Brands & models

Vacheron Constantin Buying Guide: Overseas, Patrimony, FiftySix and 222

Vacheron Constantin explained for buyers: Geneva since 1755, the Overseas, Patrimony, FiftySix and Historiques 222, prices from our stock and what to check.

Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 with blue dial in steel, reference 4200H/222A-B934

Vacheron Constantin is one of the three Geneva houses collectors call the holy trinity, with Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. It is also the oldest of them. We have 150 Vacheron Constantin watches in stock, from $4,840 to $409,200, with a median of $27,235.

A short history

Jean-Marc Vacheron opened his workshop in Geneva in 1755. Vacheron Constantin is generally described as the oldest watch manufacture in continuous operation since its founding. François Constantin joined in 1819 and gave the company its full name and its motto, "Do better if possible, and that is always possible." The Maltese cross, inspired by a component of early movements, became its emblem.

In 1977 the company launched the 222, a steel sports watch with an integrated bracelet, named for its 222nd anniversary. Its spirit continued in the Overseas from 1996, and Vacheron reissued the original as the Historiques 222 in 2022. Vacheron Constantin is part of the Richemont group.

The collections

Overseas. The sports watch: integrated bracelet, Maltese-cross-inspired bezel and a quick-change system for bracelets and straps, in time-only, date, dual time and chronograph versions. In stock: 62, from $8,795.

Patrimony. The purest dress watch: thin round case, minimal dial. In stock: 8.

FiftySix. Launched in 2018 and inspired by a reference of 1956, with distinctive lugs echoing the Maltese cross; a more accessible way into the brand. In stock: 10, from $9,415.

Historiques. Reissues of historic models, including the 222. In stock: 9.

What Vacheron Constantin costs

Our prices run from $4,840 to $409,200. Unworn pieces start at $21,075 and pre-owned at $4,840. Steel Overseas models are the most in demand and often sell above retail; FiftySix and Patrimony models are usually the most accessible.

References we stock most

  • 4500V/110A-B128 — 5 in stock, from $18,040
  • 4600E/000A-B442 — 4 in stock, from $9,415
  • 7900V/110A-B333 — 4 in stock, from $21,995
  • 4200H/222A-B934 — 3 in stock, from $50,115

Overseas or Royal Oak?

The Overseas is often compared with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, another integrated-bracelet steel sports watch. We put them side by side in Vacheron Constantin Overseas vs Royal Oak.

What to check on a pre-owned Vacheron Constantin

  • Bracelets and straps. Overseas models often come with a bracelet plus extra straps; check what is included.
  • The Hallmark of Geneva. Many Vacheron movements carry the Geneva Seal, engraved on the movement; it should be visible through the case back where applicable.
  • Polishing. The Overseas mixes brushed and polished surfaces; heavy polishing blurs them.
  • Papers. Vacheron Constantin watches registered with the brand qualify for an extended warranty; papers matter. See why box and papers matter.
  • Serial and service. Our pre-owned checklist covers the rest.

Frequently asked questions

Is Vacheron Constantin part of the holy trinity?

Yes. Collectors group it with Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet as the three most prestigious Swiss watch houses.

How old is Vacheron Constantin?

It was founded in Geneva in 1755 and is generally described as the oldest watch manufacture in continuous operation.

The Overseas, the brand's steel sports watch with an integrated bracelet. We have 62 in stock.

What is the cheapest way into Vacheron Constantin?

Usually a FiftySix or a pre-owned Patrimony. Our Vacheron Constantin watches start at $4,840.

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