Vacheron Constantin just released the new Historiques 222 in stainless steel this past Monday, January 13th, 2025 and I was able to peruse the new watch with the team from Vacheron this Wednesday in New York City. Now that I have seen the watch in the metal, I can give you my honest review as usual. This reissue like its 18K yellow gold counterpart was one of the most awaited watches from the brand. Referred to as ‘Jumbo’ back in the day due to its unusually large size at 37 mm, the 222 was an emblematic sporty-chic model launched in 1977 and designed by Jorg Hysek —not by Gérald Genta as many like to believe.
For this reinterpretation —as in the 18K yellow gold counterpart—, Vacheron Constantin maintained all the original design cues down to the case size but added a new type of clasp —triple-blade double folding rather than double-blade— to the bracelet, as well as a display case back that allows for a full view of the new-generation calibre 2455/2.
Launched in 1977, the 222 was not only a new model with an integrated bracelet but also introduced a functional design featuring a flat base crowned by a prominent fluted bezel. Its monobloc case, which required the movement to be inserted from above, offered a water resistance of 120 meters, thanks to the secure screw-down bezel. Unfortunately, this new model is only water resistant to 50 meters —not the biggest issue but it would’ve been great to keep that level of water resistance.
At just 7 mm in thickness, the 222 set a new standard for slimness, powered by an ultra-thin movement measuring only 3.05 mm. This movement displayed hours, minutes, and date, while the baton hands and straight hour markers—reminiscent of the 1963 reference 6782 Turnograph—enhanced the watch's refined and understated aesthetic. The design also conveyed a sense of durability, highlighted by the bracelet's secure attachment to the case middle and its large hexagonal central links. The new movement is also slightly thicker adding a fraction to the thickness of the case.
Originally offered in a 37 mm size—called Jumbo back then—, the Vacheron Constantin 222 was later also made in 34 mm and 24 mm versions, in steel, yellow gold, or two-tone configurations, with polished or gem-set finishes. Hopefully, a 34 mm or slightly smaller size would follow now for smaller wrists.
In every iteration including now on the new Historiques 222, the Maison’s Maltese cross emblem graced the case at 5 o'clock. Produced in limited numbers until 1985, the 222 is now considered one of the pioneering sporty-chic timepieces in horological history. But the best part is that is now back in the game in its modern iteration.
Things to Know About the Watch
This re-edition of the 222 presented as the Historiques 222 in stainless steel remains true to the original design including its case measuring 37 mm in diameter —only 7.95 mm thick which is slightly thicker than the original 222—, with a few thoughtful modifications aimed at improving comfort and reliability. The case retains the Maltese cross emblem at 5 o'clock, and the design faithfully echoes the aesthetic of the original 222. The matte blue dial is simply gorgeous with its straight hour markers and baton-type hands. However, in this updated version, the hands and markers are filled with SuperLumiNova, replacing the tritium used in the original model.
An additional subtle change made to the Historiques 222 is that the date window has been significantly offset from the outer rim of the dial to enhance legibility, thanks to the slightly smaller diameter of the calibre compared with its predecessor. As far as proportions and the overall look of the dial and the watch, this watch ticks all the boxes.
The craftsmanship of this watch is so impeccable that holding it in person felt like handling a pristine example from 1977. Featuring a monobloc case with a flat top and a fluted bezel, the new Vacheron Constantin 222 is paired with one of the most comfortable and refined bracelets available. For the reissue, the bracelet’s articulation has been carefully redesigned for a more ergonomic fit, ensuring that not a single hair is pinched. The bracelet is very solid unlike what you will find on a Nautilus or other integrated bracelet watches. The interior of the clasp could’ve been more solid or worked with the Maltese somehow but it’s not an issue.
The Movement
Rather than a solid case back like on its predecessor from 1977, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 steel features a display case back that allows for a full view of the in-house Calibre 2455/2 featuring a 22K gold oscillating weight that was redesigned for this model and engraved with the original 222 logo that is surrounded by a fluted motif echoing the bezel.
This new generation automatic movement also operates at a frequency of 4 Hz —28,800 vph— instead of 2.75 Hz of the original model and provides a power reserve of 40 hours when fully wound. The movement of course is certified with the Poinçon de Genève to guarantee every aspect of the watch's performance and ensures the reliability of a highly technical timepiece.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 in stainless steel wears slightly larger and more like a 38 mm watch on my 7.25” wrist circumference. The bracelet offers exceptional comfort, and this new watch feels like a time capsule as if it’s just emerged from a safe after being stored there since the seventies. The watch wears extremely comfortable with a total weight of 120 grams.
The Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 steel is exclusively sold through Vacheron Constantin boutiques. A very impressive timepiece that can easily turn into my daily wearer if I were to turn into a one-watch collector.
Sticker Price USD 32,000. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.
