Yet, another great launch at the SIHH 2016 Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie. This time we bring you the brand new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V with its new column-wheel chronograph calibre 5200, developed and crafted by Vacheron Constantin, now with a 42.5 mm diameter case instead of 42 mm on the previous generation. Celebrating 20 years of the launch of this iconic watch, Vacheron Constantin decided to do some redesign and presented five new models within the Overseas collection. As you guys know, we have reviewed the previous generation of the Overseas Chronograph here.

The new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph comes in a stainless steel or 18K pink gold 42.5 mm diameter case. Its screwed-down pushers, crown and case back guarantee a water resistance to 150 meters, while its transparent back reveals a 22K gold oscillating weight adorned with a wind rose.

The new stainless steel models are each delivered with three interchangeable bracelet/straps: a steel bracelet with an easy-fit system, along with rubber and leather straps. The two latter are fitted with an equally interchangeable stainless steel folding clasp.

The pink gold model comes with two straps: one in leather and the other in rubber, both fitted with an interchangeable pink gold folding clasp. The new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph is available with a silver-toned or blue dial sunburst dial for the stainless steel model and silver-toned dial for 18K rose gold one. The new strap/clasp system —very similar to that on the previous generation of IWC Aquatimers— allows the wearer to quickly switch from a bracelet to a rubber strap or a leather nubuck lined strap. Additionally, the system allows for a very rapid clasp change as well.

The new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B148, comes with a matching bracelet that was redesigned in terms of looks and functionality —still maintaining the half maltese cross look but more streamlined/domed and with an adjustable 'easy fit' system that allows the wearer to expand or shorten the bracelet by up to 4 mm as necessary, particularly useful during those warm summer days in places like Hong Kong or New York City.

The Overseas Chronograph watch bearing the Hallmark of Geneva is equipped with Calibre 5200, the new self-winding chronograph movement developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin. The result of a five-year development process, this 263-component calibre is fitted with a column wheel coordinating the chronograph start, stop and reset functions, as well as a vertical coupling clutch preventing any jerking of the hand when the chronograph starts.

A signature feature of new Vacheron Constantin chronographs, the column wheel is adorned with a screw shaped like the Manufacture’s signature Maltese cross emblem. This movement is equipped with a twin barrel enhancing its torque and its reliability while ensuring over 50 hours of power reserve. Protected from magnetic fields by a soft iron ring, it powers the hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph and date indications.

On the wrist, the new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chonograph watch wears true to its actual size but extremely comfortably. Its color scheme allows for a perfect match with any outfit or type of shirt you are wearing. Arguably, this is one of the best sports watches ever made by the 'Holy Trinity of Watchmaking' —conformed by Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin. If one could only have three iconic sports watches from the best watchmakers in the world, this would be one of them along with the Nautilus and the Royal Oak.

Sticker Price $28,900 USD for stainless steel and $49,000 USD for 18K rose gold. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.