I Didn’t Realise I Owned Such Trendy Watches

“What goes around, comes around” and that is certainly true of watches. When one of the most popular (and expensive) new watches of the recent Watches & Wonders industry show was identified, I realized I had a similar style in my collection.

The new watch was a Vacheron Constantin, specifically the Historiques 222 model. It was described as one of the watches that generated the most hype at Watches & Wonders 2022 and it drew from an amazing vintage back catalog. The watch is extremely luxurious, being made of solid gold, and its price tag of A$93,000 ensures it won’t become exactly mainstream. The watch is 37mm in diameter, features a cushion shaped case with integrated bracelet, and a slim profile. 

The watch in my collection is a humble Seiko 7546-8021 “SilverWave”. It is stainless steel, not gold, and doesn’t have an integrated bracelet, although the bracelet does look integrated. In fact you can swap it out for an alternative bracelet or leather strap if you wish. My watch is 38mm in diameter and has a similar style cushion shaped case and a slim profile. 

Both watches are described as “sports style”, and both bear a similarity to the Gerald Genta designed watches of the era, although the original VC 222 was in fact designed by Jorg Hysek.

Personally I love the lugless style and the smooth sweep from case to bracelet is a very attractive feature in both watches. My Seiko is not as exotic as the Vacheron Constantin, and given the minutiae of watch design, I understand the differences between the two. But I certainly rejoice in the style elements that make my watch such an enjoyable wearing experience. The similarities with a true luxury contemporary offering is an added bonus.

 By Greg Smith