BY HARLAN CHAPMAN-GREEN
In recent years, we’ve seen average watch diameters increase and decrease as reflections of fashion trends, although some brands, I feel, are deliberately ignoring that. One size that’s slowly creeping back to popularity is the mid-30mm diameter, and Vacheron Constantin is next up to the plate with two Overseas watches measuring 34.5mm x 9.33mm.
The two pieces offered come in either stainless steel with a dressy deep red lacquered dial or 18k pink gold with a pink gold lacquered dial. Each has 50m of water resistance, adding a layer of practicality, though not the same as the larger Overseas models.
Both pieces come with quick-change systems for their straps, and they are supplied with a bracelet matching the case metal, as well as a leather and a rubber strap. Specifically, the stainless steel model gets a deep red shiny alligator leather strap and a deep red rubber strap to match its dial; meanwhile, the 18k pink gold version gets a white shiny alligator leather strap and a white rubber strap.
Both pieces come with classy dials featuring date indicators and, well, not a lot else. There’s Super-LumiNova on the markers and hands for practicality, but Vacheron Constantin sees these watches as fashionable, chic pieces with serious watchmaking rather than exclusively practical ones. I can tell that because the press brief speaks little of the calibre 1088/1 placed inside both pieces.
The 1088/1 is not a new calibre, having served in the other 35mm Overseas models and in a couple of their Égérie models too. It’s self-winding with a 22k gold rotor, it’s just 3.83mm thick, and it has a power reserve of around 40 hours. A modern 4Hz beat rate means it should be accurate, although it is not listed as a certified chronometer, nor is it a Geneva Seal movement as we typically see from Vacheron Constantin. But it looks good and, knowing the people who made it, will be solid for many years.
Both of these smaller Overseas models are part of the permanent collection. In stainless steel, the price is $26,600 / £23,200 / CHF23,100, and in 18k pink gold, the price is $59,500 / £52,000 / CHF51,500; prices include tax.
Explore more at Vacheron Constantin
