Vacheron Constantin Overseas 5500V
The 1970s were a challenging time for the Swiss watch industry, leading to the emergence of luxury sports watches in steel. With the Royal Oak and Nautilus in the spotlight, Vacheron Constantin, the world's oldest watchmaker, felt pressured to respond. The result was the first "Overseas" model, the Reference 222, launched in 1977. Since then, the Overseas has developed into one of Vacheron Constantin's most iconic collections and one of the most recognized models in the watch world.
The development and horological ambitions of the Overseas collection
The first model series, called Overseas, was introduced in 1996, and in 1999, Vacheron Constantin introduced a chronograph based on the Frédéric Piguet cal. 1185. In 2006, the collection was expanded with a dual-time model with an additional time zone, power reserve indicator, day/night display and date function. Later models with additional complications followed, including the ultra-thin perpetual calendar and the Worldtimer.
Reference 5500V – Modern functionality and classic VC finish
The current reference, Overseas Chronograph 5500V/110A-B147 , has a 42.5 mm steel case with polished sides and a satin-brushed finish. The elegant brown dial features time, date, chronograph and small seconds. Markers and hands in black-oxidized 18K white gold with Super-LumiNova.
The automatic movement delivers a power reserve of 52 hours, while the refined steel bracelet with Vacheron links and folding clasp ensures a comfortable fit – a watch that is both a technical feat and an aesthetic pleasure. In addition, the bracelet can be easily replaced with a brown rubber strap with Malteser folding clasp thanks to a smart quick release function.
Vacheron Constantin – A watchmaker with 250 years of heritage
Founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron in Geneva, Vacheron Constantin has maintained an uninterrupted history as one of the world's oldest watchmaking companies. As early as 1770, the company created its first complication and nine years later introduced the first guilloché dials. In 1819, François Constantin joined the company, and together they laid the foundation for a legacy of innovation and masterful craftsmanship that still lives on today.
