New Release
AndrewD provides an insightful look at the Girard-Perregaux 1945 Lady, a Baselworld 2013 release that blends Art Deco aesthetics with modern mechanical watchmaking. His post highlights the watch's distinctive curved case and integrated diamonds, emphasizing its elegance and comfort. AndrewD also delves into the new GP02700 manufacture movement, underscoring its compact size and innovative technical features tailored for ladies' watches.
The Vintage 1945 collection channels the Art Deco period and the watches are both distinctive and comfortable on the wrist due to their curved case back. The new 1945 Lady released this week at BaselWorld allows ladies to enjoy mechanical watchmaking with style that hasn’t gone out of fashion.
The watches come in steel, but are dressed up with a row of diamonds on each side. So we have both straight lines and curves that are perfectly harmonised. The crown is partially integrated into the case to keep the lovely lines of the watch.
The dial, which follows the curve of the case, is available in silver or anthracite with a discreet date at the 6 o’clock position. In steel, this is the perfect daily wearer, but with a touch of style and femininity from the discreet placement of diamonds. And you can choose either a black or white strap, depending on your mood. I like the symmetry of the dial and the dauphine hands.
The caliber design can be adapted to displaying the seconds either at the center or on a subdial at 9 o’clock or 10 o’clock, without an extra module. Depending on the configuration, the use of a double third wheel allows the seconds hand wheel to be integrated with the going train and thus avoid the use of friction springs. Regardless of where it is located, the seconds hand jump is clean and does not require any specific setting from the watchmakers. Finally, the balance wheel bridge is supported at both ends and allows for greater precision in adjusting the play of the balance wheel giving both long-term reliability and simplified regulation. The GP02700 is on view through a sapphire case back.
Technical specifications
Steel case
Dimensions: 28.20 x 27.85 mm
Glass: anti-glare sapphire
Case back: sapphire glass closed with 4 screws
Water resistance: 30 meters
Gem setting
Bezel: 30 diamonds
Dial: 2 diamonds
Total gems: 32 diamonds (~ 0.55 ct)
Girard-Perregaux Movement GP02700-0003
Self-winding mechanical movement
Caliber: 8 3/4 ’’’
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 36 hours minimum
Jewels: 26 jewels
Functions: hour, minute, date
White alligator strap
Steel folding clasp
Reference: 25860D11A121-CK7A (silver dial)
Black alligator strap
Steel folding clasp
Reference: 25860D11A221-CK6A (anthracite dial)The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 line, introduced in 1994, draws inspiration from historical models, specifically a 1945 Art Deco piece. This collection is characterized by its rectangular or tonneau-shaped cases and a design language that evokes mid-20th century aesthetics. The Vintage 1945 series quickly became a cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux's offerings in the 1990s, reinterpreting classic forms with contemporary watchmaking standards. It represents a significant period for the brand in re-establishing its heritage-inspired collections.
Early models in the Vintage 1945 series typically featured stainless steel cases, though gold variants were also produced. The case dimensions varied depending on the specific model, often presenting a balanced profile suitable for dress wear. These watches were frequently equipped with automatic movements, showcasing Girard-Perregaux's in-house capabilities or finely finished outsourced calibers. The crystal was commonly sapphire, ensuring durability and legibility, while water resistance was generally suitable for daily wear rather than aquatic activities.
For collectors, the Vintage 1945 series appeals to those interested in neo-vintage watches that successfully blend historical design with modern execution. The 1994 introduction year marks it as one of the earlier and more influential lines from Girard-Perregaux's resurgence in the 1990s. Its various iterations, including time-only, small seconds, and later complicated versions, offer a range of choices for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive rectangular watch with a clear lineage.
Very interesting to see that GP worked on a new movement for this one. I quite like the decoration on the rotor. Thanks for the news! Best, Nicolas.
... curve around the wrist, no matter the size. And making the curve of the dial follow the watch case is inspired. Thanks for your comments, Nicolas. Andrew
This thread is active on the Girard Perregaux forum with 3 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
