Vacheron Constantin

dshao1
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Hi Arsenal, here are my 2 cents

I have a 6.5 inch wrist and both Ref. 42042 and Ref. 49140.  Like you, I also like these 1st Generation OS watches because they are smaller than their future generations.  Did you know the the Overseas collection are Tonneau shapped watches?  I didn't realize that until VC wrote a couple of Articles on the history of their tonneau watches.





Here are a couple of wristshots, to give you an idea of how they look.








The chronograph is much thicker, so I don't know if that is a consideration for you.  (12.6mm vs. 8.5mm).





I'll be honest, I only use the chronograph function while traveling (I like the 12 hour totalizer for trips between the US and Asia) and for making coffee in a French Press.

The OS chronometer came out in several versions:  men's, boy's, and women's.  (with mechanical and quartz movements).  I believe the one you are interested in is the Men's version, which is 37mm, with a cal 1310/1311 automatic movement.  Mine is of this variety.

If I had to choose only one OS, it would be the 42042, because the dial is cleaner, I don't use the chronograph function that often and it is thinner.  (I do like the big date of the chronograph, especially as my eyes get older).

There are many counterfeit OS watches out there, and some look quite realistic.  If you can get the seller to provide you both the case and movement serial numbers, you can contact VC's Concierge (in the US and I believe in Euope as well).  They can confirm the numbers match and the year of production.

But in general, it is best to buy from a reputable seller...that is a phrase I learned here on PuristsPro years ago:  "Buy the seller".

Let us know what you decide.  Either OS is a great daily watch.

Best Regards, Dan