New Release
Blomman Mr Blue introduces the Girard-Perregaux 1966 Large Date and Moon Phases, a significant addition to the brand's classical collection. This post highlights the watch's blend of technical sophistication and elegant design, marking a new milestone for the 1966 series with its integrated complications. The community's initial reactions provide valuable insights into collector preferences for size and dial aesthetics.
This new creation fits perfectly into the Manufacture's long tradition of expertise, paying tribute to the 1960s when the technical and timekeeping innovations developed by Girard-Perregaux were awarded the Neuchâtel Observatory Centenary Prize. The pioneering watchmaker was one of the first to have its own Research & Development department, and in 1966 it introduced the first high-frequency movement that gave its watches an exceptional level of precision. Today, the 1966 collection continues the legacy of integrating useful complications in classical watches known for their aesthetic simplicity and impeccable finish. The case, with a diameter of 41mm, incorporates a slightly domed crystal and a polished, diamond-effect bezel elegantly inclined as part of its refined design. For optimal comfort on the wrist, the horns are also curved, giving the case a pure flowing line. The 1966 collection is enhanced with a moon phases indicator that is particularly beautiful. Linked to the barrel, this function is a wonderful example of Girard-Perregaux expertise.
It is joined, for the first time in the 1966 collection, by a patented large date display. This highly perfected mechanism consists of two superimposed disks built into the GP03300 automatic manufacture movement. It displays the date with no border between the digits for exceptional readability. The upper disk is virtually invisible thanks to its transparency and its thickness of 0.10 mm, equivalent to a sheet of paper.
In an extraordinary technical achievement, the date advances in less than 100th of a second, confirming the quality of the timepiece in terms of advanced watchmaking expertise.
The curved dial is a marvel with applied baton-type markers and curved, polished leaf-shaped hands. This special design is both contemporary and classic - a distinguishing feature of the 1966 collection. The small seconds hand is centred on the moon phases indicator, in the purest watchmaking tradition. The sapphire case-back reveals the movement composed of 290 parts, including its oscillating weight decorated with Côtes de Genève. Sophisticated finishing is a specialty of Girard-Perregaux. This collection is available in white or pink gold, on an alligator leather strap that highlights its timeless character inspired by the Manufacture's heritage that spans more than two centuries.
Girard-Perregaux 1966 Large Date and Moon Phases
Technical specifications
Case
Material: pink or white gold
Diameter: 41 mm
Thickness: 11.22 mm
Crystal: anti-reflective sapphire
Case-back: anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Dial: opaline
Hands: leaf-shaped
Water resistance: 30 metres (3 ATM)
Movement
Reference: GP03300-0110, self-winding mechanical movement
Diameter: 25.60 mm (11 ½’’’)
Height: 4.90 mm
Frequency: 28,800 Vib/h - (4 Hz)
Jewels: 32
Number of components: 290
Power reserve: min. 46 hours
Functions: hour, minute, small second, large date, moon phases indicator
Strap
Material: black alligator leather with stitching
Buckle: pink or white gold pin buckle
References
49546-52-131-BB60 (pink gold)
49546-53-132-BB60 (white gold)
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.
The big date is super nice and innovative. GP did very well here. The dial is very balanced and impressively well designed Bravo! Thanks for sharing these details Blomman Cheers Robin
I will share my thought on this one shortly... But yes, very positive! :) Best Blomman
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