Founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation. Vacheron Constantin’s long history of producing exquisite timepieces, notably high complications, elegant dress watches, and coveted sports watches, has also propelled the high-end watchmaker into the Holy Trinity of Swiss watches alongside Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet.
History And Popular Models
Three generations of Vacheron men were at the helm of their namesake watch company for the first six decades, then in 1819 it officially became known as Vacheron Constantin thanks to a partnership between the founder’s grandson Jacques Barthélémi Vacheron and experienced businessman François Constantin. A few decades later, in 1880, the Maltese Cross was officially trademarked and it continues to be the brand’s official symbol.
Throughout the first half of the 20th Century, Vacheron Constantin unveiled a beautiful selection of wristwatches, many of which serve as inspiration for the Historiques Collection, which houses modern revivals of historically significant vintage Vacheron Constantin watches. It’s a great way to buy Vacheron Constantin watches that combine retro style with modern updates. Some standout models include Historiques 222, Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955, and Historique American 1921.
One of the most popular Vacheron Constantin watches for sale in today’s market is the Overseas, the brand’s flagship sports watch collection. The Overseas can trace its origins back to the Vacheron Constantin 222 model from 1977, an integrated bracelet watch that celebrated the 222nd anniversary of the company. Although the modern Overseas (launched in 1996 and revamped several times since) and the vintage 222 are quite different in execution, the former did borrow a handful of design inspirations from the latter. Notably, an angular case topped with a stylized notched bezel, an integrated bracelet, and most importantly, an overall design that’s casually sporty yet exceedingly high quality. Today’s Overseas watches are available in a range of materials, sizes, and complications, all characterized by their Maltese cross-inspired bezels and bracelet links.
On the other end of the style spectrum is the Patrimony, Vacheron Constantin’s line of understated dress watches. While the collection was officially launched in 2004, Patrimony watch designs are rooted in the company’s wristwatches from the 1950s, featuring slim round cases, minimalist dials, and graceful leather straps.
As its name suggests, the Traditionnelle collection is Vacheron Constantin’s ode to traditional craftsmanship and time-honored mechanical principles. The watches often include intricate complications and classic decorative techniques.
Other popular Vacheron Constantin watches for sale include the mid-century-inspired Fiftysix timepieces, the ladies’ Égérie watches, the highly creative Métiers d'Art pieces, and the barrel-shaped Malte watches. Vacheron Constantin Craftsmanship
Vacheron Constantin is known for its incredible craftsmanship and mastery of mechanical movements. The watch brand is driven by the motto “Do better if possible and that is always possible,” words penned by François Constantin.
A reflection of this ethos is the company’s Les Cabinotiers, a department of the greatest watchmakers and in-house artisans that bring bespoke, unique, and extraordinary timepieces to life. For instance, in 2024, Les Cabinotiers introduced The Berkley Grand Complication, the world’s most complicated watch with 63 horological complications and 2,877 components, beating Vacheron Constantin's own record set in 2015 with the ref. 57260.
While the brand may not have the same hype as the two other members of the Swiss Holy Trinity, those in the know who appreciate excellence, artistry, mechanical prowess, and rarity, buy Vacheron Constantin watches.