Released in '77 to celebrate VC’s 222nd anniversary, the 222 marked a bold departure from the brand’s traditional dress watches and its entry into the emerging luxury sport watch category alongside the Royal Oak and Nautilus. Designed by Jorg Hysek, the 222 featured a distinctive tonneau-shaped monobloc case, notched bezel, integrated bracelet, and the Maltese cross emblem set into the case flank at 5 o’clock, creating a design that remains instantly recognizable today. Production lasted only until '85 and while exact numbers are not known, collectors estimate just 250 mid-size (700 jumbo) examples were produced across all metals. As a result, it remains significantly rarer than many of its contemporaries and is now regarded as one of the most important and collectible sport watches of the era.

On offer is an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a stainless steel mid-size 222 in truly outstanding, near-new condition and complete with its original factory accessories. Dating to the early '80s, this example is among the finest survivors we have encountered, combining remarkable preservation with a level of completeness seldom seen today. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the dial/hands, which have developed a rich and vibrant "pumpkin" patina that elevate it well beyond the already scarce examples we've studied. Powered by VC's modified version of the ultra-thin Jaeger-LeCoultre cal. 899, the 34mm 222 wears with exceptional comfort and elegance. The bracelet retains 19 links (5 removable) fitting an approximate 6.75-inch wrist. Accompanying the watch are its original box with matching ref. sticker, warranty papers, booklet, serialized hang tag, caseback sticker, and original case-opening tool.

Dial: Has a touch of lume loss at the outer edge of the 7 o-clock marker but it is not distracting. Virtually mint under magnification with no other notable wear. All of the tritium lume has taken a stunning and vibrant "pumpkin" patina, matching the hands. Bezel: Is untouched and shows now notable wear. Hands: Are matching and have taken an equally stunning "pumpkin" patina, to that of the dial. Case: Untouched and "like new" with all factory brushing and extremely crisp edges. No notable wear under magnification. Correct signed crown. Bracelet: Remains completely untouched and "like new" with virtually no stretch from factory. There are some light hairlines but no distracting wear. It retains 19 links (5 removable), fitting an approximate 6.75 inch wrist. Crystal: Clear. Accessories: Box with correct reference sticker, warranty papers/booklet, warranty booklet, serialized hang tag, caseback sticker and case opening tool. The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1980s (early) Reference: 46003/411 Serial: 69XXXX Dimensions: 34mm wide, 43mm lug to lug, 7.5mm thickness. Movement: High-grade automatic cal. 1124 (modified version of JLC's ultra-thin 899.