Does Vacheron Constantin Overseas hold value?
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas is a flagship model from the Swiss watchmaker, first launched in 1996. The Overseas has known to consistently hold value over its 25 years of existence with some models appreciating in value too. The Vacheron legacy began in 1755 and their constant horological innovations have earned them the right to retail watches at a higher premium than the likes of Rolex and others. Undoubtedly, the Overseas is a beautiful timepiece with the Gerald Genta-isque design and powerful movements from Jager Le-Coultre and in some variants, developed in-house. I am a strong believer in buying watches that you would appreciate for years to come but there is no harm in understanding the asset or commercial value of these pieces.
Retail Price of Vacheron Constantin Overseas
The Overseas collection is available on retail at the Vacheron Constantin boutiques and ranges from $30,000 all the way upto a whopping $150,000. The obvious question here is, is it worth it? Now, I am not the one with that kind of money lying around in the bank to drop on a watch. Even if you do, spending so much on a watch which has never been referenced in pop culture is a doubtful expense (unlike the Richard Millies).
Grey-market value of Overseas
The grey-market or resale value of the Overseas greatly varies based on the popularity and availability of the model. For instance, the most popular ref. 4500V would be marginally more expensive on Chrono24 as compared to its retail price. The resale value of a watch might be higher for a popular model, short on supply or discontinued altogether. Collectors and enthusiasts seek desirable pieces and would be willing to pay a premium for an iconic piece like the Overseas from Vacheron Constantin.
Historic Auction Values of Overseas
The Overseas has had a steady trend of outperforming estimated bids at auction houses over the past two decades. A great resource for after-market realisation of a timepiece, the auction house gives an accurate desirability quotient of collectors. Needless to say, there would be pieces that fetch an exorbitant amount as compared to others but clearly a strong provenance supports the case. The Overseas has remained one of the most iconic models of Vacheron from the 1970s completing Gerald Genta’s holy trinity footprint.
Auction result from the past two decades give a clear indication about the desirability of the Overseas. On average, the realised price of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas has remained 25% above estimates** at auctions over the last two decades. This data is collected from the popular site Barnebys, which aggregates data from auction houses worldwide. A strong performance in after-market sales confidently confirms that the Vacheron Constantin can hold value if not appreciate over time.
Specifications of the Overseas
The Overseas from Vacheron Constantin was recently launched in 2016 and is available in 36 models. One of the most diverse collection in the market, the Overseas can be seen in many avatars like the Chronograph, Moonphase, perpetual calendar and many more. The watch continues to respect the original design with the iconic integrated strap, popularised in the 1970s. The ref. 4500V is powered by Caliber 5100 which supports the three-hand complications along with the date window.
The simple hour markers on the watch and a flat smooth finish of the dial makes it a great companion for all occasions. Promoted as a sports watch, the Overseas much like its contemporaries from the holy trinity (Audemars, Patek and Vacheron) has never complied by the watchmaker’s constructs. A stunning timepiece from Vacheron is truly capable of shining at every occasion.
Conclusion
The answer is simple, the Overseas from Vacheron Constantin should hold value, whether monetary or not is always a gamble. An iconic piece born in the 90’s has stayed relevant in the maison’s collection and popular among the watch fanatics too. Data suggests the timepiece holds strong monetary value as well, depending on factors such as condition of the watch and provenance.
I am of the opinion that a wristwatch from a historic watchmaker like Vacheron Constantin are companions for life so, choosing a companion solely based on financials is not fair judgement. Rather, it is the craftmanship which should be analysed first followed by a financial scrutiny, if any.
Final Scorecard
