Vacheron Constantin Overseas Ultra-Thin 2500V: Revolutionary Calibre 2550 Changes the Game
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Ultra-Thin 2500V: A New Era with Calibre 2550
Vacheron Constantin has launched the Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin 2500V at Watches and Wonders 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the Holy Trinity sports watch rivalry. According to Monochrome Watches, this model replaces the now-discontinued Overseas Ultra-Thin 2000V and introduces an entirely new manufacture movement — the calibre 2550 — ending Vacheron's reliance on the legendary Jaeger-LeCoultre-derived calibre 1120 architecture.
Why This Release Matters
For years, the Royal Oak Jumbo (powered by calibre 7121 since 2022) and the Nautilus 5811G (with calibre 26-330 S C) have both evolved mechanically, while Vacheron Constantin remained the last of the Holy Trinity to still rely on the historic calibre 1120. The new calibre 2550 restores balance in what Monochrome calls "one of watchmaking's most closely followed segments."
The Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin 2500V arrives in a 39.5mm 950 platinum case measuring just 7.35mm thick — substantially slimmer than both the Royal Oak Jumbo at 8.1mm and the Nautilus 5811G at 8.3mm.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reference | 2500V/210P-H028 |
| Case | 39.5mm x 7.35mm, 950 Platinum |
| Dial | Salmon-coloured lacquer, sunburst satin-brushed centre |
| Movement | Calibre 2550, manufacture automatic ultra-thin |
| Movement Thickness | 2.4mm (thinner than calibre 1120's 2.45mm) |
| Components | 153 |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 80 hours |
| Water Resistance | 50 metres |
| Limited Edition | 255 individually numbered pieces |
| Price | CHF 98,000 |
The Revolutionary Calibre 2550
Developed over seven years, the calibre 2550 is built around three innovative elements: a 950 platinum micro-rotor, a suspended double barrel, and a compact single-level gear train. The micro-rotor ensures efficient winding despite the reduced dimensions, while the suspended double-barrel system — two barrels stacked vertically on a single axis operating in series — delivers an impressive 80-hour power reserve.
This significantly outperforms the competition: the Royal Oak Jumbo's calibre 7121 offers 55 hours, and the Nautilus's calibre 26-330 SC provides only 35-45 hours of autonomy. The gear train has been completely redesigned with a five-wheel arrangement on a single level, optimising energy transmission while maintaining structural rigidity.
Salmon Dial and Platinum Case
The watch features a salmon-coloured lacquered dial with sunburst satin-brushed centre and velvet-finished minute track. According to Monochrome Watches, this combination of platinum case with salmon dial has become a signature of high-end limited editions at Vacheron Constantin. Applied 18k white gold markers and baton hands with blue Super-LumiNova maintain legibility while preserving the ultra-thin aesthetic. Following the 2000V tradition, there is no seconds hand and no date display.
Heritage: From 222 to Overseas
The Overseas traces its origins to the Vacheron Constantin 222 of 1977, designed by Jorg Hysek for the brand's 222nd anniversary. The calibre 1120, derived from the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 920, powered the original Royal Oak Jumbo (1972), the first Nautilus 3700 (1976), and numerous Vacheron Constantin ultra-thin watches for decades. With the calibre 2550, Vacheron Constantin follows AP and Patek Philippe in moving to modern in-house movements for their ultra-thin sports watches.
Strap Versatility
The integrated platinum bracelet with half Maltese cross-shaped links features the brand's quick-release interchangeable system. Two additional straps are included: a beige rubber strap and a dark beige alligator strap with nubuck finish, both with platinum pin buckles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the calibre 2550 significant?
The calibre 2550 replaces the historic calibre 1120, which was based on a Jaeger-LeCoultre architecture from the 1960s. It is the first time the Overseas Ultra-Thin uses a completely modern, in-house designed movement with a micro-rotor, suspended double barrel, and 80-hour power reserve.
How does the 2500V compare to the Royal Oak Jumbo and Nautilus?
At 7.35mm thick, the 2500V is thinner than both the Royal Oak Jumbo (8.1mm) and Nautilus 5811G (8.3mm). Its 80-hour power reserve also exceeds both competitors, making it the most technically advanced ultra-thin sports watch in the Holy Trinity.
Is this a limited edition?
Yes, the Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin 2500V is produced as a limited edition of 255 individually numbered pieces, a number referencing the calibre designation.
Source: According to Monochrome Watches (April 14, 2026).
Read more about ultra-thin watchmaking: The Art of Ultra-Thin Watchmaking