Table of contents:

Hands On With The Vacheron Constantin “Panda Dial” Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686

Hot on the heels of the collectible Vacheron Constantin Chronograph, comes the Genevan giant’s latest inception - the Overseas Chronograph “Panda” ref. 5500V/110A-B686. Chrono Hunter takes a sneak peek to see if it’s worth our time.

First launched in 2016 at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, the ref. 5500V/110A-B686 originally had a blue and silver dial.
In 2017, a revamped two-tone model, the 5500V was unveiled, featuring a silver dial.
The stainless steel Vacheron Overseas Chronograph is considered one of the brand’s most highly respected models in recent years.

Why Are Panda Dials So Popular Among Collectors?

Renowned for their simple, clean look, panda dials have actually been around since the 1960’s. And who do we have to thank for this watch trend…you guessed it Rolex.

Usually, with a white dial representing seconds, markers and black subdials, panda dial watches offer chronograph settings such as a stopwatch. These can be found on the black subdials. The white markers are normally assigned for hours and minutes.

As hotly debated as Rihanna’s fiery red time-only Jacob & Co Brilliant Skelton Northern Lights watch she wore at Super Bowl LVII, panda dial watches are a burning issue in watch circles.

Rolex Daytona “Panda” 116500LN - Source: ABlogToWatch

As eye-catching as her new bump, these very well loved chronographs have produced some of the most iconic watches of all time like the classic Rolex Daytona “Panda” 116500LN.

Highly visible and visually appealing, this panda dial trend soon caught on that still creates pandemonium to this very day! Black subdials or “eyes” are located at 3 and 9 o’clock while the “nose” is situated at 9 o’clock to achieve the black on white “panda” dial look. Heck, we will even let you off if your watch has a white or cream dial…it all counts.

The contrast of the subdials against the crisp white, silver or cream dial made the watch community jump up and take note. Consequently, demand was stoked like a fire and the panda dial torch was well and truly lit.

Personality Of The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686

Bearing an almost uncanny resemblance to the new limited edition 60th Anniversary TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph, sporty chic is definitely on the horological menu.

Source: Monochrome Watches

Originally produced in 1999, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph has come a long way. In fact, you will find it hard pressed to snuff out any stainless steel versions in stores as they have become like gold dust.

Adding a much more modern feel, gents can buy a Vacheron like this if they really want to show off a sportier edge. This brand spanking iteration takes inspiration from those popular TAG watches that have been deeply aligned with motorsport such as the TAG Heuer F1. And it is even visually better in metal.

Whether you're a Steve McQueen addict or simply love the feel of a luxury car interior, we do like the panda dial adorned on the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686. It just screams authenticity. Jeremy Clarkson could spring into action with this fully loaded automotive inspired watch.

What’s So Special About The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686?

Let’s lift the horological bonnet up on this baby for a second.

Measuring 42.5mm, it follows on from its predecessor, the reverse panda with black dial for the Overseas Chronograph that was launched in 2018. Sticking to its panda sibling, it is home to a stainless steel case with satin brushed finish. The bezel has six sides in the shape of a Maltese cross where you can operate a number of specific chronograph functions from start to reset.

Source: Monochrome Watches

On the silver-toned dial, you will find a fabulous sunburst finish that elevates this timepiece. Meanwhile, watch out for the flange in black velvet, 18k hour markers in white gold and a subtle date window positioned at 4:30pm. Now, some watch peeps might not prefer the aperture here but Vacheron tends to pull it off rather well.

After all, we do love the 222 Historique and legendary Historique Americain with its unique display made possible thanks to rotating the movement 45 degrees. As for this number, all hours, minutes, seconds and chronograph counter hands benefit from Super-Luminova delivering first rate visibility no matter how dark your mood.

Other highlights feature a transparent sapphire case back, 12 hour and 30 minute chrono function and running seconds, located at 9 o’clock. We think the dial steals the show. If you want to buy a Vacheron Constantin from the Overseas Chronograph collection, then plump for this one…it won’t let you down watch fiends.

Offering 150m of water resistance, you’ll literally have to plunge to altogether new depths to find one. The satin finish continues across the interchangeable stainless steel strap system and case. It also comes with a black rubber and black calfskin strap which enjoy a deployant double folding clasp composed of stainless steel.

Source: Monochrome Watches

From rocking it at your best friend’s wedding to travelling solo, the straps can be swapped in the blink of an eye with no tools required. Talk about making it snappy! But there’s an added bonus: watch fans. Buy a Vacheron Constantin like this and the stainless steel bracelet can be extended thanks to its last link.

Travelling overseas with the Overseas? (see what we did there). Its slick comfort adjustment function allows the opportunity for easy movement, ideal for those in hotter climates.

Inside The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686

We think it’s about time to let you in on the movement. And boy does it not disappoint watch lovers.

Source: Vacheron Constantin

Taking an astonishing five years to develop, the movement consists of 263 components. This is Haute Horlogerie but not as we know it. Housing the self-winding in-house Calibre 5200, the new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref 5500V/110A-B686 delivers a chronograph system with column-wheel and oscillating weight made from 22k gold.

Like the recently launched rose gold Overseas Chronograph it is all about wanderlust and exploration. Boasting a 52 hour power reserve, it comes with the official Hallmark of Geneva signifying its exquisite materials and craftsmanship, extremely key in any purchase if you want to buy a Vacheron Constantin.

The Maltese cross is a new element of these particular chronographs which is reflected on the column wheel, reminiscent of the brand’s logo. The advantage of the twin barrel ensures resistance from any magnetic fields via a soft iron ring.

Conclusion

Have we tantalised your horological taste buds yet watch fans? There’s so much to drool over regarding the new Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph ref. 5500V/110A-B686. Unmistakably sporty with a contemporary look, it blends top-notch readability with the exclusivity of a “holy trinity” brand. And if you want to buy a Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph such as this, the retail price is £31,200.

The timeless panda watch design is still very much in with collectors hence its enduring popularity. On the other hand, the radiant sunburst finish is as clear as Summer’s day. Oh and then there’s the influential arm candy factor.

A watch that can be worn easily for a variety of occasions (not just taking your Aston Martin out for a quick spin), the automotive pull will no doubt draw in many fans and collectors. Throw in the interchangeable strap system and you have three entirely different outfit changes in one. And all before Watches and Wonders 2023.

Forget Hulkamania…this is Panda-mania of the highest order.

Want to buy a Vacheron Constantin the smart way? Looking for a timepiece with an iconic panda dial? Then contact ChronoHunter here and we will be delighted to assist in finding you the perfect watch to suit your needs.

Boasting 700 plus five star reviews on Trustpilot, why look anywhere else if you want to buy a watch or sell a watch?

Download our app or fill in the form here with the specific details of the watch you want to buy. This goes straight to our trusted network of luxury retailers. Receive offers within hours or sometimes minutes and within the blink of an eye, you can bag yourself a luxury watch at the best price.

Discover, hunt, buy, sell

Buy Or Sell A Luxury Watch The Smart Way With Chrono Hunter

If you are considering your new purchase or perhaps the sale of a beloved timepiece, Chrono Hunter is the smart way to buy or sell a luxury watch.

Compare Offers from the world's most reputable luxury watch retailers.

Save Time.

Save Money.

Personalised Service.

Hassle-Free.