Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas: The Latest Hot Watch for Collectors?
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas is a hot commodity right now. But why? What’s behind the Overseas’ meteoric rise to the top of wish lists?
Each of watchmaking’s “Big Three” ultra-luxury brands – Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin – makes sports watches. Patek Philippe’s Nautilus and Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak continue to be extremely sought-after, but the Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas is giving them a serious run for their money. Our regular contributor Jorg recommends the Overseas as a potential investment watch in 2022.
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas: Not Designed by Genta
Let’s take a quick look at the history of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and Patek Philippe Nautilus. It’s widely believed that all three of these watches were designed by Gérald Genta, a legendary watchmaking design maverick. Vacheron Constantin’s 222 is the precursor to the Overseas and was launched in 1977 to mark the brand’s 222nd anniversary. However, the Overseas was designed by the lesser-known Jörg Hysek, who had four years of experience working at Rolex under his belt and had just ventured out on his own.
What makes the Vacheron Constantin Overseas the next hype watch?
The current developments with the Vacheron Constantin Overseas are probably the result of a few different factors. First, most serious collectors probably already own a Nautilus and/or a Royal Oak. These watches are highly recognizable and a point of pride for any collector. But for collectors itching for another luxury sports watch from a different brand, Vacheron Constantin is the next natural step.
Second, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas is a good fit for someone looking for a watch that’s not as instantly recognizable. To be sure, the Overseas looks great, but it’s not as easy to identify at first glance. It’s more subtle and a great choice for those who love watches that whisper instead of shout.
Third, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas is rarer than the Royal Oak and the Nautilus. Vacheron Constantin produces a relatively small number of watches annually. The Overseas is one of several watch models VC makes, and the number of Overseas made every year is limited.
A fourth reason may also be that collectors are looking for the “next big thing” in terms of resale and auction market prices. Many collectors feel that the Overseas is currently undervalued due to its relative rarity, and until recently, it’s lacked a little “buzz.” The Overseas comes in various configurations, from time-only to perpetual calendars. Its range mirrors the options available from the Nautilus and Royal Oak.
The Overseas has a great story to tell when it comes to its history at Vacheron Constantin. The inspiration for its name comes from François Constantin, who joined Jacques-Barthélemi Vacheron as a partner in 1819, with the company’s new official name becoming Vacheron et Constantin. Constantin was an avid traveler and salesman before joining forces with Vacheron, and his passion for travel and adventure led to new inspiration for the brand. You could say that travel, both local and overseas, is in the very DNA of these timepieces.
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