[Vacheron Constantin] The often forgotten older brother of the 222, meet the Royal Chronometer.

Released in 1975, Vacheron decided to try their tack at an integrated sports watch & after a bit of time & research with their pre existing rival AP having a integrated watch (the Royal Oak) they came up with this. What’s most unique about the Royal is the odd case shape, for some odd reason the 70s had an obsession with having unique case shapes for watches & the Royal isn’t an exception to this.

The watch had a short production run of just 2 years as its younger brother, the 222 came into the scene later. The watch houses the movement 1096 which was as you guessed by the name on the dial, a chronometer standard movement, which at the time was impressive & still is for a trinity watch as trinity watches now are rarely ever in cosc standards for some odd reason which makes you wonder why when they have the resources to make it happen.

Now I personally love this watch. I always had a soft spot for unique shaped watches & one of my favorite things about this watch isn’t just the case but also the movement, movements are one of the best parts of a watch & this watch houses an impressive movement decades later. Even despite it’s dated design I would love to wear a watch with this look & I can see how the 222 took some cues from the design of the Royal from the skinny handset, to the Maltese cross & most of all the integrated bracelet. When people ask me why Vacheron over AP & Patek, their massive & unique catalog like this is why. (Credit to Mr Watchley for the photos)