Vacheron Constantin: The History

The tradition of Vacheron watches was started by 24-year-old watchmaker Jean-Marc Vacheron in 1755 in the Vallée de Joux outside of Geneva. At this time, he gathered basic materials and created a true timekeeping masterpiece. Then in 1785, Vacheron’s son, Abraham, took over the watchmaking business during the French Revolution. Until 1817, the workshop was run entirely by the family, and then French businessman Francois Constantin brought expansion ideas to the Vacherons. Soon afterward, the brand adopted both family names.

A Prosperous Partnership

After Vacheron Constantin became the official name of the manufacture, the iconic Maltese Cross logo quickly caught the attention of many, serving as a recognizable symbol of superior quality, craftsmanship, and precision. Throughout the French Revolution and both World Wars, Vacheron Constantin watches remained a favorite among princes and kings, and expanded into new markets in the U.S. and South America. Even today, the brand's legacy continues, and every piece created still undergoes careful scrutiny by the Geneva office to make sure that the watch’s quality meets the requirements to receive the Hallmark of Geneva seal of approval. Today, Vacheron Constantin is known as part of the “Holy Trinity” of watch brands alongside Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet .

Explore Vacheron Constantin Models

From its beginnings in the 18th century, Vacheron Constantin introduced compelling complications and fascinating functions that shaped the world of luxury timepieces for good. Today, the brand is recognized for its technical skill in creating perpetual calendars, moon phase displays, and the gravity-defying tourbillon to name a few. Learn more about a handful of its most notable timepieces including the infamous Overseas.

Overseas

The Phase 1 Vacheron Constantin Overseas was released in 1996 as a descendant of their iconic 222 model. This casual yet elegant statement watch features an integrated bracelet design, tonneau-shaped case, and all the functionality of a robust sports piece. Due to its fame and praise, it’s available in several styles and limited editions today. For example, watch this expert review of the Overseas Automatic Deep Stream to see a model up close, or discover this Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive ref. 2000V/120G-B122 featuring a 18k white gold case and mesmerizing gray dial. Interested in chronograph iterations? Read this review of the Vacheron Overseas Chronograph, as well as this one discussing the Overseas Chronometer in a decadent 18k yellow gold.
Patrimony

If you’re looking for an elegant model that offers a wide range of complications, functions, and material options, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony is a great collection to explore. To start, various references include minute repeaters, perpetual calendars, and a moon phase retrograde date. Discover this pre-owned Patrimony Perpetual Calendar ref. 49005/000P-7622 for a sleek white dial timepiece, or this handsome ref. 8118/0000R-B518 with a 18k rose gold case and striking blue dial.
Historiques

To pay tribute to their centuries-old tradition in excellence, Vacheron Constantin created the Historiques collection to provide contemporary reinterpretations of some of their most infamous models. Find breathtaking pieces like this Historiques Ultra-Fine piece with a square rose gold case, or this "Cornes de Vache 1955" model in our pre-owned suite.
Other Noteworthy Models

With a brand that is centuries old, it’s no surprise that they’ve released several watches and collections over the years — ones that are no longer easy to come by on the market. For example, discover this pre-owned Saltarello Jump Hour timepiece for a rare find, or watch this video about the Vacheron Constantin Toledo 1952 model.

Vacheron Constantin: The History

A Prosperous Partnership

Explore Vacheron Constantin Models

Overseas

Patrimony

Historiques

Other Noteworthy Models

Pre-Owned Vacheron Constantin Phidias