In a world dominated by smartwatches and digital timepieces, Vacheron Constantin dares to take a different path.
The launch of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Grand Complication Openface marks a bold return to classical watchmaking, complete with a complication that many might consider obsolete: the minute repeater.
But does a minute repeater still have relevance in today’s fast-paced era?
Equipped with Three High-End Complications
To some luxury watch collectors, a grand complication can seem more like a museum piece—beautiful, but impractical on a daily basis. Yet Vacheron Constantin proves that complexity can be both timeless and purpose-driven.
- Perpetual Calendar
Ideal for travelers and serious collectors, this feature eliminates the need to manually adjust the date every month—even accounting for leap years - Tourbillon
Despite wrist movements throughout the day, the tourbillon ensures that the Overseas Grand Complication maintains exceptional accuracy - Minute Repeater
Even in low-light conditions, time can be heard through a sequence of chimed notes; making it possible to “read” the time audibly.
Titanium: The Game Changer
Most grand complications are cased in gold or platinum—beautiful, but heavy. In contrast, the Overseas Grand Complication Openface is made from Grade 5 titanium, making the 44.5 mm case surprisingly light despite its 602 internal components.
Titanium also has a unique acoustic quality, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the minute repeater’s chimes. In other words, the chiming function is not just a technical formality. It’s central to the experience.
A Rarely Seen Functional Feature
Many watches with a minute repeater mechanism are inherently vulnerable to water due to the side-actuated slide mechanism. However, Vacheron Constantin has engineered this watch to remain water-resistant up to 30 meters. While it’s not a diving watch, it’s durable enough for daily wear, even in the rain or while washing your hands.
The openface dial is also more than just a modern aesthetic choice. It reveals the intricate architecture beneath, with a layout that remains legible and well-balanced: subdials for the perpetual calendar are neatly arranged, the tourbillon aperture is proportioned with precision, and the power reserve indicator is discreetly positioned on the back.
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Grand Complication Openface isn’t a timepiece made to sit behind glass or hide in a safe. It’s a successful experiment in merging haute horlogerie with real-world functionality.
This is a grand complication you can truly wear, not just admire.
So, would you consider adding it to your collection?
