Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix

Fiftysix is a collection from Vacheron Constantin, the Geneva manufacture founded in 1755. The line grew out of the historic reference 6073 of 1956 — one of the brand's first watches with an automatic calibre and a water-resistant case — and from it Fiftysix inherited its defining feature: lugs shaped after the four branches of the Maltese cross, the brand's emblem. The case creates a smooth transition from bezel to strap and sets the line apart from traditional dress watches: this is a classic designed for every day, not only for special occasions.

Within the line, versions differ by movement. The simple three-hand models use the automatic calibre 1326: 48-hour power reserve, 28,800 vibrations per hour, and a 22 ct gold rotor with an openworked Maltese cross visible through the transparent caseback. The complete calendar models display the day, month, hand-indicated date and moon phase, powered by the in-house calibre 2460 QCL/1, while the top of the line is an ultra-thin tourbillon version with the peripheral-rotor calibre 2160. Cases are made in stainless steel and rose gold; the core models measure 40 mm and are fitted with a domed "box" sapphire crystal — a direct reference to the vintage crystals of the mid-20th century.

Within the line, the choice is by complication, case material and how the watch is worn. A three-hander on a bracelet is the option for everyday and office wear; the complete calendar and tourbillon appeal to those who care about the mechanics inside as much as the elegance of the silhouette; an alligator leather strap gives the same watch a more formal character.

The collection includes steel models on an integrated bracelet. Each listing gives the condition, what is included, the reference, calibre, case size and power reserve. Related Vacheron Constantin collections are Overseas, Patrimony, Traditionnelle and Historiques.