Review
Blomman Mr Blue offers an in-depth review and live photos of the Girard-Perregaux 1966 Guilloché dial watches, presented at Baselworld 2015. This article delves into the historical context of GP's dial designs, showcasing how the brand has evolved its aesthetic approach to dividing watch faces. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate guilloché technique and its application in both men's and women's models.
Friends,
Last week we saw the press release of the GP 1966 Guilloché dial. The press release included both his and her watch; I like to offer you a closer look on both of them!
Historically, Girard-Perregaux has been trying several different ways to divide a dial into different sectors.
Everything from the classic cross hair dial:
To more complicated patterns like this one:
Or the more square one like the Damier line:
This Guilloché dial reminds me a lot of this Gyromatic from 1964:
But the resemblance of the dial stops there, on the vintage it is thin lines to mark the different sectors…
On the Guilloché dial, the reflection in the pattern is what makes it look like different sectors!
If we start to have a look at “his” watch, reference 49525-52-133-BB60:
The Pink Gold case is 38 mm in diameter, with the characteristic short curved 1966 lugs. Leaf hands and applied indexes at 12, 3, 6 and 9 in Pink Gold.
For me, this watch is all about the dial! If we zoom in and have a closer look at the delicate Guilloché pattern it is just stunning!
The Guilloché pattern gives the dial a lot of life. For each difference in angle and light the dial changes in infinity!
Inside is the automatic caliber GP03300-00030-OM5A, 25.60 mm in diameter and only 3.20 mm thick. Here I wonder if the data in the press release is correct, since 1 ligne=2.2558291 mm and the movement is 11 1/2 ’’’ which is approximate 25.94 mm. Either way, it is a quite small movement for a watch of this size. Which explains why the date window being located very far into the dial.
Now let’s have a look at “hers” watch, reference: 49528D52A131-CB6A
The Pink Gold case is 30 mm in diameter which is the smallest of all GP 1966 cases. On the bezel is 60 brilliant-cut diamonds ~0.55 carat, adding a female touch to the watch.
It might look a bit “blingy”, but in real it is very sober and discrete. A perfect balance between “anonymous” and “in your face”.
Two key elements separating the “hers” from “his” is the lack of central second hand and date window. Would have loved to see a “his” version without the date…
Inside is the caliber GP03200-0005, 25.30 mm (10 1/2 ’’’ approximate 23.69 mm?) in diameter and 3.20 mm thick.
This is not the first time GP made a Guilloché dial for her. On this new watch the pattern arc is with the arc in towards the center of the dial…
But earlier we have seen Guilloché dial on a ladies GP 1966 but the arc out from the center of the dial.
Here you see the two side-by-side:
The effect is very different! Of course the diamonds on the dial and the applied XII and VI helps separating these two as well!
Here are the two new “his” and “hers” Guilloché dial:
Remember a couple of weeks ago I showed you a document from the 1950’s where GP promoted “His and Hers” watches?
Girard-Perregaux still does it – in a stunning way!
What do you think, is time to get a watch for you and for your wife/girlfriend/mistress…?!
Best
Blomman
[Spelling edit]
This message has been edited by MTF on 2015-02-24 06:14:31 This message has been edited by blomman on 2015-02-28 01:32:22The 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.
I especially love the one from 1964 with its very special dial. And 1964 is a year which speaks a lot to me. ;) Back to the novelties, the lady version is top. Remove the diamonds, and we are not far from a masterpiece. The men's version has a sublime dial, spoiled by a too centered date. A pity, because the work on the dial is great. Best, and thanks for this great article, my friend. Nicolas
I particularly also like the 1964 version. While looking at history, let's also include the more recent 2498 and 2499 with the same Guilloche radial pattern. CC
Yes, the 1964 is really cool! :) As for the Novelty - here we agree, remove the date and.... But keep the central second! Best Blomman
Yes, let us not forget the more recent past... You collection of GP'sis incredible! :) Best, my friend Blomman
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