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Thread: Vacheron Constantin Photo Thread

  1. #1
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Vacheron Constantin Photo Thread

    I know there are a fair few Vacherons on the forum, but in relative terms we don't see many of them. I thought it might be nice to start a photo thread for the brand, though, as IMO they're real lookers.

    Mine is a 1st generation Overseas 49140 from 2001. Launched in 1999 and in production until 2004, this was Vacheron’s first sports chronograph. It was made in about 500 pieces in yellow gold and a bit over 2000 in steel; this reference used the Frederic Piguet 1185 as the base for what became the VC automatic calibre 1137, although when Vacheron were finished with it, well... it looked quite beautiful (albeit that you can’t see the damned thing!). In its revised form it also sported the large date, one of the things for which the brand would become known.





    Just to add, I still have a WTB for a 222, if anyone can assist!
    Last edited by learningtofly; 1st April 2021 at 11:15.

  2. #2
    Master Tony-GB's Avatar
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    These are gorgeous watches and your photo does it justice Tony. Glorious!

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    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Tony-GB View Post
    These are gorgeous watches and your photo does it justice Tony. Glorious!
    Thanks, Tony. It's actually one of those watches that's nicer in the metal than any photo can demonstrate. I'm certainly relieved that I chose this one to keep of the two white-dialled chronos I had.

    Hopefully we'll see some more examples of this lovely brand.

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    The 4500V I bought at the end of last year, most versatile watch I own due to the quick change on the bracelet or strap. Wears really well, feels like a high end watch and has the most unbelievable dial, changes colour depending on light and angles like nothing I’ve seen before.

    18 months until my 40th, where I was convinced I was going to get a dress PP, I’m now seriously considering a VC, alongside the AP Code


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    Grand Master MartynJC (UK)'s Avatar
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    I guess I’d better share a couple of pics. This is the latest generation overseas with blue sunburst dial. 4500V with the in-house geneve seal Cal 5100 - and superb 3 bracelet/ clasp system included with the hallmark Maltese Cross motif.

    antimagnetic but still open case and 150m wrt. What more do you want?

    Pete I see you have one too!

    Couple of pictures





    Martyn.
    Last edited by MartynJC (UK); 4th April 2020 at 18:21.

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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Thanks, Tony. It's actually one of those watches that's nicer in the metal than any photo can demonstrate. I'm certainly relieved that I chose this one to keep of the two white-dialled chronos I had.

    Hopefully we'll see some more examples of this lovely brand.
    Your watch is a stunner Tony and your comment about being nicer in the metal is certainly true of VC’s in general I’d say. When Martyn did an incoming of his blue overseas I was extremely impressed. I found myself spending a lot of time looking at various VC’s and eventually I had ‘mentally’ decided I wanted an overseas chrono in blue, which was to be my 50th present to myself. The fact that I’d never spent 25k on a single watch was the stumbling block - could I, would I?

    Not having seen one in the flesh, I wouldn’t have taken the risk. Also I’ve just recently bought two watches and I’d want to sell at least two, if not three to justify something as grand as this. I think I could have let three go as with the three straps it kind of covers it. Which 3 though? I did make a tentative enquiry as to the value of my hulk (11k at the time) for number crunching purchases.

    Fast forward a few weeks and I’m in St Maarten which happens to have a shop with both a Patek and VC dealership. (I’d researched beforehand and they’ve been around for years). Incredibly they have a blue overseas chrono. It is totally stunning in the flesh, in fact it makes their website pictures look quite poor in comparison. I guess that sunburst blue is difficult to capture on film.

    At the time the virus situation was growing, there were rumours of the ship we were on being grounded, you only have a few hours in a port, you have VAT issues on return and I hadn’t sold any of my watches. He offered it to me for around £19,000 if I paid by bank transfer or £22,000 on a credit card which seemed odd to be honest. Too many negatives for me - right decision as the cruise is then cancelled, we’re isolated at sea for 10 days and we get back to lockdown here.

    Since then everything has changed. Who knows how things will go and whether I ever get one.

    Again, stunning watch Tony and great thread idea. Stephen

  7. #7
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Devonian View Post
    Your watch is a stunner Tony and your comment about being nicer in the metal is certainly true of VC’s in general I’d say. When Martyn did an incoming of his blue overseas I was extremely impressed. I found myself spending a lot of time looking at various VC’s and eventually I had ‘mentally’ decided I wanted an overseas chrono in blue, which was to be my 50th present to myself. The fact that I’d never spent 25k on a single watch was the stumbling block - could I, would I?

    Not having seen one in the flesh, I wouldn’t have taken the risk. Also I’ve just recently bought two watches and I’d want to sell at least two, if not three to justify something as grand as this. I think I could have let three go as with the three straps it kind of covers it. Which 3 though? I did make a tentative enquiry as to the value of my hulk (11k at the time) for number crunching purchases.

    Fast forward a few weeks and I’m in St Maarten which happens to have a shop with both a Patek and VC dealership. (I’d researched beforehand and they’ve been around for years). Incredibly they have a blue overseas chrono. It is totally stunning in the flesh, in fact it makes their website pictures look quite poor in comparison. I guess that sunburst blue is difficult to capture on film.

    At the time the virus situation was growing, there were rumours of the ship we were on being grounded, you only have a few hours in a port, you have VAT issues on return and I hadn’t sold any of my watches. He offered it to me for around £19,000 if I paid by bank transfer or £22,000 on a credit card which seemed odd to be honest. Too many negatives for me - right decision as the cruise is then cancelled, we’re isolated at sea for 10 days and we get back to lockdown here.

    Since then everything has changed. Who knows how things will go and whether I ever get one.

    Again, stunning watch Tony and great thread idea. Stephen
    Oooh... so near but so far. At least you got home safely, mate!

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    Quote Originally Posted by MartynJC (UK) View Post
    I guess I’d better share a couple of pics. This is the latest generation overseas with blue sunburst dial. 4500V with the in-house geneve seal Cal 5100 - and superb 3 bracelet/ clasp system included with the hallmark Maltese Cross motif.

    antimagnetic but still open case and 150m wrt. What more do you want?

    Pete I see you have one too!

    Couple of pictures





    Martyn.
    Right...need to get myself bc a decent camera...that pic of the case back is incredible!

    It was your write up, combined with Chisholm Hunter opening a flagship store in the Argyll Arcade that I ended up with this magnificent watch, thanks again!

    Pete


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    Here’s mine, from the same vintage as LTF’s Chrono, the 42042 1st Gen Overseas. The dial has a lovely subtle grey sunburst, which the photos don’t capture. They measure 37mm and are very thin, using VC’s reworked and improved GP ebauche. There are two other similar references, which are smaller, and a quartz.







    And one I picked up for my partner, the ladies model of the 222:





    Would love to add a VC dress watch one day.
    Last edited by Itsguy; 4th April 2020 at 18:48.

  10. #10
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Itsguy View Post
    Here’s mine, from the same vintage as LTF’s Chrono, the 42042 1st Gen Overseas. The dial has a lovely subtle grey sunburst, which the photos don’t capture. They measure 37mm and are very thin, using VC’s reworked and improved GP ebauche. There are two other similar references, which are smaller, and a quartz.





    And one I picked up for my partner, the ladies model of the 222:





    Would love to add a VC dress watch one day.
    Beautiful, but I can’t believe your other half has a 222. I’ve had a WTB for one for a while now but don’t hold out much hope.

  11. #11
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    These are popular on this thread and for a reason! I’ve had many of the most obvious trinity steels except a vc and wow this doesn’t disappoint. Feels as high end as it is, and that dial. Black to blue and shades between.




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    Master Caruso's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Why anyone would buy a Daytona over one of these is one of WISdom's great mysteries.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Caruso View Post
    Why anyone would buy a Daytona over one of these is one of WISdom's great mysteries.
    Have to say I agree with this. A couple of years back I was lucky enough to get to try one the same as Tonys, it was pre owned at the local AD and I was actually in to pick something else up, if I hadn't been I would have left with the VC. Everything about it was quality and, for me, a Daytona doesn't even come close.

    Would also add the 47040 that Marcel had for sale earlier this year, I wish I had inquired about it, also a stunning watch.
    Last edited by Nev; 4th April 2020 at 19:36.

  14. #14
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Caruso View Post
    Why anyone would buy a Daytona over one of these is one of WISdom's great mysteries.
    Quote Originally Posted by Nev View Post
    Have to say I agree with this. A couple of years back I was lucky enough to get to try one the same as Tonys, it was pre owned at the local AD and I was actually in to pick something else up, if I hadn't been I would have left with the VC. Everything about it was quality and, for me, a Daytona doesn't even come close.
    Hard not to agree, given that I sold a Daytona and kept this. That said, I think dismissing the Daytona without regard for its very real quality is a mistake made by too many.

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    My 42040. Wearing this a little more lately and appreciating its excellence. My only watch on bracelet.



    the host images


    [url=https://postimages.org/]anonymous image hosting[/url

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    New as I am to this, VC was not a brand I was aware of. But good lord they are things of beauty. Thanks for the pics everyone.

  17. #17
    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Hard not to agree, given that I sold a Daytona and kept this. That said, I think dismissing the Daytona without regard for its very real quality is a mistake made by too many.
    People dismiss the Daytona too often, it's still a cracking watch. The VC is different, I guess it doesn't have that same baggage attached to it.

    As for VC - not owned, but I have a few I'd like to try. The blue time/date overseas is certainly on my radar. As are a few others.

    A note on the blue overseas - it comes from the same dial manufacturer that makes the FP Journe Chronomtre Bleu. Rumour has it the process to make the VC blue is exactly the same. So it most certainly comes with predigree!

  18. #18
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    Even if this was available to buy, I could not afford it. Doesn’t stop me wanting it though...



    https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/th...orn-on-everest

    Dave

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    Owned my second generation for around a year and had to go to make way for something else.

    Loved the bracelet and dial, and having owned an Aquanaut, I would say it is step up from that.







    Last edited by mtagrant; 5th April 2020 at 00:34.

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    Quote Originally Posted by MartynJC (UK) View Post
    That balance jewel spring is making my teeth itch...

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    Class is permanent.


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    I think the second generation is the pick of the bunch personally.

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    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Sunday morning porn...

    Last edited by learningtofly; 6th April 2020 at 14:24.

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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Sunday morning porn...


    Yeah you could actually be prosecuted under the Obscene Communications Act (2003) for that.

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    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Jari37 View Post
    Yeah you could actually be prosecuted under the Obscene Communications Act (2003) for that.

  26. #26
    Quote Originally Posted by 893bet View Post
    I think the second generation is the pick of the bunch personally.
    I agree - there is a certain refinement in the current generation, the dial colouring is better for instance, but in terms of design, the second is ace.

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    Wish I could join in :-(

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    Journeyman Kelv_w's Avatar
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    Here's my FiftySix









    and my Traditionelle, no new pics yet

    Last edited by Kelv_w; 6th April 2020 at 11:29.

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    That dial...takes it beyond PP and AP in my view for dress watches. The Fifty-Six was my other option when I bought the Overseas, beautiful watch, couldn’t believe how light it was on


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  30. #30
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelv_w View Post
    Here's my FiftySix

    and my Traditionelle, no new pics yet
    Two beautiful watches!!! Always loved the Fiftysix Complete Calendar.


    Last edited by learningtofly; 6th April 2020 at 13:31.

  31. #31
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    My 42042




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    Quote Originally Posted by mtagrant View Post
    Owned my second generation for around a year and had to go to make way for something else.

    Loved the bracelet and dial, and having owned an Aquanaut, I would say it is step up from that.
    I have a second gen dual time on steel. Totally agree, the bracelet and dial are absolutely top notch

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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Two beautiful watches!!! Always loved the Fiftysix Complete Calendar.


    Stunning watch but sadly the FiftySix watches are just too small for me....One of the nicest watches i have seen though.

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    Mine is an oldie. A yellow gold reference 6394, dated by the archive to 1960. It has a hand engraved linen pattern around the bezel, which is sadly often polished out on this model, and inside sits the self-winding calibre 1071 with Geneva seal.


  35. #35
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Joppers View Post
    Mine is an oldie. A yellow gold reference 6394, dated by the archive to 1960. It has a hand engraved linen pattern around the bezel, which is sadly often polished out on this model, and inside sits the self-winding calibre 1071 with Geneva seal.

    Gorgeous - my birth year, too

  36. #36
    Quote Originally Posted by Kelv_w View Post
    Here's my FiftySix







    and my Traditionelle, no new pics yet
    A lot of underrated VCs out there. I also like their Day/date model, a very nice layout.

    What traditionelle did u get?

  37. #37
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    Quote Originally Posted by Joppers View Post
    Mine is an oldie. A yellow gold reference 6394, dated by the archive to 1960. It has a hand engraved linen pattern around the bezel, which is sadly often polished out on this model, and inside sits the self-winding calibre 1071 with Geneva seal.

    That is exceptionally pretty.


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  38. #38
    Master cirotti's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Joppers View Post
    Mine is an oldie. A yellow gold reference 6394, dated by the archive to 1960. It has a hand engraved linen pattern around the bezel, which is sadly often polished out on this model, and inside sits the self-winding calibre 1071 with Geneva seal.


    Wow!!!..a round of applause!!!

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    Master Thom4711's Avatar
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    Go on, then, I'll play. Think I'm in the minority for preferring the overseas on the bracelet.



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    Journeyman Kelv_w's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by crazyp View Post
    A lot of underrated VCs out there. I also like their Day/date model, a very nice layout.

    What traditionelle did u get?
    Not sure if you could see the photo I posted earlier. I bought the Traditionelle Manual Wind boutique edition, it has the guilloche dial.

  41. #41
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    Some fine pictures posted. I’ve always liked VC Overseas and in particular the 2nd generation Overseas Deep Stream Titanium with the grey face.
    Last edited by neebsta; 7th April 2020 at 10:41.

  42. #42
    Quote Originally Posted by Kelv_w View Post
    Not sure if you could see the photo I posted earlier. I bought the Traditionelle Manual Wind boutique edition, it has the guilloche dial.
    aha, for some reason i missed it beforehand! Very nice

    Quote Originally Posted by neebsta View Post
    Some fine pictures posted. I’ve always liked VC Overseas and in particular the 2nd generation Overseas Deep Stream Titanium Deep Stream with the grey face.
    I also have a soft spot for that version.

  43. #43
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Superb base back on the gen 1 overseas (and I think on the gen 2 as well) - it's actually a really solid watch with a fair bit of heft.


  44. #44
    Craftsman SteveM112's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Caruso View Post
    Why anyone would buy a Daytona over one of these is one of WISdom's great mysteries.
    Pretty much my favourite piece that I do not currently own.
    For me the 1st generation with the White dial is just about as good as it gets.
    Never actually had the opportunity to hold or try one over the years
    plenty of later versions which for me just don’t compare
    but there is nothing about this generation that I do not like..


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  45. #45
    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    Superb base back on the gen 1 overseas (and I think on the gen 2 as well) - it's actually a really solid watch with a fair bit of heft.

    The bracelet on these always looks very thick to me, how comfortable are they to wear?

    Is there much give to adjust the bracelet?

  46. #46
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    Quote Originally Posted by Thom4711 View Post
    Go on, then, I'll play. Think I'm in the minority for preferring the overseas on the bracelet.


    Amazing. Hoping for these to drop to around the 12k mark so I can get my hands on one

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  47. #47
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    Quote Originally Posted by robert75 View Post
    The bracelet on these always looks very thick to me, how comfortable are they to wear?

    Is there much give to adjust the bracelet?
    These are very comfortable watches indeed, unless you have very hairy arms as I've heard the bracelet can trap hairs. The bracelet is not unusually thick or heavy - I think you may be misjudging its thickness as the watch itself is very thin.

    I'm not quite sure what you mean by 'much give to adjust the bracelet', is that a typo? Either way, it comes with half links.

  48. #48
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    Bracelet isn’t heavy, wears really well and is nothing like an AP bracelet and probably lighter than the bracelet on my Milgauss as a comparison

    The current version comes with a micro-adjustment on the bracelet as well, just need to pull the bracelet either side of the clasp and it gives probably 2mm, very clever design


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  49. #49
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by robert75 View Post
    The bracelet on these always looks very thick to me, how comfortable are they to wear?

    Is there much give to adjust the bracelet?
    The bracelet is solid but beautifully engineered and very comfortable. It has a butterfly clasp, though, so no adjustment (at least, not on the older models). It comes with half-links but I've never needed to bother, having just accepted that it feels a bit tighter in hot weather.
    Last edited by learningtofly; 7th April 2020 at 12:22.

  50. #50
    Quote Originally Posted by Itsguy View Post
    These are very comfortable watches indeed, unless you have very hairy arms as I've heard the bracelet can trap hairs. The bracelet is not unusually thick or heavy - I think you may be misjudging its thickness as the watch itself is very thin.

    I'm not quite sure what you mean by 'much give to adjust the bracelet', is that a typo? Either way, it comes with half links.
    Sorry about the "much give" I meant micro adjustment on the clasp.

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