Introduction
Released in 1996, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas was, in effect, the revival of VC’s previously discontinued sports watch collection, the 222 - released to celebrate VC's 222nd anniversary. As the 222 was VC’s first foray into sports watches, designers Vincent Kaufmann and Dino Modolo sought to build upon that very same aesthetic with the Overseas and create a watch that could “weather any challenge [and] share your horizons”. The first iteration of the Overseas was produced from 1996 until 2004 and came in a tonneau-shaped case with a fluted bezel designed to evoke VC’s emblem, the Maltese cross. Combining its thin 9mm case with the Overseas’ other elegant dimensions, the Overseas exuded the very same refined proportions that Vacheron were, and still are so well known for while retaining a robust water-resistant stainless steel case and a strong integrated bracelet.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Vacheron Constantin
Dimensions
37mm
Model
Overseas
Movement
Automatic cal. 1310
Reference
42040
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa late 1990s
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Salmon
THE DIAL
This example has a beautiful and desirable salmon dial with aged tritium luminous hour markers and hands that add an appealing layer of elegance to this stunning display.
THE CASEBACK
The designers of the Overseas wanted to create a watch that could “weather any challenge [and] share your horizons”, hence the name and the emblem on the caseback with the ship.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case exhibits some minor scratches and marks, with the polished bezel exhibiting the most wear. The original salmon tone dial in near-mint condition, and tritium hands that are lightly aged ad match the dial's tritium indexes. Bracelet has 13 links, 5 of which are removable. There is light stretch.
Our Perspective
The predecessor to one of horology's most sought-after watches, the Overseas ref. 42050 paved the way for the modern collection to take watchmaking by storm. With its various nods to Vacheron's unique aesthetic, the early examples of the Overseas are immediately distinctive and entirely charming.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
