Although its construction and decoration are extremely traditional, this new caliber corresponds to 21st century in terms of both its size and its power reserve. This ideal 4Hz frequency ensures both precision and reliability, while providing an eight-of-a-second reading of times. This mechanical self-winding mechanism beats at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Caliber 5200 is enriching the large family of “in-house” Vacheron Constantin movements and is currently available specifically in this model.
Watch movement constructors are well aware that developing a caliber with a built-in chronograph function is one of the most complicated feats to achieve. The metal bracelet as well as the leather and rubber straps are interchangeable in no time and without any need for tools, by means of a clever pincer system clamping the fixed spring-bar. The dial and its flange are at once dazzling and understated, and if all that were not enough to win over the most skeptical connoisseurs, the detail of the hour-markers encapsulated in luminescent material should do the trick. The succession of satin-brushed, polished and beadblasted surfaces lends a delicate sense of harmony to the various volumes. There is nothing revolutionary about the architecture of this watch or the materials chosen, but the construction and finishing are absolutely perfect. The 42.5mm-diameter case of the model entrusted to us is in steel, while the bezel, crown and pushers are pink gold. Whereas others are jostling to increase the perceived value of their products, a quick glance is in this instance enough to inform the observer regarding the real quality of this exterior. One does not have to be a specialist or even to make a detailed evaluation of the construction and finishing of this watch to appreciate the craftsmanship involved. The exterior of this Overseas Chronograph is one of the most impressive demonstrates of this principle in recent years. When watchmaking is exercised as it should, there is no need for swagger to stir interest and kindle emotions. At a time when pessimism has frozen certain R&D departments in their tracks, and other prestigious brands are offering not-really-new models by simply tweaking a model present in their collection for several decades with a fresh dial or a different gold color, Vacheron Constantin delivers a genuinely new launch powered by a specially developed in-house caliber, a worthwhile movement that equips the Overseas Chronograph to which this detailed analysis is devoted.
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