Vacheron Constantin
In the middle of the 18th Century, in the city of Geneva, a young man called Jean-Marc Vacheron decided to open his own watch-making workshop. This exceptional craftsman founded a business that was to become one of the most renowned in the science of time. Recognized as the world's oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation since 1755, and founder of the spirit of technical and precious Haute Horlogerie, Vacheron Constantin has been making horological history for over 250 years. While honoring its past, Vacheron Constantin remains at the forefront of technical horology by creating high complication timepieces with an unrivalled level of hand-finishing. Vacheron Constantin timepieces are considered aesthetic masterpieces, positioned at the pinnacle of Haute Horologerie, where precision meets perfection.
About The Brand
Selected by presidents and worn by leaders across the globe since 1858, Vacheron Constantin watches are rugged yet elegant, innovative and classic, and the brand and style preferred by men and women who are unafraid of adventure and exploration. For centuries, Vacheron Constantin has worked to perfect watch complications like the tourbillon and world time, cementing their name as a leader among the most renowned manufacturers in the industry. Today, modern celebrities still see the value in this brand, with this watch having been spotted on the wrist of Alexander Skarsgard, who is known for his role as Tarzan, producer Vishal Rungta, Tim Story, the director of “Ride Along,” and Gold actor, Edgar Ramirez. Perhaps more importantly, the brand is known for its sporty Overseas collection and the more dressy Patrimony family. Flaunting technical precision, avante-garde designs, robust functionality, and a beloved name that’s as old as time, Vacheron Constantin offers something for every collector looking for an elite timepiece.
Vacheron Constantin: The History
The tradition of Vacheron watches was started by 24-year-old watchmaker Jean-Marc Vacheron in 1755 in the Vallée de Joux outside of Geneva. At this time, he gathered basic materials and created a true timekeeping masterpiece. Then in 1785, Vacheron’s son, Abraham, took over the watchmaking business during the French Revolution. Until 1817, the workshop was run entirely by the family, and then French businessman Francois Constantin brought expansion ideas to the Vacherons. Soon afterward, the brand adopted both family names.
A Prosperous Partnership
After Vacheron Constantin became the official name of the manufacture, the iconic Maltese Cross logo quickly caught the attention of many, serving as a recognizable symbol of superior quality, craftsmanship, and precision. Throughout the French Revolution and both World Wars, Vacheron Constantin watches remained a favorite among princes and kings, and expanded into new markets in the U.S. and South America. Even today, the brand's legacy continues, and every piece created still undergoes careful scrutiny by the Geneva office to make sure that the watch’s quality meets the requirements to receive the Hallmark of Geneva seal of approval. Today, Vacheron Constantin is known as part of the “Holy Trinity” of watch brands alongside Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet .
Explore Vacheron Constantin Models
From its beginnings in the 18th century, Vacheron Constantin introduced compelling complications and fascinating functions that shaped the world of luxury timepieces for good. Today, the brand is recognized for its technical skill in creating perpetual calendars, moon phase displays, and the gravity-defying tourbillon to name a few. Learn more about a handful of its most notable timepieces including the infamous Overseas.
Overseas
The Phase 1 Vacheron Constantin Overseas was released in 1996 as a descendant of their iconic 222 model. This casual yet elegant statement watch features an integrated bracelet design, tonneau-shaped case, and all the functionality of a robust sports piece. Due to its fame and praise, it’s available in several styles and limited editions today. For example, watch this expert review of the Overseas Automatic Deep Stream to see a model up close, or discover this Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive ref. 2000V/120G-B122 featuring a 18k white gold case and mesmerizing gray dial. Interested in chronograph iterations? Read this review of the Vacheron Overseas Chronograph, as well as this one discussing the Overseas Chronometer in a decadent 18k yellow gold.
Patrimony
If you’re looking for an elegant model that offers a wide range of complications, functions, and material options, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony is a great collection to explore. To start, various references include minute repeaters, perpetual calendars, and a moon phase retrograde date. Discover this pre-owned Patrimony Perpetual Calendar ref. 49005/000P-7622 for a sleek white dial timepiece, or this handsome ref. 8118/0000R-B518 with a 18k rose gold case and striking blue dial.
Historiques
To pay tribute to their centuries-old tradition in excellence, Vacheron Constantin created the Historiques collection to provide contemporary reinterpretations of some of their most infamous models. Find breathtaking pieces like this Historiques Ultra-Fine piece with a square rose gold case, or this “Cornes de Vache 1955” model in our pre-owned suite.
Other Noteworthy Models
With a brand that is centuries old, it’s no surprise that they’ve released several watches and collections over the years — ones that are no longer easy to come by on the market. For example, discover this pre-owned Saltarello Jump Hour timepiece for a rare find, or watch this video about the Vacheron Constantin Toledo 1952 model.