- Vacheron Constantin celebrates 270 years of innovation and technical excellence.
- They are often considered among the “holy trinity” of sports watches.
- The Historiques 222 is a simple icon in the Vacheron catalogue.
Vacheron Constantin may be the most caring partner one could hope for. The Swiss luxury watchmaker never misses an opportunity to celebrate anniversaries, celebrating each new decade since the turn of the century with enviable editions that honor its 270-year history with… manufacturing Confidence and elegance in signature.
Now, in 2025, a lost icon from the 1970s catalog is enjoying a contemporary reissue – one that refines an acclaimed group for today’s discerning tastes.
Vacheron Constantin 222 history
They are often considered among the “holy trinity” of sports watches High-end watchesthe History 222 It stands alongside Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe to define the era of elegant and contemporary offerings in this popular market. First unveiled in 1977 to celebrate the company’s 222nd anniversary, the 222 quickly earned its iconic status.
Naturally, it shares the same lineage as the Royal Oak and Nautilus, legendary releases in the sports watch market. But the 222, designed by 24-year-old Jörg Heysek, stood out for its distinctive design elements and technical specifications such as the lofty frame and upper case. It was a departure from the classic sports iterations he designed Gerald Gentathe man behind the famous Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe collections.
Although it enjoyed only a short production run, with only a few thousand reportedly reaching collectors at the time, it laid the foundation for the Vacheron Constantin Overseas collection, which debuted in 1996. This newer line borrowed heavily from the 222 design, transforming it into the Maison’s leading modern sports watches.
In 2022, Vacheron Constantin pays homage to this iconic model by launching the Historiques 222, which closely reflects the original design, but is available exclusively in 18K yellow gold. Vacheron collectors have been left wondering if the Swiss Maison Jumbo will never bring back a more versatile material to suit contemporary tastes.
Vacheron Constantin revives an icon
The 2025 edition remains faithful to the original, with a sleek 37mm case, integrated bracelet and fluted bezel, all of which have been faithfully retained in the 2022 gold re-edition. However, today’s announcement reveals a contemporary classic now available in brushed and satin-coated stainless steel .
Where the 2022 model catered to a more exclusive clientele, with the exception of old money in the watch category known for its sporty elegance, this latest edition of Vacheron’s Historiques 222 will undoubtedly combine Similar to the situation Design suitable for formal occasions, with the everyday characteristics of a classic sports watch.
On the wrist, it’s naturally lighter than its yellow gold counterpart, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything less than luxurious. The 222’s matte blue dial contrasts perfectly with the stainless steel bezel, reminiscent of the Overseas reissue seen during last year’s Watches & Wonders show in Geneva.
It is a classic expression backed by the Swiss brand and is priced at AU$53,500, available exclusively at Vacheron Constantin boutiques, which is half the price of its yellow gold counterpart. But this contemporary piece fully embodies the inherent charm that characterized its predecessor’s 1977 debut.
