Introducing Vacheron Constantin Unveils The Overseas Self-Winding High Jewellery

Vacheron Constantin opens a new chapter for the Overseas Self-Winding 35 mm model, introducing, for the first time, two high-jewellery versions in white gold and pink gold. Originally created in 2023, the 35 mm Overseas case was conceived as a timepiece designed to suit all discerning wrists in any situation. 

Its more streamlined dimensions ensure exceptional comfort while retaining all the aesthetic codes and inherent functionality of its larger Overseas counterparts. The new Overseas Self-Winding 35 mm High Jewellery watch is adorned with a total of 1,430 diamonds (12.58 carats), combining both brilliant and baguette cuts.

The watch’s case exudes refined elegance, crafted in either 18K white gold or 18K 5N pink gold, with a diameter of 35 mm and a thickness of 8.43 mm. The bezel dazzles with 60 baguette-cut diamonds totaling approximately 2.28 carats, highlighting the Maltese cross motif at its center. It is complemented by 98 brilliant-cut diamonds on the case for an additional 1.03 carats, bringing the total sparkle to 3.31 carats. A screwed-down crown ensures secure operation, while the transparent sapphire crystal caseback offers a clear view of the movement within. Water-resistant to 50 metres.

The invisible setting employed in these models is particularly challenging for the gem-setter, creating a seamlessly gem-covered surface on which the stones appear to float above the gold with no visible means of support. First, the artisan constructs a framework of gold rails, only 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm thick, forming a secure hidden grid structure. 

Each diamond is then slotted into this frame, with tiny V-shaped grooves cut along both sides to match the position and dimensions of the rails with a tolerance of just 0.02 mm, ensuring the stones sit flush, with no gaps, overlaps, or visible metal. This meticulous technique is so demanding that it can take several hours to set a single stone.

The dial is a radiant showcase of craftsmanship, fully set with 314 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling approximately 1.65 carats, creating a mesmerizing play of light at every angle. The hour-markers feature 12 baguette-cut diamonds (~0.32 ct), providing a refined contrast to the sparkling backdrop. Hours and minutes are indicated by elegantly shaped hands in 18K white gold or 18K 5N pink gold, enhanced with blue Super-Luminova®, while the date window at 3 o’clock is set against a white background, framed in gold to match the case hue.

Powering these watches is the in-house Calibre 1088/1, an automatic movement featuring a stop-seconds function for precise time-setting. Comprising 144 components, the movement operates at 4 Hz and offers a 40-hour power reserve. Visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, the movement is finely finished with Côtes de Genève decoration, bevelled bridges, and the Overseas collection’s emblematic 22K gold rotor adorned with a compass rose.

The serene beauty of the invisibly set baguette diamonds contrasts elegantly with the multifaceted sparkle of brilliant-cut stones on the dial and bracelet. Both watches come with a diamond-set white or pink gold bracelet and two additional straps: one in white rubber and one in shiny alligator leather.

 The white gold model is paired with a brilliant blue alligator strap, while the pink gold version comes with a fuchsia-coloured alligator strap. Each strap is secured with a pin buckle in 18K white gold or 18K 5N pink gold, set with 62 brilliant-cut diamonds (~0.33 ct), which can also be interchanged to fit another strap. As with all Overseas models, the bracelet, straps, and buckle can be changed quickly and easily without any tools.

For more information visit Vacheron Constantin’s official website.