Vacheron Constantin has responded to increasing demand for sleeker vintage watches with a stainless steel version of its popular Historiques 222 model. Paired with a casual dark blue dial, this $32,000 timepiece is more affordable and wearable than the 18k gold version launched in 2022.
The 222 first hit the market in 1977 to mark Vacheron Constantin’s 222nd anniversary. It was relaunched in 2022 in 18k yellow gold and was thrust into the limelight after being spotted on the wrists of several A-listers. But its $86,000 price tag, coupled with the fact that a fully gold watch takes a lifestyle choice, meant a stainless steel version was an inevitable follow-up.
Whereas the yellow gold 222 captured people’s hearts, this new interpretation will be much more likely to capture people’s money. With a practical 37mm case and more durable case material, this is the 222 watch fans have been calling for.
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The watch is not limited and will be added to Vacheron’s continuous collections, but you can still expect a chase to get your hands on one. Ironically, it is its perceived availability that will likely make it popular. Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet continue to hold the Nautilus and Royal Oak back from over-consumption, leaving thousands of would-be collectors searching for stainless steel alternatives. Designed in the same late-1970s era to bridge the gap between formality and sportiness, the 222 is a worthy replacement.
This stainless steel version is a modern interpretation of the original design, complete with the Maltese cross stamped at 5 o’clock. The slender 7.95mm case comes thanks to the ultra-thin Vacheron caliber 2455/2, measuring a mere 3.6 mm and offering a 40-hour power reserve. That thinness, paired with the 37mm case size, helps move the 222 across the dress/sports watch divide.
The movement, as well as a gold oscillating weight engraved with the 222 symbol, is visible through the crystal display caseback. The integrated bracelet is also true to the original stylistically, although it has a butterfly deployment clasp instead. Little has changed on the original dial, except the date window has been moved in so as to not interrupt the minute dials. The hour batons have also been coated in Super-LumiNova.
Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 in stainless steel from $32,000, vacheronconstantin.com
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