Vacheron Constantin, a name synonymous with the pinnacle of watchmaking, has a history of 270 years that dates back to 1755. Founded in Geneva by Jean-Marc Vacheron, the company began as a small workshop, but it quickly established a reputation for producing timepieces of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Over the centuries,
Vacheron Constantin has maintained an unbroken legacy, passing down its expertise and dedication to excellence through generations of skilled artisans. This commitment to tradition and innovation has solidified Vacheron Constantin's place as one of the most respected and revered watchmakers in the world. The Maison's longevity is a testament to the passion, expertise, and creativity of the men and women who have shaped its identity. This legacy is embodied in every timepiece they create, striking a balance between technical mastery and artistic sensitivity.
Throughout its history, Vacheron Constantin has consistently pushed the boundaries of horology. From pioneering the first complications to developing movements of unparalleled precision, the Maison has been at the forefront of watchmaking innovation. This dedication to advancing the art and science of timekeeping is evident in their impressive portfolio of patents and groundbreaking achievements. They have always been known for marking each decade by honoring its heritage, looking to the future and issuing a number of exceptional timepieces. As an example, the Maison marked its 250th anniversary with the Tour de l'Île, featuring what was – at the time – an unprecedented combination of 16 complications. Celebrating the following decade, the Reference 57260 took centre stage; with 57 functions, it was the most complicated watch ever made at the time.
Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin
In 2025, Vacheron Constantin celebrates its 270th anniversary, and to mark this significant milestone, they are reissuing one of their most iconic models: the Historiques 222 in stainless steel. This release follows the highly successful 2022 reissue of the 222 in yellow gold, a watch that quickly became a sought-after piece among collectors. The new stainless steel version is a natural progression, bringing a contemporary twist to a classic design while retaining the nostalgic charm that makes the 222 so special. The 222 is a legendary timepiece and is greatly appreciated by collectors – not least because its initial production run in the late 1970s was very limited. The distinctive character of the 222 has made it one of Vacheron Constantin's most recognisable models over the last few decades. By kicking off its 270th anniversary with this iconic timepiece – one that is vintage yet resolutely contemporary – the Maison is weaving past and present together. The original 222, launched in 1977 to commemorate Vacheron Constantin's 222nd anniversary, was a groundbreaking timepiece. Designed by the renowned Jorg Hysek, the 222 marked a significant departure from the prevailing sports watch conventions of the time.
The 1970s were a period of significant change and cultural upheaval, and this was reflected in the world of watch design. The 222 captured this spirit perfectly, with its bold, angular lines and integrated bracelet. It was a watch that exuded confidence and modernity, a perfect representation of the era's aesthetic sensibilities. At the time, sports watches were typically designed for professional use, catering to pilots, divers, and explorers. The 222 broke this mold, introducing a new concept of a luxury sports watch that blended functionality with a sleek, sophisticated design. This innovative approach paved the way for a new genre of timepieces that blurred the lines between formality and sportiness, a trend that continues to influence watch design today.
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The original 222 was a marvel of engineering and design. Its monobloc tonneau-shaped case, measuring 37mm in diameter, was both robust and sporty. The case featured a flat top, topped by a prominent fluted bezel. The case was water-resistant to 120 meters, thanks to its screw-down bezel, a testament to its durability. The integrated bracelet, with its large hexagonal central links, added to the watch's distinctive look, creating a seamless flow from case to bracelet. At 5 o'clock, the case was stamped with a Maltese cross, a subtle yet unmistakable signature of Vacheron Constantin. One of the defining features of the 222 was its exceptional slenderness. Despite its robust construction, the watch was only 7mm thick, thanks to the ultra-thin Calibre 1120 movement. Measuring a mere 3.05mm, the Calibre 1120 was the world's thinnest full-rotor automatic movement at the time. This remarkable feat of engineering allowed the 222 to maintain a sleek profile, adding to its overall. The simple, baton-style hands and hour markers, combined with the large hexagonal links of the bracelet, conveyed an impression of robustness and confident modernity.
The new Historiques 222 stainless steel watch pays homage to the original while incorporating several modern updates. The 37mm stainless steel case retains the iconic tonneau shape and fluted bezel, staying true to the original design. The integrated bracelet, a hallmark of the 222, has been meticulously redesigned for improved comfort and ergonomics. The new bracelet features a triple-blade clasp, replacing the twin-blade clasp of the original, and the joints have been redesigned to conceal visible pins, enhancing the overall sleekness of the design. The bracelet's vertical satin-brushed finish contrasts beautifully with the polished elements, creating a captivating interplay of light. This combination of finishes is a hallmark of Vacheron Constantin's meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every surface of the watch is a visual delight.
Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin
Visually, the Historiques 222 stainless steel watch is a stunning timepiece. The blue dial is the centerpiece, framed by the stainless steel case and fluted bezel. The dial features a matte finish, giving it a subtle, understated look. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, has been shifted slightly towards the center to avoid encroaching on the minute track, a thoughtful design detail that enhances readability. The white gold baton-type hour and minute hands, along with the straight hour markers, are coated with Super-LumiNova, providing excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The Super-LumiNova is off-white during the day and emits a vibrant lime green glow at night, a nod to the tritium used in earlier timepieces. This vintage touch adds to the watch's charm, creating a connection to its historical roots.
The caseback of the Historiques 222 is fitted with a transparent sapphire crystal, allowing a clear view of the in-house Calibre 2455/2 movement. This self-winding movement, slightly smaller in diameter than its predecessor, is a masterpiece of horological engineering. The oscillating weight is engraved with the original 222 logo and edged with a fluted motif reminiscent of the bezel, a beautiful detail that pays tribute to the watch's heritage. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), ensuring enhanced precision, and boasts a 40-hour power reserve. Every component of the movement is finished to the highest standards, reflecting Vacheron Constantin's unwavering commitment to excellence. The caseback bears a signature commemorating Vacheron Constantin’s 270th anniversary. It has been fitted with a transparent sapphire crystal to reveal the automatic in-house Calibre 2455/2. Slightly smaller in diameter than its predecessor, the oscillating weight of this high-precision movement is engraved with the original 222 logo, and edged with notches reminiscent of the bezel.
Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin
The finishing of the Historiques 222 is where Vacheron Constantin's craftsmanship truly shines. The combination of vertical satin brushing and polishing on various elements of the watch, such as the crown, bracelet, and bezel, creates mesmerizing light effects. This meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of the Maison, ensuring that every angle of the watch is a visual delight. The finishing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also showcases the skill and dedication of Vacheron Constantin's artisans. The joints of the bracelet – which is now fastened with a triple-blade rather than a twin-blade clasp – have been redesigned to conceal visible pins, and improved comfort thanks to better ergonomics.
The Historiques 222 stainless steel watch is powered by the Calibre 2455/2, a self-winding movement developed and crafted in-house by Vacheron Constantin. This movement is a testament to the Maison's technical prowess, featuring 194 components and 27 jewels. It operates at a frequency of 4 Hz, or 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring exceptional precision. The movement is equipped with a dedicated 22K 3N yellow gold oscillating weight, engraved with the original 222 logo. The Calibre 2455/2 is certified by the Hallmark of Geneva, a prestigious certification that guarantees the highest standards of quality, craftsmanship, and durability.
The dial of the Historiques 222 is a study in understated. The blue dial with its matte finish provides a perfect backdrop for the white gold hour markers and hands. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is discreet yet easily legible. The vintage font of the "AUTOMATIC" inscription adds a touch of nostalgia, while the Super-LumiNova coating on the hands and hour markers ensures excellent visibility in all lighting conditions. The dial is a harmonious blend of form and function, reflecting Vacheron Constantin's design philosophy.
Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin
The stainless steel bracelet of the Historiques 222 is a key element of its design. The integrated bracelet, with its hexagonal central links, creates a seamless flow from the case to the clasp. The bracelet has been redesigned for improved comfort and ergonomics, with a triple-blade clasp that provides a secure and comfortable fit. The combination of vertical satin brushing and polishing on the bracelet links creates a dynamic interplay of light, adding to the watch's visual appeal. The bracelet is not just a functional component but an integral part of the watch's overall aesthetic. The stainless steel triple-blade folding clasp is also polished with a half Maltese cross-shaped.
The Historiques 222 stainless steel watch is a boutique exclusive, priced at $32,000 excluding tax. This pricing reflects the watch's exclusivity, craftsmanship, and the use of high-quality materials. It is a timepiece that embodies the values of Vacheron Constantin: sophisticated refinement, casual ease, and an uncompromising commitment to the quest for excellence. The watch is available exclusively from Vacheron Constantin boutiques, ensuring a personalized and exclusive purchasing experience.
Case: Stainless steel, 37 mm diameter, 7.95 mm thick, 18K yellow gold Maltese cross placed at 5 o'clock, transparent sapphire crystal caseback, water-resistance tested at a pressure of 5 bar (approx. 50 meters).
Movement: Calibre 2455/2, developed and crafted by Vacheron Constantin, mechanical, self-winding, 22K 3N yellow gold dedicated oscillating weight, approximately 40 hours of power reserve, 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), 194 components, 27 jewels, Hallmark of Geneva certified timepiece.
Dial: Blue, white gold polished Maltese cross applied to the dial, white gold hour-markers and hands highlighted with Super-LumiNova® (off-white during the day and lime green at night).
Strap: Stainless steel, vertical satin finished, stainless steel triple-blade folding clasp, polished half Maltese cross-shaped.
Price: $32,000 Excluding Tax
Reference Number: 4200H/222A-B934
Notes: Boutique exclusive. This is a reissue of the original 222 released in 1977. Celebrating Vacheron Constantin's 270th anniversary.