Borna Bosnjak
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Panda is the sportiest member of the collection thus farJoins the black reverse panda model from 2018 with a silver panda colourwayPowered by the in-house calibre 5200, complete with Geneva Seal and solid gold rotor engraved with a compass roseThe Overseas from Vacheron Constantin has been the brand’s entry into the congested integrated-bracelet sports watch space since its 2016 redesign. With one of the best blue dials in the business at the forefront, the Overseas has helped Vacheron Constantin ascend to previously unseen levels. Part of that ascent was thanks to the new Overseas Chronograph 5500V, a more masculine counterpart to the Overseas Ultra Thin 2000V and Overseas 4500V, equipped with a brand new in-house chronograph movement, now visible through the caseback. The brand new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Panda dial continues the colour-contrasting trend started in 2018 with the reverse panda, bringing an air of sportiness and taking the place of the all-silver variant that has now been discontinued.Clearly, the most notable feature is the dial and its reflective silver surface. Finished with a satin sunburst effect, it’s given additional depth by the three snailed registers and steep flange, both in black for extra contrast. All the hands and markers are 18k white gold – a dangerous but pretty choice against a sparkling silver dial.The new Overseas has always worn large, and the same goes for the Overseas Chronograph. With a 42.5mm stainless steel case, it commands plenty of on-wrist presence, though it does stay fairly slim at 13.7mm in thickness. An excellent addition to any Overseas is the inclusion of three additional straps alongside the Maltese cross-inspired steel bracelet. With the help of the patented quick-release system, the wearer is able to quickly swap between the bracelet and black leather and rubber options, all fitted with triple folding clasps.Finally, the beating heart of the Overseas Chronograph Panda is the calibre 5200, newly developed for the Overseas Chronograph redesign. From the frosted and polished finishes on the 22k gold rotor weight to the Geneva stripes, perlage and polished rehauts, it’s a movement worthy of its Poin?on de Geneve hallmark. Spec-wise, it’s an automatic chronograph movement operated via column wheel and vertical clutch – you can see the component in the top right, complete with Maltese cross insignia. It’s comprised of 263 components and beats at 28,800 vph for up to 52 hours.Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Panda pricing and availability:The new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph Panda is available now from Vacheron Constantin. Price: A$51,500, US$32,400, CHF32,700, 36,700BrandVacheron ConstantinModelOverseas ChronographReference Number5500V/110A-B686Case Dimensions42.5mm (D) x 13.7mm (T)Case MaterialStainless steelWater Resistance150 metresDialSilver satin sunburst, snailed black registersCrystal(s)SapphireStrapStainless steel bracelet with patented toolless system, additional black leather and rubber straps with triple folding claspsMovementIn-house calibre 5200, Geneva Seal certification, automatic chronograph with column wheel and vertical clutchPower Reserve52 hoursFunctionsChronograph, 30-minute totaliser, 12-hour totaliser, hours, minutes, dateAvailabilityNowPriceA$51,500US$32,400CHF32,70036,700
08.02.23