Constant Companions

Global roamers have a new range of exquisite watches from Vacheron Constantin to help them keep track of time.

- Christian Barker

Although several watchmaking companies were founded before Vacheron Constantin, none can lay claim to the unbroken line of watchmaking that the luxury Swiss manufacture can, all having had periods of dormancy. Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watchmaker in continuous operation, ceaselessly creating exquisite timepieces for more than 260 years.

That’s not to say the brand is stuck in the past. Its dedication to melding time-honoured craftsmanship with contemporary, cosmopolitan style was expressed in sharp relief at this year’s SIHH watch fair, where the house launched a new range aimed at the younger customer, Fiftysix, which was promoted with video footage of cool young dudes skateboarding in suits. Business up top, totally rad down below, yo.

But we’re not here to talk about that millennial-friendly novelty. Rather, it’s a hip 1970s throwback, the Overseas, that’s currently under discussion. The Overseas is based on Vacheron’s first luxury sports watch, named the 222. Launched in 1977 to celebrate the manufacture’s 222nd anniversary, its unique lines were penned by the German watch design icon Jörg Hysek, forming the general aesthetic the Overseas range has explored and evolved since 1996.