“Vintage yet resolutely contemporary” is a phrase that summarises precisely not only Vacheron Constantin’s latest release but also its entire approach to watchmaking. The well-aimed words were used by Alexandra Vogler, Chief Marketing Officer of Vacheron Constantin, to describe the new Historiques 222 stainless steel watch, an important piece launched this year to celebrate the watchmaker’s 270^th anniversary. 

Symbolising the Maison’s passion for pushing boundaries, watchmaking expertise and aesthetic mastery, today’s reinvention of the Historiques 222 also highlights the brand’s daring creativity. Sophisticated yet casual, the new 37mm watch continues an extraordinary legacy that began in Geneva in 1755, when Jean-Marc Vacheron signed his watchmaking apprenticeship contract and set in motion a story that continues to captivate watch aficionados today. 

Designed by Jorg Hysek to mark the Maison’s 222^nd anniversary, the Historiques 222 was first unveiled in 1977 in a limited run. Typical of Vacheron Constantin’s predilection for breaking the rules, the timepiece went against the norm for sports watches of that era. Managing to simultaneously appear both smart and sporty, the Historiques 222 was nicknamed ‘Jumbo’ by admiring collectors and signalled a new design direction for Vacheron Constantin. 

Now, in 2025, engineers and designers have collaborated to craft something truly special – a stainless-steel edition of the first 222 model that catches the light thanks to a combination of vertical satin-brushing and polishing on the crown, bracelet and fluted bezel, which carries the spectacular Maltese Cross emblem in 18K yellow gold at 5 o’clock. 

Set on a dazzling blue dial, the date window has been nudged towards the centre so it no longer encroaches on the minutes track. Purists will be delighted to see that the vintage font of the word ‘Automatic’ has been retained. 

Off-white by day and lime green by night, the Super-LumiNova on the hands and the hour markers pay homage to the tritium used in historical watches. The joints of the distinctive Historiques 222’s bracelet have been refined with triple-blade fastenings to conceal the pins and enhance comfort. The caseback carries a signature to mark Vacheron Constantin’s 270^th anniversary, while a transparent sapphire crystal reveals the in-house Calibre 2455/2. Just 3.6mm thick, the movement’s oscillating weight is engraved with the original 222 logo.

Speaking of the 2025 release, which will be followed by more models during the year, Alexandra Vogler explains, “The distinctive character of the 222 has made it one of Vacheron Constantin’s most recognisable models over the last few decades. By kicking off its 270^th anniversary with this iconic timepiece, the Maison is weaving past and present together.”