The brand Vacheron Constantin was founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron and is often cited as the oldest watch brand. Had it not been for François-Constantin (1788-1854) the brand may have not reached its true potential, he implemented the famous saying “Faire mieux si possible, ce qui est toujours possible” (Do better if possible, and that is always possible). 

In light of the brand’s 222 year anniversary, Vacheron Constantin introduced the iconic reference 222. The watch featured the aesthetic and technical attributes of sports watches and guaranteed water-resistance of up to 120 meters. Since then Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to sports watches has been somewhat inconsistent, right up until 2016. This marked the first time Vacheron dedicated specific calibres to this collection. 

Originally released in 2016 this ref. 5500V/110A-B148 housed the new in-house calibre 5200. The case measures 42.5mm and 13.70mm in thickness. The case and bracelet feature brushed and polished facets paying tribute to the original ref. 222. The overall set is rather remarkable, the watch is sold with two straps, one in rubber and the other in crocodile, and a full stainless steel bracelet. Other brands would simply create three references and not offer such interchangeability, additionally, the changing system is user-friendly. 

The vibrant blue lacquer dial is thought to be rather complicated to produce. The dial is signed Vacheron Constantin – Geneva at 12 o’clock. The recessed sub dials feature delicate guilloche and matt finished blue. Both sub-dials found at 3 and 6 o’clock are dedicated to the chronograph, whereas the other found at 9 o’clock is used for the ordinary 60 sweeping seconds. The hour a minute hands feature luminova. 

This particular reference is powered by calibre 5200 and features the Poinçon de Genève. Made of 236 components, it features a column-wheel mechanism, a vertical clutch coupling system, and a power reserve of 52 hours. The open sapphire caseback displays Vacheron’s high standards of finishing and the addition of the finely decorated 22k yellow gold rotor. 

Brand: Vacheron Constantin
Model: 5500V/110A-B148
Movement: 5200
Case Diameter: 42.5mm
Year: 2021
Box & Papers: Full Set, Box & Papers

The brand Vacheron Constantin was founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron and is often cited as the oldest watch brand. Had it not been for François-Constantin (1788-1854) the brand may have not reached its true potential, he implemented the famous saying “Faire mieux si possible, ce qui est toujours possible” (Do better if possible, and that is always possible).