Cover Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 in 37mm steel
Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 in 37mm steel
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Vacheron Constantin marks its 270th anniversary with a year-long celebration, beginning with the launch of a new Historiques 222 in steel
For almost three centuries, Vacheron Constantin has maintained an unwavering commitment to watchmaking excellence, consistently innovating and breaking new ground. As one of the oldest watch manufactures, it has rightfully earned a reputation as a pioneering force, setting the gold standard for the industry.
To commemorate its 270th anniversary, Vacheron Constantin is poised to showcase its immense talent, spanning micro-mechanical engineering to artistic design, with a series of collectible timepieces. It begins with the iconic Historiques 222, which was a departure from the sports watch conventions of the time.
Read more: Reviving iconic watch designs from the past
Above The original Historiques 222 designed by Jörg Hysek
The original Historiques 222 designed by Jörg Hysek
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Designed by the then 24-year-old Jörg Hysek (who would later establish his eponymous brand, known for its Kilada collection), the original featured a monoblock case with a fluted bezel, screwed down for sea-worthy water resistance. Its slim proportions housed the ultra-slim Calibre 1120, one of the world’s thinnest automatic movements with a full rotor at the time. Complete with an integrated bracelet, its robust construction but elegant appearance blurred the line between formality and sportiness.
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Above The new Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 with a blue dial
The new Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 with a blue dial
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The latest edition retains the 37mm steel case, now with a blue dial. The Maltese Cross logo appears on both the dial and case, positioned at five o’clock. The date window has been repositioned inward so that it doesn’t encroach on the minute track. The lume on the hands and hour markers mirrors the hues of tritium found in historical timepieces, glowing off-white by day and lime green by night. The bracelet is now more ergonomic, with the pins holding the joints concealed, and it features a triple-blade clasp for added security.
Above Calibre 2455/2 with a rotor engraved with the original 222 logo
Calibre 2455/2 with a rotor engraved with the original 222 logo
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The new Historiques 222 is powered by the in-house Calibre 2455/2, with the oscillating weight engraved with the original 222 logo. This ultra-thin movement boasts a frequency of 4Hz, compared to the original’s 2.75Hz, offering enhanced precision.
Asked why the Historiques 222 was chosen to launch the anniversary celebrations, style and heritage director Christian Selmoni said: “The 222 is a legendary timepiece, greatly appreciated by collectors, because its initial production run in the late 1970s was very limited.”
Indeed, fewer than 1,000 steel pieces were produced. “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 the 270th anniversary with this iconic timepiece—one that is vintage yet resolutely contemporary—the maison is weaving past and present together,” he added.
Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
