Previously only available in blue or white, Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas Self-winding and Chronograph have now been endowed with slick, black lacquered dials – a simple but effective face-lift that departs from the original colour palette and results in an undeniably more striking watch.

The Overseas Chronograph is distinguished by a “reverse panda” dial with white counters on black. It’s a fitting look – contrast-colour chronograph sub-dials have long been used on sports watches to improve legibility by clearly separating time-telling and elapsed time measurement.

While “panda” dials have become an overused design element in the retro remake playbook, the watch still appears fresh and modern because it is not a vintage reissue. And its moderately large dimensions – 42.5mm wide and 13.7mm thick – help as well.

Powering the watch is the in-house cal. 5200 that bears the Geneva hallmark. It’s a self-winding, column wheel chronograph movement with a vertical clutch.

The Overseas Self-winding measures 41mm in diameter and is powered by the cal. 5100, which is equipped with two mainspring barrels for a 60-hour power reserve. Its pure black dial makes for a cleaner and appropriately, more stoic appearance.

As is standard with the Overseas collection, both watches come with a set of three bracelets (steel, rubber and leather), which can be swapped on the go with a patented quick-release mechanism. Releasing a catch on the back of the strap quickly detaches it, with the replacement strap easily installed by snapping it on.

Price and Availability

The Overseas Chronograph (ref. 5500V/110A-B481) is priced at US$30,300 or S$44,500, while the Self-winding is priced at US$20,900 or S$30,800.