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 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Guarantee, Spare Links and Booklets
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Vacheron Constantin
Dimensions
35mm
Model
Overseas
Movement
Automatic
Reference
42050
Bracelet
Stainless Steel bracelet
Year
Circa late 1990s
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Watch, Box, Guarantee, Spare Links and Booklets
Dial Color
Grey
Condition
Complete with accessories and spare links, this Overseas is in very nice original condition. The case with light surface wear and with strong case lines and definition. The dial is very nice and the lume accents have all aged consistently. The bracelet in nice condition, light wear and 17 links, 5 removable, 2 on the side.
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.