Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B vs Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A

In-Depth Comparison

The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B and the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Blancpain and Blancpain is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Villeret reference was introduced in 2012, while this Villeret reference debuted in 2014. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B beats the Caliber 6950 caliber offering a 72-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 35 jewels. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A is powered by the Caliber 1150 with a 100-hour power reserve operating at 21,600 vph featuring 29 jewels. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A wins on power reserve with a 28-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B features a 40.0mm case at 10.7mm thick with a 47.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18k Rose Gold. The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A comes in at 40.0mm and 7.7mm thick with 47.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from 18k Rose Gold. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 62g, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished, double stepped bezel, while the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A features Sapphire box crystal crystal with a Fixed, polished, double stepped bezel. On the wrist, the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B comes on a Brown alligator leather strap with 18k rose gold folding clasp, while the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A is fitted with Brown alligator leather strap featuring 18k rose gold pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B lists for $17,600 compared to $16,900 for the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A. On the secondary market, the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B trades around $14,000 while the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A commands approximately $14,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 6669-3642-55B and the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate 6223-3642-55A is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.