Eight years after the launch of the collection that redefined retro-contemporary elegance, Vacheron Constantin introduces a sophisticated aesthetic evolution of its iconic Fiftysix line. Directly inspired by the historic Reference 6073 from 1956, the Geneva manufacture updates two of its steel cornerstones—the Self-Winding and Complete Calendar models—featuring double-gradient sector dials and refined case finishing.
Aesthetic Evolution: Sector Dials and Coordinated Gray Tones
The centerpiece of this update is its refined chromatic architecture and textures. The new dials feature dual-gradient gray shades, pairing opaline centers with sunburst or checkered hour rings and snailed peripheral minute tracks. Applied 18k white gold hour markers—alternating Arabic numerals and baton indices—reinforce a vintage identity rooted firmly in modern watchmaking.
The 40mm stainless steel case benefits from meticulous finishing contrasts, featuring vertical brushing along the case flanks and bevels paired with polished bezels and crown. The aesthetic is completed by an elegant anthracite nubuck calfskin strap accented with cream stitching and a folding steel clasp.
The Two Core Models
- Fiftysix Self-Winding (Ref. 4600E/000A-H177): Featuring a slender 9.6mm profile, it houses the automatic Caliber 1326 delivering a 48-hour power reserve. A piece of pure design that focuses purely on central hours, minutes, seconds, and a subtle date aperture at 3 o’clock.
- Fiftysix Complete Calendar (Ref. 4000E/000A-H178): One of the manufacture’s most poetic complications. The automatic Caliber 2460 QCL/1 drives a triple calendar (day, month, and hand-indicated date) along with a high-precision moon phase requiring adjustment only once every 122 years, all bearing the Hallmark of Geneva (Poinçon de Genève).
Through the sapphire crystal caseback, both models showcase fine haute horlogerie decorations—including Côtes de Genève and circular graining—topped by the collection’s signature 22-carat pink gold openworked rotor bearing the Maltese cross.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Fiftysix Self-Winding | Fiftysix Complete Calendar |
|---|---|---|
| Reference | 4600E/000A-H177 | 4000E/000A-H178 |
| Case | Stainless steel 40mm (Thickness: 9.6mm) | Stainless steel 40mm (Thickness: 11.6mm) |
| Movement | Caliber 1326 automatic (48h power reserve) | In-house Caliber 2460 QCL/1 automatic (Hallmark of Geneva, 40h power reserve) |
| Dial | Dual-gradient gray, opaline center with sunburst outer ring | Dual-gradient gray with precision moon phase and triple calendar |
| Strap | Anthracite nubuck calfskin with steel folding clasp | Anthracite nubuck calfskin with steel folding clasp |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (~30 meters) | 3 bar (~30 meters) |
