Discussion
blomman Mr Blue initiates a 'mind game' to reimagine the Girard-Perregaux 1966 Column-Wheel Chronograph, addressing common community critiques regarding its design. By digitally modifying the watch to remove the date, shrink the case to 38mm, and eliminate the inner scale, he sparks a discussion on ideal chronograph aesthetics and market viability.
I have been looking a lot at the Girard-Perregaux 1966 Column-Wheel Chronograph lately.
We all have different tastes in watches but some of the more common opinions I read about this watch –
Should be without date.
Smaller case to match the movement size (40 mm / 25.60 mm).
Remove the inner scale.
This is not something I normally do or would encourage anybody to do, but let’s play a little mind game –
We remove the date, we shrink the case down to 38 mm and we remove the inner scale.
To compensate for the date window we also move the chronograph text a bit down to fill the space.
Interesting observation, we do mind when it is written “Automatic” on the dial, but no one objects to “Chronograph”…
PLEASE NOT: THE RIGHT WATCH IS NOT A REAL GP WATCH!
So, what do you think? Is it really a better looking watch?
For me the space between index and the sub-dials becomes too big.
Maybe if moving the index closer to the center, enhance the minute track or like on a classic chrono, put the scale outside the minute track...
Food for thoughts!
Would love to hear your thoughts!
Best
Blomman
The Girard Perregaux 1966 Chronograph is a notable offering within the brand's classically styled 1966 collection, distinguished by its integrated chronograph function. This reference emphasizes traditional watchmaking aesthetics combined with a practical complication, positioning it as a more technically involved piece compared to time-only or simple date models within the same line. It represents Girard Perregaux's commitment to horological complications in a refined, understated package. The design adheres to the collection's established visual language, ensuring continuity while introducing enhanced functionality.
This particular iteration features a 40 mm case crafted from white gold, providing a substantial yet luxurious feel on the wrist. The watch is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, the GP03300-0064 caliber, which is visible through a sapphire case back. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance. The case dimensions contribute to a balanced presence, aligning with contemporary preferences for moderately sized chronographs.
For collectors, the 1966 Chronograph appeals to those seeking a sophisticated chronograph from a respected manufacture, without overt sporting pretensions. Its white gold case and classic design make it suitable for formal wear, while the chronograph complication adds a layer of horological interest. The choice of a display case back allows appreciation of the movement's finishing. This reference stands as a solid example of Girard Perregaux's capabilities in producing complicated watches with a focus on traditional design principles.
Better without. Now, the absence of date is really great. Put the indexes at the place of the grey ring, and the tachymeter at the outer part of the dial, remove GP. Just let Girard Perregaux. Use a white metal case: Palladium, Steel, white gold or platinum. Change the color of the dial: Blue, Black, or white depending on the white metal you use. And we have a winner... Best, Nicolas
I think designing a dial / watch case is a very complex undertaking. The original has been designed with all the elements in mind, so the type of Index go along with the inner tachy scale and the placement of the subdials with the intention of a date window. Same for the case size and its proportions, bezel thickness etc. So, if we want a PursistS two-register Chrono in 38mm, no date, then I'm afraid it's going back to the drawing board starting with an empty sheet. It will probably require new
right one ;) :) with inner scale Best D
Improvement but not perfect. Loosing the date a inner scale is a good idea. I think loosing the grey circle and 'chronograph' would be even better. In that case the indexes should move outward a little, they are too close to the center now. There you have it, a clean but powerful chrono. Cheers!
Well, I think it would be doable! Let me check... Best Blomman
Well, I will see if I can do a sketch... Best Blomman
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