Steel of Endorsement

In preparation for its 270th anniversary festivities, Vacheron Constantin reintroduces a 1970s steel icon.

In an age where enterprises emerge and dissolve with remarkable rapidity, it is indeed commendable to discover one that has withstood upheavals and afflictions; observed the shift from candlelight to electricity; progressed from horse-drawn carriages to autonomous vehicles; and maintained relevance in an ever-evolving landscape. Vacheron Constantin, one of the oldest continuously operating timepiece companies, will celebrate its 270th anniversary in 2025.

The Geneva-based firm has previously achieved notable anniversaries with exceptional watches that demonstrate its remarkable endurance. In 1955, to commemorate its 200th anniversary, it launched a trio of timepieces driven by the Calibre 1003, establishing them as the thinnest watches of their era at a height of 1.64mm. In 2005, to commemorate its 250th anniversary, it unveiled a collection of horological masterpieces, including the ultra-complicated Tour de l’Ile, featuring an unprecedented amalgamation of 16 complications displayed on a double-sided interface, rendering it the most intricate wristwatch ever manufactured in a series; the record-setting Saint Gervais with a 250-hour power reserve; and the L’Esprit des Cabinotiers – a singular secret clock hidden within an intricately hand-engraved eight-petaled pink gold orb, adorned with a celestial chart crafted by Robert de Vaugondy, the geographer to Louis XV.

The 270th anniversary undoubtedly heralds greater skill and finesse, commencing the celebrations with a tribute to the recent past: the Historiques 222. In an effort to resonate with the cultural trends of the 1970s, characterized by a fascination with luxury sports watches, Vacheron Constantin engaged esteemed watch designer Jorg Hysek to develop the original 222, marking the Maison’s 222nd anniversary.

The original 222 was introduced in stainless steel, with subsequent variations in precious metals. The unusual design features were an integrated bracelet with hexagonal center links, a fluted bezel, and Vacheron Constantin’s hallmark Maltese cross, ingeniously situated at 5 o’clock within the monobloc case. The minimalist dial showcased baton hands and hour markers, while the ultra-thin calibre 1120, at that time the world's thinnest full-rotor automatic movement, powered the watch and included a date display at 3 o'clock.

The model made its inaugural comeback in 2022, presented entirely in yellow gold, preserving the dimensions of the original "Jumbo" while integrating contemporary enhancements. The revised construction replaced the monobloc casing to improve comfort and serviceability, while the proprietary calibre 2455/2 was prominently showcased through a sapphire crystal caseback. Nevertheless, aficionados persisted in yearning for the original steel variant. Their anticipation has concluded.

The new steel Historiques 222 replicates the dimensions and engineering of its golden predecessor, including a refined diameter of 37mm and a height of 7.95mm. The casing features vertical brushing and polished bevels, while the midnight blue dial provides an elegant contrast to the stainless steel. The distinctive yellow gold Maltese cross, located at 5 o’clock on the case side, imparts a refined accent of precious metal.

The 222 is an iconic watch, highly esteemed by collectors, particularly due to its restricted original manufacturing in the late 1970s. The unique attributes of the 222 have rendered it one of Vacheron Constantin’s most recognizable models in recent decades,” states Chief Marketing Officer Alexandra Vogler. “By inaugurating its 270th anniversary with this emblematic timepiece – one that is both vintage and distinctly modern – the Maison is intertwining history and modernity.”