Vacheron Constantin Overseas 47040/B01A-9094

Overseas Automatic 47040/B01A-9094 c. 2012 Box

The Overseas is Vacheron Constantin's take on a stainless steel luxury sports watch. Designed by a young Jorg Hysek and released in 1977 (shortly after Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak in 1972 and Patek Philippe's Nautilus in 1976), it stood in stark contrast against the brand's mainstay, which was then (and arguably still is now) thin dress watches rendered in precious metal. The watch was then discontinued, until it was resurrected in 1996 as the modern Overseas collection. Unlike Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin drew from its heritage and included the Maltese cross motif both on the bezel and bracelet. This created an arguably more complex and nuanced design which perfectly encapsulates the inherent contradictions between a 'Holy Trinity' watchmaker and the humble stainless steel sports watch. The "Military Dial" variants feature bolder design features and more lume, including on the markers as well as the sword hands. It gives the watch an even sportier feel.