Introducing Vacheron Constantin Revives the 222 in Steel

Vacheron Constantin kicks off 2025 by unveiling the Historiques 222, a timepiece that commemorates the Maison's 270th anniversary. This re-edition marks a return to the iconic 222, originally introduced in 1977 to celebrate the brand’s 222nd anniversary. Designed by Swiss watch designer Jorg Hysek, the original model was a groundbreaking departure from conventional sports watches of the era. It seamlessly blended formal and casual design elements, and continues to stand out as a hallmark of 1970s aesthetics.

In 2022, Vacheron Constantin resurrected the legendary 222 within its Historiques collection. Although the reissued 222 was initially available only in yellow gold, it seemed inevitable that a stainless steel version would eventually join the lineup.

The 222 was an innovative creation at its debut, breaking away from the usual designs focused on functionality for pilots, divers. It introduced a stylish new hybrid that appealed to a broad audience with its bold yet elegant design. A hallmark of the original was its integrated bracelet and distinctive case, featuring a flat bezel and a prominent Maltese cross-shaped detail at 5 o'clock. Constructed as a monobloc, the case required the movement to be fitted from the top and offered water resistance to 120 meters, thanks to its screw-down bezel.

Now, more than four decades later, Vacheron Constantin has reimagined this iconic piece in a new stainless steel edition that retains the spirit of the original while incorporating modern improvements. The case remains 37 mm in diameter, with its profile slightly increasing to 7.95 mm in thickness, compared to the original 7 mm.

The combination of vertical satin-brushing and polishing on various components ensures a refined finish that interacts beautifully with light. The case features an 18K yellow gold Maltese cross at 5 o'clock and a transparent sapphire crystal caseback. Unfortunately, the water resistance has been reduced from 120 meters to 50 meters.

The dial of the new Historiques 222 draws upon its vintage roots with a blue hue that evokes the original model's charm. The date window, now slightly repositioned towards the center, no longer overlaps with the minutes track, offering a cleaner and more balanced design. Another subtle nod to its history is the use of a vintage-inspired font for the "AUTOMATIC" inscription, as well as the off-white to lime green Super-LumiNova coating on the white gold hands and indices.

The watch is powered by the in-house Calibre 2455/2, an ultra-thin movement that operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph (4 Hz) and offers a 40-hour power reserve, with a gold 222-engraved rotor. It comes with an integrated stainless steel bracelet featuring a triple-blade folding clasp. The watch joins the permanent collection at a price of EUR 35,000, approximately AED 131,100.

For more information, you can visit Vacheron Constantin’s official website.