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Legends Only: Vacheron Constantin Revives The Historiques 222 In Steel
Today, Vacheron Constantin celebrates a monumental milestone—270 years of unparalleled watchmaking excellence. Founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron, this Maison has survived and thrived through centuries of change, embodying a heritage where technical mastery meets artistic sensitivity. This anniversary year is not just a celebration but a reaffirmation of the brand’s commitment to innovation, tradition, and the art of horology.
The festivities commence with unveiling the new Historiques 222 (a personal favorite) in stainless steel, a watch that rekindles the spirit of an icon from 1977. Originally introduced to commemorate the 222nd anniversary of the brand, the Historiques 222 was a bold statement in an era dominated by utilitarian sports watches. Designed by Jorg Hysek, it broke from convention with its sleek, integrated bracelet and a design that captured the zeitgeist of the 1970s—merging sportiness with sophisticated elegance.
The original 222 was notable for its slim profile, thanks to the ultra-thin Calibre 1120, the world’s thinnest full-rotor automatic movement at the time. Its aesthetic was defined by functional simplicity: a flat case topped with a fluted bezel bearing the Maison’s emblematic Maltese cross, and a layout that balanced elegance with robustness.
The 2025 re-edition, affectionately called ‘Jumbo’ by aficionados, maintains this heritage while introducing contemporary enhancements. Encased in a 37 mm stainless steel body, slightly smaller than its predecessor, the watch now features a blue dial that resonates with both nostalgia and modernity. The updated Calibre 2455/2, visible through the transparent sapphire caseback, enhances precision with a higher frequency and maintains the slim silhouette at just 3.6 mm thick. The bracelet’s joints have been refined for comfort, and the clasp has upgraded to a triple-blade design, showcasing Vacheron Constantin’s meticulous attention to detail.
The dial design respects historical elements while embracing modernity. The date window has been subtly repositioned for better readability, and the use of Super-LumiNova® for the hands and markers nods to the luminous allure of historical tritium, glowing lime green at night. This blend of old and new honors the past and pushes forward the boundaries of what a sports watch can be. Christian Selmoni, Vacheron Constantin’s Style & Heritage Director, explains the significance of these anniversary celebrations: “Each decade anniversary allows us to reflect on our history, our values, and to showcase our commitment to both mechanical innovation and aesthetic tradition. The Historiques 222 is not just a watch; it’s a testament to our enduring philosophy.”
The Chief Marketing Officer Alexandra Vogler adds, “The 222 was chosen to launch this year’s celebrations due to its iconic status and the affection it has garnered among collectors. This stainless steel version is the next chapter in its story, bridging generations of watch enthusiasts.” As Vacheron Constantin steps into its 270th year, the Historiques 222 stands as a beacon of the Maison’s timeless appeal, proving that luxury watches can be both a nod to history and a step into the future.
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