Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Visual Update with Self-Winding and Complete Calendar in Grey

I always forget how young the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix collection actually is. It debuted in 2018, meaning it’s less than 10 years old. I think the reason the collection feels older than it is, is because it’s inspired by classic VC dress watches from the 1950s, giving it a timeless feel as if it’s always been around. For 2026, Vacheron are introducing a visual update to the collection with the launch of a new Fiftysix Self-Winding and Fiftysix Complete Calendar.

Both the new watches feature updated 40mm diameter cases in steel with the three-hand model measuring 9.6mm thickness and the Complete Calendar 11.6mm. This the first time that the calendar edition has been presented in steel, but in terms of overall proportions both versions match existing self-winding and calendar references. What has been updated is the finishing because instead of a full polish, they now feature a combination of polished and brushed surfaces.

The lugs, case body and flanks are vertically brushed while the bevelled edges, crown and bezel are polished. Visually, it adds a lot more depth to the creation, altering the way that light interacts with the case and adding emphasis to the lines and facets of the design. The lugs especially stand out a lot more now, which is good because they’re a direct reference to the Maltese cross lugs of the vintage Ref. 6073 that inspired the Fiftysix collection. Another impact of the new finishing is that the case is a little darker and less shiny, giving the steel a more practical, utility-focussed look that suits the material.

Another significant update can be seen on the Fiftysix Self-Winding and Complete Calendar dials. Every Fiftysix in the existing collection has monotone displays in single block colours, but the 2026 duo introduces multi-tone dials with both light and dark shades of their focal colours on display – that colour being silver-grey for each. The Self-Winding has a light grey centre with a dark grey chapter ring for the hour scale and then light again for the peripheral minute scale, creating a clear sector-style layout. The Complete Calendar inverts that with a dark centre (with a slight gradient), light hour scale and dark peripheral pointer date. The moonphase above 6 o’clock is also dark grey to match the centre of the display.

Inside, the Fiftysix Self-Winding houses the calibre 1326 with 48-hour power reserve. As the name indicates, it has automatic winding via a rotor, which is a reference to the fact that the Ref. 6073 and the watches that inspired the collection were among Vacheron Constantin’s first automatic watches. The Fiftysix Complete Calendar is powered by the calibre 2460 QCL/1 with 40-hour power reserve. Being a complete calendar rather than annual or perpetual means that it will need adjusting at the end of all months that don’t end in 31 days.

For pricing, the Self-Winding is £12,600 and the Complete Calendar is £29,600, tax included. That’s the same price as previous models for the Self-Winding but a new price point for the Calendar since it’s the first time this complication and case material have been combined.

More details at Vacheron Constantin.