacheron Constantin’s catalogue. These two new configurations extend the line’s appeal by offering collectors the choice between understated monochrome in pink gold or bold contrast in white gold and burgundy. At €111,650 before VAT (around $130,000), they are not limited editions but will be available exclusively through Vacheron Constantin boutiques.
With their combination of technical sophistication, elegant proportions, and versatile styling, these new Overseas models reaffirm Vacheron Constantin’s standing at the highest echelon of Swiss watchmaking.
