If you ask us, Vacheron Constantin is the most underrated luxury watch brand.
Even though it’s a part of the holy trinity, it doesn’t get as much love as Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet. Maybe that’s because it hasn’t been rapped about as much…
The Overseas line in particular deserves a little more love. The design, the detail, and the knowing when to pull things back for the perfect balance – they’re all proof of a master at their craft.
So how did we get here? Why is Vacheron so underrated? And why should a Vacheron watch be at the top of your wish list, especially if you don’t want to simply follow the crowd?
Why Vacheron Constantin is so underrated
For many people who want to buy a luxury watch, VC probably isn’t the first brand that springs to mind. Rolex is the most popular (no surprises there) with a 32% market share, according to Luxury Bazaar.
So, at only number 8 in the list of top watch brands by sales, why doesn’t Vacheron get the press it deserves? We’ve got some theories.
For starters, consumers don’t overtly associate Vacheron with anything in particular. Rolex has a flashier image. Pateks are for collectors who approach luxury in a quieter, more understated way. But Vacheron doesn’t have any obvious links.
These associations spread to the world of celebrity. When you think of watches in movies, you think of James Bond with his Rolexes and Omegas, or the Rolex Datejust in American Psycho. Sports stars proudly show off their watches, too. F1 driver Charles Leclerc champions Richard Mille, and Serena Williams goes for Audemars Piguet.
Although VC has been showcased by names like Tom Cruise and Michael B. Jordan, the brand flies under the radar somewhat.
We could also look at Vacheron’s investment in marketing and sponsorships, as both vehicles have helped other watchmakers reach insane heights. A Kantar Media report covered the advertising spend of top watch brands in the US, and Vacheron Constantin came in at number 35. Compared to its competitors, the brand isn’t investing big bucks into promo.
Plus, while Rolex is the official timekeeper for Formula 1 and Wimbledon, and Omega puts its stamp on the Olympic Games, Vacheron Constantin sponsors things a little more quietly. Calling itself “a guardian of art and culture”, VC’s sophisticated set of partnerships includes the Louvre, The Met, and the Educational Institute of the Palace Museum in Beijing.
Why buy VC watches?
There’s an “if-you-know-you-know” element that comes with buying a Vacheron Constantin watch. Every collector isn’t wearing one, which makes the brand even more appealing to us (and maybe to you, too).
But there are plenty of other great reasons to buy a Vacheron Constantin. Shall we?...
01
It comes with a rich heritage
With a legacy that stretches back to 1755, Vacheron Constantin is one of the oldest remaining Swiss watchmakers. Adding a Vacheron watch to your portfolio lets you own a part of that history, which has seen the watchmaker implement innovations that have kept it firmly at the forefront of the industry.
02
Its collections have shaped the sector
VC’s collections are beyond iconic. The Overseas helped define the luxury sports watch category, Patrimony and Traditionnelle set the standard for haute horlogerie, and the Métiers d’Art collection merged art and watchmaking like nothing else.
Incredible limited edition models layer over the brand’s staple lines, treating us to design after design that surpasses every mark. In 2024, the brand surprised the industry with the Berkley Grand Complication and the Egérie - The Pleats of Time concept watch. This felt like a nod to its heritage pieces, which were more daring than collections over the past few decades.
03
They’re historically strong investment pieces
Vacheron Constantin watches typically rise in, or hold, value. This is thanks to limited production numbers, exceptional quality and historical significance.
Of course, if you’re thinking of selling your watch, consider market trends and demand first. Or speak to an expert like Trilogy for advice.
04
Incredible attention to detail
Even the strongest magnifying glass would struggle to find a fault in a Vacheron watch.
The attention to detail and level of finishing that go into every piece are nothing short of mind-blowing – VC is unarguably one of the industry’s best.
Every surface and component has been finished to perfection. Guided by its core value of longevity, Vacheron watches are crafted to withstand the wear of time.
05
VC makes timepieces for every occasion
Vacheron’s broad catalogue covers every corner.
While the sporty Overseas line adds understated luxury to the everyday, the intricate Métiers d’Art collection feels like the perfect special occasion timepiece. The Traditionnelle is one of our favourite dress watches here at Trilogy, while you’ll often see us wearing a timepiece from the Patrimony collection at work – it does simplicity like nothing else. And, if you’re looking for a watch to accompany you on a summer holiday, Historiques 222 never fails.
06
Extraordinary value
People say you can buy a great vintage Vacheron for half the price of its Patek equivalent. Sounds like a wild exaggeration, but there’s some truth in it.
Take the Nautilus and the Overseas, for example. As two of the world’s most iconic sports watches, how do their price tags compare?
A Nautilus from the early 00s sells for around £85,000, while VC’s Overseas watches from the same time period sell for around £8500.
07
Complexity & innovation
VC has produced some of the most complicated watches ever made – with examples dating back to the mid-20th century.
With 270 years spent honing its craft, the maison has built up unmatched capabilities. It weaves knowledge and technique into every timepiece, surprising the industry with creations that set a whole new standard. It’s brought us innovations throughout the centuries, from the Solaria Ultra Grand Complication La Première with its five astronomical complications, to the Overseas Grand Complication Openface that housed a minute repeater, a perpetual calendar, a tourbillon and a power reserve indicator, all within a beautiful sports watch.
And not too long ago, Vacheron Constantin created the world’s most complicated wristwatch.
Tempted to buy a Vacheron Constantin?
Buying a watch is an experience that’s unique to the individual. You don’t always have to buy into the hype.
While VC watches might not be at the centre of every conversation, it’s still a highly desired watch brand – and an all-around favourite here at Trilogy. We believe it’s underrated for what it offers the industry and watch collectors, but this gives you the opportunity to get aligned with a brand you don’t see everywhere.
When you’re buying any watch, remember that complications and investment potential matter, but the most important deciding factor is this: Do you love the watch? If you love the way it looks and feels on your wrist, it’s probably a good match.
Trilogy can help you source and buy a Vacheron Constantin. Browse our new and pre-owned Vacheron watches online, or contact us for more information about our sourcing service. We can help you track down rare and vintage watches at the best prices.
TRILOGY ON YOUTUBE
Follow Trilogy on YouTube for regular updates and reviews of luxury watches and jewellery.