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
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Vacheron Constantin
Dimensions
37mm
Model
Overseas
Movement
Automatic cal. 1311
Reference
42042
Bracelet
Stainless Steel bracelet
Year
Circa early 2000s
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Featuring a bright white dial with beautifully aged luminous hour markers, this example's display is all about fine details, as evidenced by its subtle textured finish.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Perhaps the most universally wearable size in all of watchmaking, the ref. 42042's 37mm stainless steel case wears exceptionally well, with its integrated bracelet following the case and flowing around the wrist perfectly. Additionally, this example's white dial combines with its polished bezel, making it look that little bit larger than it actually is.
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. There is a fair amount of surface wear on the case and bracelet, with light dings and scratches. The textured white dial has some degradation on the edges, and creamy toned luminous indexes. The bracelet has light stretch and 18 links total, with 8 being removable.
Our Perspective
Unique in terms of its styling, the first generation of the Overseas closely followed the aesthetic code set out by the 222 collection while still improving utility and bringing a more modern sense of Vacheron's elegant design language to what was a robust and wholly functional sport watch.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
