Vacheron Constantin has updated the look of its luxury travel and sports market targeted Overeseas collection. The 41mm chronograph has been given a black dial make-over to create a sportier, racier aesthetic.

Originally designed and crafted twenty years ago, and then re-designed in 2016, the Overseas was reimagined, the Geneva-based Manufacture says, to open up “new horizons for its emblematic model through a collection with a revised design perpetuating its initial spirit” through a “combination of power and distinction”.

Now, the collection has been reimagined once againm, with a visually arresting black dial.

These new-look, darker and sexier models come in two versions: a self-winding three-hand watch and a chronograph.

For the latter, Vacheron has focused on legibility by choosing a silver-toned colour for its three additional counters.

This ‘panda-type’ aesthetic principle — as the Maison calls it — is inspired by the dinstinctive watches dedicated to motorsports in the 1960s.

“The light and dark contrast guarantees enhanced visibility and accentuates the indications provided by the chronograph function,” Vacheron states in a press release.

The chronograph version is powered by a self-winding Calibre 5200, whose 22K oscillating weight adorned with a wind rose can be seen through a transparent sapphire crystal caseback.

This twin-barrel movement is equipped with a column-wheel driving the chronograph start, stop and reset functions and also features a vertical clutch — a technical device that prevents any potential jerking of the hand when the chronograph is activated.

In keeping with the 2016 redesign of the Overseas model, the new black variation also offers strap interchangeability.

Customers can choose from a metal bracelet comprising links that form half Maltese crosses for a casual look, or for a more chic look a leather strap is available.

And for the sporty touch, a rubber strap can be worn with the piece.

The watch features the signature six-sided bezel and semi-tonneau profile, which makes it elegant but not too dressy that it would look out of place on the wrist of an active person.