Collector's Notes

My entry into the "holy trinity" of watchmaking started with this beautiful salmon dial Overseas from the late 1990s. It was only a few months prior to purchasing this that I was admiring a very similar example from Mr. Watchley. I wasn't able to swing that one, but my interest was certainly peaked.

I then came across two fantastic articles on the first generation Overseas by Michael Piscatelli (Watchonista) and Ben Dunn (Watch Brothers London). After reading them, I was convinced that I needed to make one of these underrated gems a part of my collection. I kept a watchful eye out for another salmon dial, but those familiar with this line will know that, of the 5 dial variations, this is the most rare. There were opportunities to buy the other colors, but I waited — and I'm very glad I did. After months of searching I was finally able to find one, and for an incredible deal at that!

This is the 35mm mid-size version of the first generation Overseas. It wears slightly smaller than a vintage Datejust — probably closer to a 34mm OP — and that's not at all a bad thing. The further I get into collecting, the more I appreciate smaller watches. They sort of melt away on your wrist as you wear them. You know what I'm talking about? You're not constantly feeling their weight, they aren't protruding from under your sleeve, and they don't beg for attention. This watch does none of that, and that's why I love it!

Specifications

Brand:

Vacheron Constantin

Model:

Overseas

Reference:

42050/423A-8475

Year:

1990s

Case Material:

Stainless steel

Diameter:

35 mm

Lug Width:

23 mm

Thickness:

8.7 mm

Lug-to-Lug:

40.7 mm

Dial:

Salmon

Lume:

Tritium

Crystal:

Sapphire

Movement:

Automatic

Caliber:

Vacheron Constantin 1310

Bracelet/Strap:

Vacheron Constantin stainless steel bracelet

Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in