Two years ago Vacheron Constantin created a prototype of an Overseas Dual Time for American mountaineer Cory Richards, who then scaled Mount Everest with the watch. An unusual combination of titanium and tantalum, the prototype was a hit, and soon after sold for just over US$106,000 at auction, with the proceeds going to the National Geographic Society.

Its popularity meant Vacheron Constantin (VC) would inevitably put the watch into serial production one way or another. And it has done so – in two versions – with the Overseas “Everest” Chronograph ref. 5510V and Overseas “Everest” Dual Time ref. 7910V.

The Everest Chronograph on Mr Richards

Initial thoughts

I was a fan of the Cory Richards prototype for two reasons. It was intrinsically good looking, in both design and colours, but at the same time it felt original and less similar to other luxury-sports watches.

I like the fact that VC translated the prototype into production models without losing the distinctive look and feel. Although the prototype was clearly an Overseas, it had an entirely different case with guards for both the crown and pusher, a feature that has been reproduced on the limited editions. In other words, the Everest editions are not merely the standard models with a new dial.

The prototype made for Cory Richards’ ascent of Everest in 2019

The new limited editions both look equally good, though the chronograph is more appealing because of its proportions. It is wider and slightly thicker, giving it a more substantial form that suits a sports watch. And the chronograph has more orange on the dial by virtue of having more hands, which enhances the look.

That said, I wish VC had gone with the case metal combination of the prototype – titanium with a tantalum bezel – instead of the titanium and steel mix. It’s a missed opportunity to do something different amidst a sea of sports watches in steel. Still, the Everest editions are mostly titanium, which is still relatively uncommon.

The Everest Dual Time

Compared to the equivalent standard model, the Overseas Everest is about 15% pricier in either iteration, which isn’t too bad considering the case is entirely new. It’s not an exact comparison since the standard model in steel is delivered on a bracelet, but the premium is unquestionably worth it.

In fact, the issue isn’t so much affordability as it is attainability. Given the frenzied demand for luxury-sports watches – several of the regular-production Overseas models have long waiting lists – the Everest editions will be hot sellers.

Everest

Both Everest editions have the same dimensions as the equivalent standard models, but the cases have guards on the right flank for the crown and pushers. The standard models, in contrast, have streamlined case flanks with the crown and pushers sitting on the case sides.

The Everest editions are primarily titanium, finished three ways: the case and back are in alternating brushed and polished titanium, while the bezel, crown, and pusher rings are sandblasted titanium, resulting in a two-tone appearance. The only component that’s steel is the flat ring in between the bezel and case.

Though novel, the steel-and-titanium mix has been used by VC in the earlier generation of Overseas from 2009, albeit in a different configuration, so it’s a historical throwback of sorts.

The grey dials have a granular, stamped finish, matched with hands and markers in a glossy dark grey, though they are all solid, 18k gold that’s been coated.

Mechanically, both Everest editions are unchanged from the standard versions, though the movements are dressed differently. The bridges and base plates have been coated in NAC, resulting in a dark grey finish. And the 22k gold rotor bears a relief depiction of Mount Everest based on one of Mr Richard’s photographs of the mountain.

And as is standard for the Overseas, the Everest editions are delivered on a variety of straps, although not a bracelet. Both models are accompanied by a grey Cordura fabric strap that matches the dial, as well as a textured rubber strap.

However, according to VC, the steel bracelet found on the standard Overseas will fit, and is available to purchase separately, though it won’t be an exact match given the material.

Key facts and price

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Overseas Dual Time “Everest”
Ref. 7910V/000T-B922

Diameter: 41 mm
Height: 12.8 mm
Material: Titanium with steel bezel ring
Water resistance: 150 m

Movement: Cal. 5110 DT/2
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, second time zone with day and night indicator
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Grey Cordura fabric with folding clasp, additional strap in grey rubber

Limited edition: 150 pieces
Availability: Now at Vacheron Constantin boutiques
Price: US$31,300; or 44,900 Singapore dollars

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Overseas Chronograph “Everest”
Ref. 5510V/000T-B923

Diameter: 42.5 mm
Height: 13.7 mm
Material: Titanium with steel bezel ring
Water resistance: 150 m

Movement: Cal. 5200/2
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, and chronograph
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 52 hours

Strap: Grey Cordura fabric with folding clasp, additional strap in grey rubber

Limited edition: 150 pieces
Availability: Now at Vacheron Constantin boutiques
Price: US$37,000; or 53,500 Singapore dollars

For more information, visit Vacheron-constantin.com.

Correction September 21, 2021: The case and case back are titanium, and not steel as indicated in an earlier version of the article.