Vacheron Constantin Overseas 1st series

Description

• Sporty Elegance

With the reference 42042, Vacheron Constantin offered, in the late 1990s, its own reinterpretation of the integrated luxury sports watch, directly descended from the legendary 222 model launched in 1977. Produced between 1996 and 2004, this first generation of the Overseas collection came in two sizes: 35 and 37 mm.

This particular version, the 42042/423A, combines the 37 mm case with a matte black dial featuring luminous Arabic numerals, a design choice that is both highly legible and subtly refined, giving the watch a distinct military character despite its Grande Maison pedigree. The bezel subtly echoes the Maltese cross, Vacheron Constantin’s emblematic motif. The screw-down caseback is engraved with the Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy’s training ship, and a fitting symbol of the Overseas line’s spirit of travel and adventure.

Mechanically, the 42042 marks the transition from calibre 1310 to the upgraded 1311, both based on the Girard-Perregaux 3100 ébauche. COSC-certified, ultra-thin (approximately 3 mm), self-winding, with quick-set date, hacking seconds, a 46-hour power reserve and 150-meter water resistance, this movement embodies both precision and durability. The 1310-to-1311 evolution occurred early in the production run, without any visible changes to the case.

The integrated steel bracelet, composed of "brick-style" links, offers remarkable comfort and a refined finish with both external and internal anglage. The original folding clasp features a sliding lock mechanism and butterfly closure, combining functionality with elegance.

This example is presented in excellent condition and comes with its full original set. The 42042/423A reference, uniting the authenticity of a founding generation with timeless elegance, remains a discreet yet deeply representative icon of Vacheron Constantin’s vision for the 1990s.