A couple weeks ago I unveiled the spectacular  Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calender in rose gold (Ref  49020/000R-9753), new for 2012.  At the time I also mentioned the new blue-dialed chronograph, reference 49150/B01A-9745, which is what I am here to explore with you today.  The distinctive and prestigious Overseas chronograph was first launched in 1996, with the current collection boasting a wide variety of references in a variety of case metals and dial choices, including models with added complications such as the aforementioned perpetual calendar.  This model with lacquered blue dial and steel case and bracelet joins black and white-dialed models of the same mold.  A version in rose gold/blue dial is also available.  This is undeniably the most adventurous dial color choice yet — bold but by no means overbearing, culminating in a splendid new offering from Vacheron.  Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph with Blue Dial

Ref 49150/B01A-9745

42mm stainless steel case, automatic mechanical Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1137 (3 Hz/21’600 vph), 150m water resistance

Indications: hours, minutes, small second, chronograph with 30-minute (3 o’clock) and 12-hour (9 o’clock) counters

Note above the fine details and interplay of finishes on the case:  the satin-finished table (the flat top part), polished bezel, and chamfered edges.  Unseen is a soft iron inner case providing anti-magnetic resistance.

 Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1137

26.20 mm (11 ¼ lignes) by 6.6mm thick, 3 Hz/21’600 vph, 183 parts, 37 jewels, 40hr power reserve,

As is the standard on the Overseas, the caseback is distinguished by a raised motif depicting the historical Amerigo Vespucci sailboat.  Here is a closeup:

As I have discussed previously, the Maltese Cross is a major source of design inspiration for this piece — Maltese Cross inspired bezel and crown.  Note also the blue snailed counters and applied hands and hour-markers in 18K white gold (with white luminescent material):

Another distinctive feature is the steel bracelet, its links shaped like a half Maltese Cross and with a mix of polished and satin finished surfaces.  And then there is the beautiful view on the bottom, when the triple-blade folding clasp is closed:

This Overseas Chronograph in steel case, among the most distinctive and iconic Haute Horlgerie chronograph watches, will likely be priced around US $22,000, similar to the white and black dial, steel case models.  Thanks to Vacheron for the live pics.

Explore more at  http://www.vacheron-constantin.com, or Perpetuelle’s coverage of VC here:

• Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph for Turkey (June 2010)
• Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph for Greece (June 2010)
• Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph for Italy-Pisa Orologeri (September 2010)
• Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Perpetual Calendar “New York” (July 2011)
• Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Perpetual Calendar in Pink Gold (August 2012)