Few of the watch brands can be proud of a history longer than 200 years and of being loyal “friends” of various historical celebrities. If you have previously had tangents with my posts in this blog, you already know that I am a big fan of historical brands. To be honest, I don’t really go into the details of a watch, if I know that it is made by a watchmaking house with an eminent historical past. I recognize the fact that modern watch companies record fabulous results in terms of modern watch architectures with perfect design and useful functions. But still, I can’t resist the brands that managed to last for centuries, making their watches a real historical treasure. One of these brands is none other than Vacheron Constantin.
I haven’t written about this watchmaking house in a long time. And not because I deliberately ignored it, but because I was waiting to receive decent replicas from our manufacturers. To be honest, I can only accept flawless replicas when it comes to watch imitations like Vacheron Constantin or Audemars Piguet. These brands deserve exclusively the best version of imitations, in which there is no room for any design or functionality errors.
Often…
I analyze the replicas of other manufacturers than those who make replicas for us, that is, for AAAReplica. And I want to say that it freaks me out when I see an imitation that is only “half” qualitative. I strongly believe that a replica watch of brands like Vacheron, Philippe, or Audemars, must be flawless if we want the end consumer to really discover the authentic value of these watches.
And here they came. Recently, the replica factory we collaborate with launched an improved version of some Vacheron Constantin models. I inspected them “from head to toe” and I will list the 5 models that I think are worthy of all the attention of a Vacheron Constantin lover.
Namely, these models are worthy of being added to a potential watch collection. Even if they are imitations, their quality seems to be so promising that they will last for long years to come, keeping their exterior similar to the originals, as well as their great functional mechanism.
Overseas Self-Winding Silver Dial Ref. 4500v replica watch
I will start specifically with this model because I know that the trend towards watches suitable for an active lifestyle is currently growing. And that’s exactly what the respective model is: a safe and compact construction that can be a good companion in the circumstances of an active lifestyle.
The first thing I highlighted in this imitation is the attractive play of different types of finishes. Proportionally speaking, 90% of the watch cover has a smooth finish which is so pleasant to the touch. The smooth appearance is specific to the watch case as well as to its bracelet. The remaining 10 percent are a little different to the touch and refer specifically to the bezel of the watch. It comes with a slightly rough pattern and creates the effect of the Maltese cross which, in turn, creates a very attractive visual effect.
Personally, I would opt for the version with a bracelet, even if the watch is also available in a version with a leather, and rubber strap. I couldn’t really imagine a Vacheron Constantin with a rubber strap, to be honest. But, considering the concept of the watch serving an active way of life, I do not exclude that a rubber strap would make particular sense for this model.
The bracelet version, however, has a special charm. The bracelet, by the way, comes in a 3-links version and is made of 904L stainless steel. Just like the watch case, by the way. How happy I am to know that these watches are made of 904L stainless steel. Not because I don’t trust 316l steel, but more because a Vacheron Constantin deserves the best materials.
Additional Specifications
The face of the watch seems discreet, at first glance. But, looking more closely at it, you begin to discover so many fine details, that the watch stops looking modest anymore. The dial background comes in a metallic shade. On this background, you can see the hour markers, minute and seconds hands in a metallic shade, but more pronounced than the one on the background. Moreover, the 6 and 12 o’clock hour markers come with an even more expressive silhouette than the rest of the numerals. This contrast is very well-thought-out and logical because it highlights the indexes of the watch so that you can read them more easily.
The center of each index (hour markers, and hands ) comes with a lume layer (or maybe 2, I’m not sure) that makes the dial of the watch light up when the light in the room is reduced. In such conditions, the timepiece acquires an even more attractive and elegant appearance. Overall, I love the minimalism of this dial. The size of all the dial markers is perfect in relation to the case size of 41mm. They are neither too expressive nor too small.
Likewise, the inscription Vacheron Constantin (and below) Geneva on the imitation faithfully preserves the original sizes and font. Let’s admit that the replica factories do not always manage to apply the inscriptions accurately. More than once I have seen limitations with a horrible application of inscriptions in the industry. Thank God, this imitation, like the ones that follow, has them carefully applied, keeping even the space between “Vacheron” and “Constantin” identical.
Another element that will be useful for you is the date window placed instead of the 3 o’clock numeral. The frame fits perfectly in the overall design due to its fine and subtle shape and font.
Overseas Chronograph Blue Dial replica watch
I could not overlook the Overseas Chronograph Blue Dial model, even if it is part of the same series as the previous model. This is because of its appearance that stands out through an expressive blue, and I know that many of you, guys, adore the blue dials.
The similarity with the previous model consists of a similar bracelet, as well as the silhouette of the case that includes the same Maltese motif.
What makes it different from the previous model is, above all, its proportion. It is significantly more generous than its 41mm counterpart. Respectively, it comes with a more pronounced size of 42.5mm, which makes it look more noticeable on the wrist. At the same time, this watch looks much more “mature” due to the complexity of the dial.
The date window is no longer found at the 3 o’clock index, but between the 3 and the 4 o’clock ones. In addition, the aperture is placed in a diagonal position.
Additional Specifications
The dial plate is a real painting in which the blue color dominates the entire surface. Both the dial plate and the 3 subdials have the same color, which would seem to make it difficult to read the watch due to the lack of contrast. But, ironically, the watch is very easy to read because the hour, minutes, and seconds hands, as well as the hour markers beautifully and effectively emphasize all the indexes of the watch with their silver tones.
The respective watch is somewhat more complex in comparison to the previous model. In order to withstand the effort of different functions, the replica manufacturers have integrated a reliable Swiss mechanism into it.
If you ask me about the shortcomings of this imitation, I can only say one thing: I would have liked the lume effect to be a bit stronger, as we saw in the previous imitation. I’m not sure about this yet, but it seems to me that, in the dark, it looks a little more “pale”. I will wear it on my wrist for another 2 days for testing, and I will understand better if the lume effect is weaker or not, or if it just seemed to me.
Historiques American 1921 Pink Gold replica watch
I included this model in the list for 2 reasons. The first reason is that it has a quality worthy of appreciation. And the second reason is that there is no other watch with such a simple, yet twisted design.
It would seem that there is nothing special in this model. Simple functions, a relatively clean dial, and a leather strap, as a formal watch concept requires.
However, try to read the time on the watch without turning your head to identify a suitable position. Isn’t simple, is it?
Usually…
I advocate more for stainless steel cases, in favor of those covered with gold. I’m not always satisfied with the application of the gold layer on the replicas, and I don’t really trust manufacturers when they claim to apply a double layer. Consumers often write to me about the exact opposite, and that’s why I refrain from replica watches with gold layers.
But, I want to say that this model surprised me like never before regarding the gold coating. The layer really seems to be consistent, and analyzing the imitation from all angles and all possible lights, I do not find any indication that would suggest a poor application. When the gold layer is applied poorly, micro-cracks are always found, especially in hard-to-reach places such as areas between links or between cases and lugs. Luckily, I have not found anything similar in this imitation and I can recommend the Pink Gold version with the greatest confidence.
Why do I insist on it? Because I think the combination between the golden tone and the dark brown leather strap is fabulous. There is something particularly attractive about it. Of course, lovers of the standard classic can opt without any hesitation for a silver model and a black strap, as dictated by the classic label.
What else is special about this watch?
The crown, of course. Have you already noticed that it does not have a standard position? The crown is placed in the upper right corner of the watch, which I find twisted and particularly attractive. Moreover, it coincides with the 12 o’clock marker, which still has an unusual position for a watch.
What to say? This watch seems like a real challenge for our brains that are used to standard models. Besides the fact that it is a challenge, this watch also generates real aesthetic pleasure due to its spectacular aspect.
Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955 Platinum
This model has been out of stock for a long time. Consumers kept asking about it for some time, but they were already tired of hearing the same answer: “we don’t know exactly when it will appear in stock again”. Seeing the current imitation, I want to say that the wait was worth the effort. The replica watch looks fabulous, that’s all I can say.
Looking carefully at the design of the watch, I realize why it took so long for the factories to imitate it. Just look at the horn-shaped lugs of the watch! Have you seen anything like this before? Not likely. And if you notice carefully, the bezel of the watch practically does not stand out. This is because the designers of the watch aimed to highlight the expressiveness of the lugs, which are often left in the shade.
Initially…
…when I found out that the watch is only 38.5 mm, it seemed too small to me. Personally, I’m not really used to watches smaller than 39mm, even if it’s a formal one. But, I want to say that visually, this watch looks bigger when you put it on your wrist. It is probably because the bezel is practically invisible, which visually extends the surface of the dial. At the same time, the bright tone of the dial also contributes to the visual increase in the proportions of the watch.
By the way, the dial has a very calm and fresh tone. It’s somewhere in between white and silver, with slightly darker accents on the 2 sub-dials. The hour numerals are Roman and look very elegant due to their thin and elongated shapes.
Of course, what Platinum means for genuine models is actually “Stainless steel” for the replica version. But I don’t see a problem with that, especially given the fact that it is 904L stainless steel. The internal mechanism is a swiss copy, just like in the previous models, which promises a stable, precise, and long-lasting functionality.
To be honest, it seems that my review seems too positive, doesn’t it? So beautiful, that it seems to be untrue. That’s why I’m going to talk a little about the disadvantages of this imitation, so you know what to expect if you decide to buy one.
Downsides
Without a doubt, the striking advantages of this replica are the phenomenally attractive lugs and the perfect sporty-classic look. On the other hand, what bothers me a bit is the “too intense” color of the black strap. Maybe I’m exaggerating, but the black seems much too dark for me.
And the main disadvantage, especially for those looking for affordable imitations, is the price of this watch. It costs a bit more than previous Vacheron Constantin imitations. At the same time, I would not regret paying for it, considering its impressive quality and strikingly close resemblance to the genuine watch. After all, that’s what we’re looking for in replica watches, right?
Fifty-Six Self-Winding replica watch
I will crown the work with this special model, which actually takes its inspiration from the reference model 6073, produced back in 1956. This model is what I call “excellence through simplicity”. The watch case is perfectly round, with a smooth and perfectly polished bezel. Even the dial is clean and minimalistic, without too many details that complicate the modest look of the watch. On the outer edge of the dial, you will see a black ladder round index that matches with one exactly the same, only in a silver font in the center of the dial.
Despite the uncomplicated appearance of the watch, it still has a particularly attractive effect. This is due to the silvery-dark tone of the dial, which contrasts wonderfully with the stainless steel of the case. Contrary to the “too black” strap of the previous model, this one comes in a shade between black and gray. And this option suits me much more because this grayish black perfectly complements the stainless steel case and the grayish silver inside.
Bottom line
These are the 5 Vacheron Constantin imitations that surprised me a lot. Starting with their physical appearance and ending with the technical durability they provide, these imitations have exceeded my expectations. I put the other Vacheron models on hold for now, because I don’t like either the mechanism on which they work, or their errors in design. And, as I said at the beginning, Vacheron Constantin must be always flawless.