Vacheron Constantin Watch Buying Guide: Your Horological Journey

By Harrison Brown
7 Jun 2024

Vacheron Constantin, a brand regarded with the upmost respect and caviller. As the world's oldest watchmaking brand, Vacheron Constantin has a truly mesmerising story to how they became part of the Holy Trinity and continue to deliver spectacular watches that ensure your timepiece does more than look good on the wrist.

Below, you will discover the amazing journey of Vacheron Constantin and how to find your perfect luxury watch. I have done the research and put everything together in a simple Vacheron Constantin buying guide to make your shopping experience seamless.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph

The Story of Vacheron Constantin

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin stands as the longest running watchmaking brand in the world. Jean-Marc Vacheron began his watchmaking brand in Geneva, Switzerland in hopes of transforming the traditional work of horology.

Its origins can be found in the circles of the Geneva Cabinotiers. A group of watchmaking masters worked in the light-flooded cabinets in the district of Saint-Gervais. This then began Vacheron Constantin's most cherished service, Les Cabinotiers. A bespoke watchmaking service for the elite that redefines the meaning of luxury.

During the First World War, the need for expensive, bespoke timepieces dwindled, and so the company began to see a downfall of sales and interest. It was then that they partnered with their peer in luxury watchmaking, Jaeger Le-Coultre, expanding their empire through Europe and eventually, the world.

The brand continues to be known for their rare pieces, only producing small increments of watches per collection, per year. Making highly sought-after watches. In the 21st century, Vacheron Constantin started releasing more standardised production models, including the sporty inspired Fifty-Six, the elegant Patrimony, and the robust Overseas. Although Vacheron Constantin has a history of avoiding mass uniform production, this approach has not diminished its status as one of the premier watchmakers in the industry.

The Vacheron Constantin Collections

With over 250 years of experience in crafting original movements and timepieces, Vacheron Constantin have kept their selections small. Allowing us to dream of having one within our repertoire. Below, I dive into each glorious collection and even discuss a few of the watches you’ll find within.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas

The 1970s marked the pinnacle era for high-end sports watches. In line with the other two esteemed brands of the ‘Holy Trinity’, Vacheron Constantin introduced its rendition of sports watches with the debut of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas model in 1977. This collection quickly became the most iconic representation of Vacheron Constantin’s sports watches. Its distinctive bezel, immediately recognisable by its rectangular indentations, echoes the brand’s signature Maltese cross emblem.

A popular model of the Vacheron Overseas, is the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph. A timepiece that is forever timeless in its appeal and rugged in it’s functionality. The transparent case back of the watch showcases a 22K gold oscillating mass, adorned with a design influenced by the wind rose, symbolizing the essence of exploration and travel.

Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix

Unveiled as a more wearable watch, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix makes for the perfect dress watch. Crafted from durable steel, supple leather straps, and grand dials, the Fiftysix collection showcases Vacheron Constantins affinity for vintage class.

A gorgeous display of the Fitysix collection is the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Tourbillon This 18K pink gold timepiece honours a 1956 model and stands as the inaugural tourbillon of the Fiftysix collection. The Maltese cross, an emblematic symbol of Vacheron Constantin, adorns the tourbillon cage, the crown, and discreetly, the lugs. The mechanism boasts a power reserve exceeding 3 days and features a 22K gold peripheral rotor, which, through the skeletonised case back, offers an unobstructed view of the entire movement.

Vacheron Constantin Historiques

Vacheron Constantin unveiled the Historiques collection in 1989, with the first pieces becoming available for purchase in 1990. This collection represented Vacheron’s initial foray into deliberately vintage-inspired timepieces, coinciding with what many refer to as the “mechanical watch renaissance.” The brand’s unparalleled and fascinating heritage is encapsulated within this line, which has enjoyed tremendous success since its inception.

A slightly more unusual design, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American features a rectangular, rounded case with an off-centre dial. A prominent attribute of this timepiece is the hand-wound mechanism that guarantees accurate time measurement and boasts a power reserve of 65 hours. This ensures that the watch will continue to function reliably, even if it is not worn for several days.

Looking for something more modern with a classic feel? The Vacheron Constantin Historqiues Manual Winding is a gorgeous display of the brilliance within the VC brand. The Historiques Triple Calendrier 1942 is distinguished by its dual-shaded dial, which pairs an opaline motif with a matt-finished date track in a striking red hue. This watch is a nod to the 1940s, offering both triple and complete calendar functionalities, including day and date displays. The date complication is prominently situated at the 12 o’clock mark beneath the brand’s insignia, while a small seconds feature resides at 6 o’clock. The central hands are designated for hours, minutes, and dates, all of which align with the outer track.

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony

Released in 2004, Vacheron Constantin Patrimony was set to take the luxury brand to new heights. Patrimony, meaning “an inheritance from one’s father” set the pretence of being more than a simple dress watch, this was a legacy to be passed on through generations.

The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony is a classic watch with timeless features. Offering a wide selection of models to both men and women, this versatile collection becomes a showstopper in your collection.

Vacheron Constantin Historiques Manual Winding

Are Vacheron Constantin Movements In-House?

Being branded the world's oldest watchmaking brand, one would be inclined to think that every timepiece that leaves the Vacheron Constantin workshop would be made from an in-house movement.

However, in this modern era, VC have handed over the majority of their construction to Jaeger-LeCoultre. Using JLC movements to power their watches while remaining at a luxury standard. In fact, the Holy Trinity of watchmaking- Vacheron Constantin, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet- can all be seen integrating JLC movements into their watches at one time or another.
So, in short, the Vacheron Constantin watches you will find today will rarely house an n-house movement from the brand. But that doesn't make them any less amazing or luxurious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Are The Holy Trinity of Watches?

The term ‘Holy Trinity,’ or ‘The Big Three,’ refers to the trio of the most prestigious and long-established watchmaking companies globally. These brands, which include Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin, are celebrated for their intricate and luxurious timepiece mechanisms. This esteemed categorization has been in use since at least the 1970s.

Do Vacheron Constantin Watches Hold Their Value?

Yes, Vacheron Constatin watches had their value over time due to their unwavering commitment to quality and their rich heritage as fine watchmakers.

How Many Watches A Year Does Vacheron Constantin Produce?

Vacheron produce around 20,000 watches a year. Striving for artistic perfection, they produce the smallest amount of watches in a year compared to other luxury watchmaking brands making their timepieces highly sought after no matter the model.

Where Can You Buy A Vacheron Constantin Watch?

Finding your dream Vacheron Constantin Watch has never been easier at Chisholm Hunter. Shop online or in one of our 27 stores across the U.K and select Vacheron Constnatin boutiques!

As you stand at the crossroads of craftsmanship and heritage, choosing a Vacheron Constantin timepiece is not just a purchase; it's an investment in a legacy of excellence. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of the Patrimony, the adventurous spirit of the Overseas. or the historical homage of the Historiques, each watch is a testament to Vacheron's commitment to precision and luxury. We invite you to take the next step in this horological journey and select a watch that will not only keep time but will also tell your story for generations to come. Discover your Vacheron Constantin and become part of an illustrious tradition that ticks in perfect harmony with innovation and artistry.