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.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. The case shows minor surface wear and signs of previous polishing. The dial is near-mint and has no visible damage or marks and beautifully aged tritium indexes. The bracelet has 16 links total, 6 of which are removable.

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.