Limited to 200 pieces, the new Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin celebrates 30 years of the collection with a new blue dial and Vacheron Constantin’s ultra-thin perpetual calendar movement.

Launched in 1996, the Overseas is a worthy successor to the legendary 222. Introduced in 1977, the 222, together with the Chronomètre Royal launched in 1975, marked the beginning of the Maison’s sporty-elegant style. The design of the Overseas collection, distinguished by its characteristic bezel secured by screws to the flat case, is like an invitation to travel. The collection combines refinement and practicality with the versatility essential to a modern lifestyle.
In 2004, Vacheron Constantin introduced the second generation of the Overseas. Marking a stylistic turning point from its predecessor, the new design was bolder and sportier, distinguished by an integrated bracelet with links evoking the shape of the Maltese cross, the emblem of the Maison. This second generation also marked the introduction of numerous complicated models, as well as jewelry versions.

In 2016, the Maison introduced the third and current generation, with new movements designed specifically for the collection, including chronograph, dual-time, and world-time movements. While retaining the signature characteristics that had defined the collection’s identity and success—the instantly recognizable notched bezel and integrated bracelet, both recalling the shape of the Maltese cross—the design featured softer lines.
A notable innovation, designed with comfort and versatility as priorities, was the quick-change strap system, allowing the style of the watch to be transformed to suit any occasion. Overseas watches today are equipped with straps that can be changed quickly without the use of any tools. Typically, the set includes three options—a metal bracelet, leather strap, and rubber strap—while the earlier models fitted with alligator or calfskin straps were supplied with just one additional rubber strap.
Since 2016, the collection has expanded into numerous versions, ranging from watches with simple time-only displays to some of the most sophisticated complications in watchmaking, as well as models with openworked movements. In addition to steel and 18K gold, the traditional case materials used in the collection since 1996, titanium and platinum cases have also been introduced.

In 2016, the year the latest generation of the Overseas was introduced, Vacheron Constantin also unveiled a new blue dial color, the result of close collaboration between the Maison’s designers and dial artisans. Distinguished by the sense of visual depth created through a combination of metallic tones and multiple layers of lacquer, this deep blue quickly became an icon among admirers of the Maison.
The new Overseas Ultra-Thin Perpetual Calendar stands out through the use of a new shade of blue. Lighter, less vivid, and less saturated, the blue evokes a sense of escape and wide-open spaces—elements that form part of the collection’s identity. The watch has a distinctive character, taking on different nuances depending on the light, while the subtle shine of white gold creates a balance between sophistication and understated elegance.

The visual depth of the lacquered dial is enhanced by the harmony between its indications, particularly the moon-phase disc, which appears in a similar blue tone. The calendar indications and hour markers are designed to create subtle contrast, improving legibility while maintaining the overall aesthetic balance.
Designed as a true companion, the watch features an easy-change strap system requiring no tools, a feature specific to the Overseas collection. The integrated white-gold bracelet, fitted with a clasp featuring a micro-adjustment system, is complemented by two textured rubber straps—one white and one denim blue—each accompanied by an interchangeable white-gold buckle.

Powered by the in-house designed and manufactured Calibre 1120 QP/1, Vacheron Constantin continues its longstanding tradition of developing exceptionally thin movements. Equipped with a complete perpetual calendar and moon-phase display, this self-winding mechanical movement measures just 4.05 mm thick, allowing the watch to maintain an exceptionally slim profile with a case height of only 8.1 mm.
Considered a true feat of miniaturization, the architecture of the movement demonstrates the technical mastery required to integrate a renowned complication into such a compact space. Automatically accounting for months with 28, 30, and 31 days, as well as leap years, the perpetual calendar requires no adjustment until 2100, a year that will not be a leap year because it is not divisible by 400, according to the rules of the Gregorian calendar.

The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the meticulous attention paid to the finishing of the movement, in keeping with the longstanding tradition of Haute Horlogerie movements: Côtes de Genève and beveling on the bridges, perlage on the mainplate, and surfaces finished with vertical or circular satin brushing on the calendar components.

Also visible is the 22K gold oscillating weight, engraved with a compass rose motif symbolizing the spirit of exploration of the Overseas collection. The attention devoted to finishing all 276 components of the movement, including those hidden once the movement is fully assembled, is a testament to the excellence of watchmaking that defines the identity of the Overseas collection.

Vacheron Constantin Marks 30 Years of Exploration With a New Overseas

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