Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation (since 1755), announced two new models in its sporting and technical “Overseas” collection line.  The first is a blue-dialed chronograph (which I will feature in a future post), and the Overseas Chronograph Perpetual Calendar model you see here. This is not the first Perpetual Calendar in the Overseas line — recall for example last year’s red, white and blue “New York” boutique exclusive — but I believe its pink gold case is the first such execution of its kind.  So again, nothing super new here, but there’s many reasons that the VC Overseas is featured regularly here at Perpetuelle — let’s not overlook the many exemplary virtues of this watch — a beautifully arranged alliance between a chronograph and a perpetual calendar.

A masterful blend of elegance and technical Haute Horlogerie, this Overseas Perpetual Calendar model boasts all the signature features of the Overseas collection – the  bezel inspired by Vacheron Constantin’s Maltese Cross emblem, along with the hour markers, crown, screw-lock pushers, as well as the caseback enhanced by a raised medallion depicting the famous three-mast Amerigo Vespucci ship.  The pink gold case is nicely paired with a subtle sandy shade dial.  I only wish they would do something about the 31-day sub-dial (as I’ve discussed before).

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar 

42mm pink gold case (antimagnetic soft iron inner), automatic mechanical VC Calibre 1136 QP (see below), chronograph, day of week, date, 48-month counter w/leap years, moon phase; delivered with two straps — vulcanised brown rubber and brown alligator with pink gold triple-folding clasp

The caseback of this watch depicts the standard bearer of the Overseas watches – the Amerigo Vespucci:

Vacheron Constantin Caliber 1136 QP

automatic, 7.9mm thick x 28mm round, 228 parts, 37 jewels 3Hz (21,600 vph), 40 hr power reserve

 This timepiece is also delivered with a luxurious presentation case equipped with a rotating mechanism that enables the watch – when not worn – to be kept perpetually wound and thereby ensure that the perpetual calendar indications are properly adjusted.

The VC Overseas is a collection we’ve covered regularly and eagerly here at Perpetuelle — lots to love:

• 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)

And of course lots more at http://www.vacheron-constantin.com.