The Best Entry-Level Vacheron Constantin Watches
“Entry-level” isn’t a term that often comes to mind when one thinks of Vacheron Constantin, the master of haute horlogerie and member of the renowned “Holy Trinity” of luxury watches. The respected Swiss watchmaker boasts over two centuries of continuous production and is celebrated within the industry for its unparalleled precision, stunning design elements, and sophisticated complications. Understandably, there is a premium associated with so much prestige, heritage, and high-end horology. Still, every brand has an entry point–even if it’s over $10k–and we’ll explore the best entry-level Vacheron Constantin watches below.
Keep in mind that this is in no way a complete list, and I acknowledge that other entry-level luxury watches are available from Vacheron. These are simply models that offer compelling value, considering their price and overall functionality. We’ll look at the most attainable Vacheron models from the current lineup as well as pre-owned discontinued models.
How Much is the Cheapest Vacheron Constantin?
The most affordable Vacheron Constantin watch in production is the Fiftysix, which retails for $12,700. However, there are options on the grey market for less, with some models dipping below the $10,000 mark, depending on the design set.
Men’s Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding Ref. 4600E
The Fiftysix is modeled after vintage reference 6073 dating to, you guessed it, 1956. The modern interpretation has a similar silhouette featuring a round case and lugs that form the iconic Maltese Cross – the brand’s logo and a universal symbol of fine watchmaking. Furthermore, all Fiftysix models are driven by an automatic mechanical movement, just like the original watch from the 1950s. The time and date dial, versatile, all-occasion design set, and stainless steel finish of the most affordable models are all standard features of a traditional, entry-level watch that also help the collection reach a broader audience without forsaking the air of refinement and excellence that often accompanies Vacheron timepieces.
As of 2023, the Fiftysix Self-Winding is Vacheron’s most affordable current-production model, even supplanting the Overseas, which has previously led the entry-level category. It’s an excellent gateway into Vacheron Constantin ownership, with retail prices at $12,700 and pre-owned prices at around $11,000 for the 40mm model.
Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Specs
| Current Production References | 4600E/000A-B487, 4600E/000A-B442, 4600E/110A-B487 | |
| Metal | Stainless steel | |
| Case Size | 40mm | |
| Dial | Blue, silver | |
| Bracelet | Leather, stainless steel | |
| Movement | Self-winding mechanical | |
| Complications | Date and stop seconds |
Women’s Vacheron Constantin Overseas Quartz ref. 1205V
The Overseas collection has housed many of the brand’s most affordable timepieces, including the women’s Overseas Quartz from the current lineup. In true Vacheron fashion, even their most affordable women’s watch epitomizes sophistication and class with delicate lines and a bezel decorated in glittering diamond brilliants. However, the quartz movement allows the watch to hold a position on the lower end of the retail price spectrum at $16,500. Pre-owned, this collection ranges from around $17,450 to $25,000.
Vacheron Constantin Ladies’ Overseas Quartz ref. 1205V Specs
| Current Production References | 1205V/100A-B591, 1205V/100A-B590 | |
| Metal | Stainless steel | |
| Case Size | 33mm | |
| Dial | Blue, black | |
| Bracelet | Leather, stainless steel | |
| Movement | Quartz | |
| Complications | Date |
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Men’s Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding Chronograph ref. 49140
Focusing on the grey market, next, we have the Overseas Chronograph. The Overseas collection initially debuted in 1996 as an evolution of the Vacheron Constantin 222, featuring a similar tonneau-shaped case and integrated bracelet. The Overseas has since been reinvented multiple times (most recently in 2016), resulting in countless design variations to suit nearly any budget. Collectors have their choice of case size, movement complication, bracelet, and even metal finish – ranging from stainless steel to gold.
While the current stainless steel chronograph ref. 5500V retails for $35,600, it is possible to invest in an older model with a self-winding mechanical movement for under $20,000. Compare that price to the most “basic” next-generation stainless steel and time and date ref. 4500V, which retails for $25,000 and commands upwards of $30,000 used. With that in mind, discontinued stainless steel chronograph models offer compelling value and deserve a spot on our list.
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chrono Ref. 49140 Specs
| Metal | Stainless steel | |
| Case Size | 40mm | |
| Bracelet | Stainless steel | |
| Movement | Automatic | |
| Complications | Chronograph, big date |
More on the Overseas:
What is the Price of a Vacheron Constantin Overseas?
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 4300V/000R-B064
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph “Panda” for 2023
Entry-Level Gold Vacheron Constantin – Patrimony Power Reserve ref. 47200/000G-8445
Constantin introduced the Patrimony in 2004, featuring a design inspired by watches produced by the brand in the 1950s. The collection fully embraces a minimalist and understated aesthetic that has the potential to lend itself to an affordable price point, particularly the most basic models. It’s true that the watch Vacheron describes as “circular perfection” is also home to some truly show-stopping precious metal innovations that command well into the six figures, such as the rose gold Traditionelle Tourbillon. However, as of 2023, the current line-up also features two-hand models for $22,100 retail, with even more deals on the secondary market.
As with most dress watches on the market, the Patrimony can be found with favorable discounts relative to sports models. The 18k white gold reference 47200/000G-8445 will set you back less than most watches on this list at just under $12,000, pre-owned. It sports the same pure design as other Patrimony models but with the added functionality of a date mechanism and a power reserve indicator.
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Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Power Reserve Ref. 47200 Specs
| Metal | 18k white gold | |
| Case Size | 36mm | |
| Dial | Silver | |
| Bracelet | Leather | |
| Movement | Automatic | |
| Complications | Date, power reserve indicator |
Vacheron Constantin Historiques Triple Calendrier 1942 ref. 3110V/000A-B426
The Historiques collection is home to heritage models that pay tribute to watches from the brand’s storied past, which boasts an uninterrupted production run dating to 1775 – an impressive feat unmatched by any other Swiss brand on the market today. These watches strike the perfect balance between contemporary elegance and retro design elements and are some of the most unique in the brand’s portfolio.
For as low as $20,000 pre-owned and $24,100 retail, you can buy a stainless steel Vacheron Constantin with an irresistibly retro design set and multiple complications, such as a pointer date, the day of the week, and the month.
Vacheron Constantin Historiques Triple Calendrier 1942 Ref. 3110V Specs
| Metal | Stainless steel | |
| Case Size | 40mm | |
| Dial | Brass | |
| Bracelet | Leather | |
| Movement | Manual-winding | |
| Complications | Pointer date, month, and day of the week |
Vacheron tends to favor precious metals, which is reasonable considering the Maison’s impressive reputation in the industry and the host of sophisticated movements in its portfolio. Still, there is a plethora of affordable models in many different metal finishes, including precious metal and steel, to be found at retail and pre-owned and in various price ranges. Hopefully, you found inspiration in this brief list to guide you on your path to Vacheron Constantin ownership.
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