Girard Perregaux 1966 Sub-Second Ref. 49543

Blomman Mr Blue offers a detailed comparison of two Girard Perregaux 1966 Sub-second at nine models, specifically references 49543 in white and copper-colored dials. His post highlights the subtle yet significant differences in these 'flavors' of a beloved GP model, providing collectors with a nuanced look at design variations within the 1966 collection.

Friends,

We all know that the GP 1966 is a sweet caramel….!

The interesting here is how many different “flavors” this caramel comes in.

I had the chance to see the two sub-second at nine versions and realized the big differences between the two!

The two versions are white and copper colored.

The base is the same: the big case in Pink gold. Measurements are 41 mm in diameter and 10.01 mm thick. Notable is that the bezel is (looks?) thinner on the 41 mm case than on the 40 mm case.

Inside is the automatic caliber GP01890-0003.

Both have the characteristic leaf hands in Pink Gold and white date wheel…

But here it stops.

If you look closely, the indexes are very different from the GP 1966 with central second. The white date wheel on the white dial looks good; here I don’t mind the date at all.

Indexes applied on every hour while the central second version only has applied indexes on the quarters. Also the shape is different. The sub-second has winder, tapered shaped indexes while the central second have thin straight indexes.

Here is a shot for comparison:

Next is the minute track. Quite big and strong while on most GP 1966 there is none.

To me, it is OK but I kind of like the clean approach of the dial without.

Before we zoom in anymore, let’s have a look at the copper version:

Same applied Pink gold indexes and the same minute track. Here the minute track doesn’t stand out as much as on the white dial. BUT, the white date wheel burns a hole in the dial….

On the blue Girard-Perregaux also opted for the white date. Not the best solution, IMO. But here the otherwise monochromatic watch really take a hit! The pink gold/copper tone is beautiful and then suddenly a big white window…

What I do prefer on the copper dial is the less pronounced “Automatic”. The font is (looks?) smaller than on the white dial.

Not sure if my eye’s play me a trick or if the GP logo also is bigger on the white dial. Bigger in the sense of thicker font, not wider.

Well, after been able to look closer on both the sub-second at nine versions I must say that I am not sure which one is my favorite.

Both are very nice and well-made as all GP 1966!

The copper dial have an edge over the white for being a more uncommon dial color, but the date blends in better on the white…

While undecided, I am very happy with another GP 1966 sub-second that I know is a favorite!

And you? Which one is your favorite?

Best

Blomman