Hands-On with Vacheron Constantin’s New Overseas Black Dials

It’s important to note that this announcement isn’t for a new model per se, but for two new black dials being added to the Overseas lineup. In particular, these dials have found themselves being added to the three-hand with date and chrono models.
 

First up, we have the Overseas self-winding three-hand model. For this article, we received a sample of the three hander on the rubber and stainless steel bracelet. As you can see, this 41mm stainless-steel piece received a deep black lacquered dial with white gold indices and silver logo and text. The watch has a commanding presence on the wrist and will work well in a wide variety of conditions, from the wilderness to the boardroom.
 

Powered by the brand’s in-house 5100 caliber and wound by their now iconic 22 carat oscillating weight. Sporting 60 hours of power reserve and ticking at a steady 4hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour. Available on a metal bracelet or the optional of leather or rubber quick change (no tools) straps.

In another first, the brand has released a contrasting black/silver subdial dial option for its Overseas Chronograph. While the three-hander variant is assuredly gorgeous, this racing inspired chrono may just be the icing on the cake. A column-wheel chronograph featuring a new black lacquered dial with silver-toned subdial counters lending the iconic ‘panda’ look made popular by the titular Paul Newman. We didn’t have a chance to photograph the new Overseas Chrono, but the brand’s press photos do give a good example of the model.
 

By adding a chronograph complication to their base movement, the brand brings forth a powerful 54-jewel caliber 5200 chronograph which is viewable through a sapphire crystal caseback. The twin-barrel movement tracks hour, minute, and running 60 second counters. Start, stop and reset functions are activated by a strong vertical clutch which provides accurate timekeeping under the most strenuous of conditions. All this is backed by 52 hours of power reserve.
 

All of this is packed inside an anti-magnetic 42.5mm stainless steel case. Screw down pushers allow the watch to be water resistant to 150 meters (or nearly 500 feet).