The Chronomètre Royal name was reserved for Vacheron Constantin’s top of the line models. Produced in wristwatch form beginning in 1953, these models are considered among the brand’s finest watches of the era. The Chronomètre Royal reference 6694 was introduced in 1962, and housed Vacheron Constantin’s first automatic caliber with chronometer certification – the caliber 1072, featuring a chronometric balance and the rotor mounted on ruby ball bearings. Collectors often refer to reference 6694 as “the Batman” due to its wide and dramatic wing-shaped lugs that are instantly recognizable. The present example is a very rare specimen preserved in impressive condition. Not only does it retain all its original textured finishes, it was even delivered with its original and lavish textured Vacheron Constantin Gay Frères white gold bracelet, which is particularly collectible today. Typically, it was done by hand with a hard-tipped tool (today, a diamond-tipped hammer is used), repeatedly beaten into the metal to achieve the directional texture visible throughout. All hallmarks remain crisp and visible, as do the edges and finishes, particularly on the case back. This model is most notably powered by a chronometer movement, meaning that it tells time with great accuracy.