5 iconic watches that just got modern design updates, from the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 and Cartier Tank Privé Chinoise, to the Vacheron Constantin 222 in yellow gold
- The Yacht-Master has run the gamut of rose, bicolour, platinum and white gold since it was first prototyped in the 1960s – now it’s back in the OG yellow gold
- Meanwhile, the Tank Privé Chinoise is re-released with an openwork dial for its 100th anniversary, and Zenith’s Chronomaster Original gets an elegant rose gold version
1. Vacheron Constantin 222
The 222 is back! Originally designed by Jorg Hysek and launched in steel in 1977, gold and bimetal versions soon followed. For the 2022 relaunch, Vacheron Constantin opted for full yellow gold, joining other brands that have opted to bypass rose gold. Amid the sporty-chic watches with integrated bracelets released in the 1970s, the 222 stands out thanks to its graphically strong bezel profile, which creates a distinctive shadow play.
2. Cartier Tank Privé Chinoise
For its 100th anniversary, the Tank Privé Chinoise is re-released with a radical update. Riding the current wave of open-worked timepieces, the Chinese window-like dial with black and red lacquer detailing creates a temple portico-inspired architecture with horizontal beams overlaying the vertical ones. The quadrilateral, measuring 39.5mm by 29.2mm, is graphically strong and very legible – an important feature in open-worked dials. The three versions – in yellow gold, platinum, and platinum and diamonds – are powered by a new MC skeleton movement developed by Cartier exclusively for this timepiece.
3. Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris QP
With the release of the Polaris diving watch in 1968, Jaeger-LeCoultre entered a new era of large sports watches. The current 42mm piece combines a sporty look with a highly technical perpetual calendar, and is still very much a functional watch. The classical two-crown design is intact, with one setting the time and the other the inner rotating dive-time bezel – and it is waterproof down to 100 metres. But as a timepiece also suited to land-based activities and looks, the Polaris collection is offered with easily interchangeable straps of brushed metal, rubber with clous de Paris, patinated calfskin or black alligator.
4. Zenith Chronomaster Original
