The New & Elegant Black-Gold Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Self-Winding

To attract and cultivate a new generation of watch enthusiasts who are still young but may develop a passion for collecting fine mechanical timepieces, Vacheron Constantin launched a new entry-level collection in 2018. Inspired by the design of the Reference 6073 introduced by the brand in 1956, the collection was aptly named Fiftysix, capturing the mood for vintage-looking watches while blending a mid-century aesthetic with a modern, casual urban vibe. At its debut, Vacheron Constantin presented the Fiftysix in both steel and pink gold versions, offering models such as the Self-Winding time and date, a Day-Date, and a Complete Calendar. Later that same year, a Tourbillon model was also introduced. Most recently, the brand has expanded the collection by adding the Fiftysix Self-Winding model in rose gold, featuring a black dial. 

The new Fiftysix Self-Winding model features a pink gold case with a distinctive Maltese cross-inspired lug shape and measures 40mm in diameter and 9.6mm in thickness, complete with a recessed fluted crown that gets some protection from the asymmetrical case design. A box-shaped sapphire crystal covers the dial, while the caseback is of the exhibition type, showcasing the watch’s inner workings. With a water resistance of 30 meters, this watch is clearly designed for more formal, dressy occasions rather than casual, everyday wear.

Like all models in the Fiftysix collection, the black-toned dial of this Fiftysix Self-winding showcases the distinctive sector layout. It features a minutes and seconds track around the outer edge and an inner black-and-white railway-style track. Large, applied gold Arabic numerals between the tracks mark the even hours, while Super-LumiNova-treated baton-style indices are used for the odd hours. The dial is black opaline in the centre, transitioning outward to a sunburst finish from the railway track. A discreet date window at 3 o’clock, set against a black background, seamlessly matches the dial’s colour. The gold hands include luminous hour and minute hands for enhanced readability.

The Fiftysix Self-winding uses Vacheron’s automatic calibre 1326, visible through a display case back. The movement is based on a Cartier ébauche and produced by the Richemont Group’s movement manufacturer, Horlogère ValFleurier. It is then finished, assembled, and regulated at Vacheron Constantin workshops. The movement comprises 142 components, including 25 jewels, operates at a 28,800 vibrations/hour frequency and provides 48 hours of autonomy when fully wound. Calibre 1326 offers a quick set date, hacking seconds, and has an openworked Maltese cross-shaped pink gold oscillating weight. 

The new rose gold Fiftysix Self-winding with a black dial is worn on an anthracite nubuck calfskin leather strap with calfskin lining and ecru buckle. The price is EUR 28,100. For more, visit www.vacheron-constantin.com.