the French and English-cased V&Cs were a bit different. Hard to judge with one photo but the lugs are a bit off and I'd be looking for the hallmarks to confirm its origin.
A grail watch for me in any metal or dial and there is still room to raise the bar. The raison d’être of the Chronometre Royal was its chronometric qualities over asthetics. Imagine if it was accompanied by a genuine Observatory Bulletin!
I had to let go of my Gen II chrono because it was too large, was always conscious of banging it against things! The Gen I fits perfectly so it remains a favourite. Also for sentimental reasons since it was my gateway to the brand, as I'm sure it was...
The Gen I bezel, and Gen II for that matter, have 8 “ears” while the III only 6. The pronounced “hips” in the case shape and more complex bracelet design of the Gen III leaves me with the impression that the Gen I is the more sporty in appearance but...
Our first time to the Manufacture remains so vivid, I'm getting misty-eyed thinking about the gang! Here just hoping not to break another pivot... And finally we get our hands on the goodies. IIRC the Traditionelle World Time was the latest novelty.