Watch Journal - Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 Reference 4200H/222J-B935

The Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 4200H/222J-B935 was introduced in 2022. An hommage to the 1970's 222, this watch features a monobloc tonneau-shaped case with matching integrated bracelet. The movement within is the self-winding caliber 2455/2, which together with the see-through back is one of the few modern concessions.

Revival of a Classic Vacheron Design

In 2022, as part of the collection presented at Watches and Wonders Geneva, Vacheron Constantin is reissuing its emblematic luxury sports watch launched in 1977 for the 222nd anniversary of the brand; the 222. The third member of the iconic Holy Trinity of luxury sports watches (next to the Royal Oak and the Nautilus, all three sharing at the beginning the same base movement), the new Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 is a typical vintage-inspired watch, yet with some important evolutions to be noted. And the first one being quite obvious; it isn’t released in stainless steel but in yellow gold.

The Classic Updated with a Modern Touch

Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know about the new Historiques 222:

• Identical diameter of 37mm, slightly thicker case of 7.95mm (about 1mm more)
• The same overall design, including the fluted bezel and the Maltese Cross logo at 5 o’clock
• The case now has a 3-part construction (no more monobloc) with independent caseback and see-through crystal, water-resistant to 50m (no more 120m)
• The case is made of 18k 3N yellow gold – a slightly more vintage hue of gold – and so is the bracelet. Finishings are identical to the historic model, yet have been refined
• Gold-toned dial with still a 2-hand and date display, historic font for the Automatic mention
• The date window has been significantly offset from the outer rim of the dial to enhance legibility
• The bracelet is fitted with a new triple-blade clasp
• The bracelet articulations have been revisited to hide the visible pins and improve comfort on the wrist
• The movement has been changed, becoming calibre 2455/2 with 4Hz frequency and 40h power reserve. Also now features quick-set date. New rotor a fluted motif echoing the bezel

Attention to Finer Details

With the Vacheron Constantin logo positioned on the lower right of the front of the case, unique hexagonal intermediate links, semicircular bezels, a dial without seconds and superior Vacheron Constantin quality, we think that the new 222 is already among the classics. We hope that a completely stainless steel version of the same model will appear in the future.

A Brand New Modernized Movement