24 Hours Later: Vacheron Constantin Goes for Versatility with the New Overseas Chronograph “Panda”

Who doesn’t love a panda? When this style of chronograph dial first appeared in the 1960s, the legibility of the contrasting black sub-dials and its distinctive, bold look was the main attraction. Over the years, the sport chic aesthetic kept enthusiasts interested.

Vacheron Constantin has further piqued our passion with the new Overseas Chronograph “Panda.” The brand has used its impressive artisanal acumen to elevate every detail on this stainless steel watch. And they’ve packed it with their in-house Calibre 5200, a self-winding column-wheel chronograph movement featuring a 22K gold oscillating weight adorned with a compass rose.

Maybe it’s the white-tie appearance of this timepiece tricking our collective brain, but dare we suggest that this Overseas Chronograph “Panda” is a sports watch that transcends all social codes? That it’s a dress watch and a sports watch?

Let’s make like a podcast and investigate.

Vacheron Constantin launched its first Overseas Chronograph in 1999. Geared towards travel and escapism, the Overseas told the story of an elegant world traveler – a spirit who was at home in the boardroom and the beach. It was a versatile chronograph but still miles away from the watches associated with auto racing
 

In 2004, and 2016, the manufacture revisited the look of the Overseas Chronograph, further refining its sporty-chic aesthetic. At the same time, the world kept changing. Dress codes changed, and dressing up became more of an extension of one’s personality. Of course, these changes did not result in a flat-out rejection of formal attire, but rather wearers of fine watches began choosing pieces they felt a connection to for important moments.

With its stylized six-sided bezel, the Overseas Chronograph already has a distinctive look. Now Vacheron has made it even more unmistakable by adding more elegance to its character with a panda dial.
 

“For the manufacture, Overseas Chronographs have always marked a desire for controlled yet subtly disruptive breakthroughs,” VC’s Style & Heritage Director Christian Selmoni said in a press release. “These versatile timepieces combine the spirit of Haute Horlogerie characterizing Vacheron. A desire to explore other watchmaking territories and to experiment with new creative fields.”
 

With its dual sporty yet posh spirit, Vacheron believes the new Overseas Chronograph “Panda” is also a continuation of the 222, which was re-released in 2022 to much fanfare. But its hybrid nature is also a nod to the future, its modularity reflecting both the changing requirements of its customers and signaling the legitimacy of sporty elegance in the rarified world of Haute Horlogerie.
 

Appreciating the past and living in the moment is important, but the Overseas Chronograph “Panda” delivers extra joy because of its cute face that looks to the future!

The Overseas Chronograph “Panda” is available now for $32,400. Please visit Vacheron Constantin’s website for more information.

(Photography by Liam O'Donnell)