A hidden gem amongst Vacheron Constantin’s sports watches, the Overseas Tourbillon is thin, understated, and good value as such things go. Now it receives a thorough makeover.

Gone is the dial and excess metal from the bridges, creating the new Overseas Tourbillon Skeleton. Available in two metals, the titanium variant is particularly intriguing as it’s a metal that is rarely used by the haute horlogerie watchmaker.

Titanium with blue accents

Initial thoughts

Though polar opposites aesthetically, the Skeleton is every bit as handsome as the standard Overseas Tourbillon. In terms of finishing, aesthetics and watchmaking, the Tourbillon Skeleton is top of its class not only in the luxury-sports category but even among the brand’s other offerings.

A reason for this is the well proportioned case that measures 42.5 mm wide and only 10.39 mm tall. This results in elegant, flat-and-wide proportions that defines the most desirable luxury sports watches. These proportions gives the watch a sporty aesthetic that is further enhanced by the blackened, skeletonised movement. In comparison, the base Overseas model is smaller in diameter but slightly thicker.

It’s also thinner than a open-worked Royal Oak and Laureato tourbillon

The movement within is notable for balancing simplicity and complexity, which tends to be a challenge for skeletonised movements. In comparison, I find the latest Royal Oak Openworked Tourbillon too nuanced and the GP Laureato Openworked Tourbillon too clean.

The titanium model is about 25% more expensive than the steel variant. While affordability is relative, the Tourbillon Skeleton represents fairly good value as there are few comparables at this price point. Even within the brand’s own catalogue, open-worked wristwatches are mostly much more expensive.

Skeleton

The watch is powered by the cal. 2169 SQ, a movement that’s based on the cal. 2160 found in the standard model. As a derivative of the cal. 2160, the movement is attractive due to the tourbillon bridges visible on the front and back.

A few thoughtful details are incorporated in the movement, such as a tourbillon cage shaped like a Maltese cross as well as a barrel cover shaped like a compass rose.

A crucial but underrated feature is the peripheral winding rotor made of a narrow band of 22k gold. It oscillates on the circumference of the movement so as not to obstruct the view.

Beautiful curves with numerous inner angles

And like the brand’s other skeleton movements, the finishing is elaborate and impeccable. Take for instance the bevelling of the bridges, which is done the traditional way with pith wood. This technique allows for more refined mirror polishing and curvature on bevelled edges.

Key Facts and Price

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon Skeleton
Ref. 6000V/110R-B934 (titanium)
Ref. 6000V/110T-B935 (pink gold)

Diameter: 42.5 mm
Height: 10.39 mm
Material: Titanium or 18k pink gold
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Cal. 2169 SQ
Functions: Hours, minutes, and tourbillon
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour (2.5 Hz)
Power reserve: 80 hours

Strap: Matching bracelet and additional strap in rubber and leather with folding clasp

Limited edition: No
Availability: Titanium model only at boutiques
Price:
Titanium – US$146,000, or 226,000 Singapore dollars
Pink gold – US$170,000, or 263,000 Singapore dollars

For more, visit vacheronconstantin.com