WATCHES & TIMEPIECES 31
AN ULTRA-THIN MOVEMENT Thanks to its automatic tourbillon calibre 2160, with a profile of just 5.65 mm and a diameter of 31 mm, this Oveseas watch is distinguished by its remarkably thin case, guaranteeing optimal comfort on the wrist. This ultra-thin movement, incorporating a tourbillon cage, features bidirectional winding, ensured by a peripheral oscillating weight with a guilloché 916 / 1000 gold segment, giving it optimal performance and an 80-hour power reserve. This type of construction offers a dual advantage: it provides an unobstructed view of the movement and integrates the oscillating weight at the bridges, resulting in a significant reduction in thickness.
With this same focus on slimness and efficiency, the openworked tourbillon cage incorporates a peripheral drive, eliminating the need for a central pinion. This configuration ensures optimal energy transmission from the mainspring barrel to the balance wheel.
Designed to highlight the complexity of the timepiece, the movement’ s finishes offer subtle plays of light on its 188 components, elegantly underscoring its sophistication. The calibre features a circular-grained mainplate, the bridges are decorated with Côtes de Genève and hand-beveled, the tourbillon shank is delicately cradled, the wheels are grained, and the screws are chamfered and polished: all details that testify to meticulous craftsmanship.
INTERVIEW WITH CHRISTIAN SELMONI, STYLE AND HERITAGE DIRECTOR
Has titanium become an essential material in the Overseas collection? Vacheron Constantin’ s attraction to titanium dates back some fifteen years. Initially, this material was preferred for the case components, helping to reinforce the collection’ s sporty and robust character. The last four years have been marked by the emergence of timepieces made entirely of titanium with integrated bracelets, which have established themselves as a preferred alternative to the steel watches in the Overseas collection. Titanium is particularly prized for its inherent qualities: hypoallergenic, lightweight, and possessing high mechanical and corrosion resistance. In short, it is a material perfectly suited to the Overseas spirit, a watch designed to withstand the rigors of travel.
Is a tourbillon model, known to be fragile, compatible with the concept of a sports watch? Since the invention of the tourbillon in the early 19th century, watchmaking technology has undergone major advancements. These advancements concern not
only materials science but also crucial elements such as shockabsorbing systems that protect the regulating organs. These two elements combined now make it possible to create tourbillon watches suited to an active lifestyle with a sporty elegance unthinkable just a few decades ago. Add to that a case made entirely of titanium, and you have a slim, lightweight, and robust watch with exemplary precision thanks to its tourbillon regulator, which compensates for the effects of gravity.
Why this deep red color? The Overseas watches form a collection that lends itself beautifully to new color explorations. This became clear when the Maison introduced a pink hue on certain women’ s models and, more recently, intense green or gold dial colors. From there, it was interesting to continue by introducing new variations that bring a touch of originality. The deep red color, elegant and intense, fits perfectly into this vision.
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ISSUE 75 2026 THE ART OF LUXURY