Girard-Perregaux 1966 Small Seconds Review
Review

Girard-Perregaux 1966 Small Seconds Review

By flamenco · Jan 27, 2013 · 44 replies
flamenco
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
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Flamenco shares a personal journey into the world of Girard-Perregaux, culminating in a review of the 1966 Small Seconds. This article addresses common perceptions about GP and explains how this particular reference captivated the author, transforming their view of the brand. Flamenco's detailed impressions cover the watch's aesthetics, craftsmanship, and overall appeal, offering a fresh perspective on a historically rich but often overlooked manufacture.


Do you remember the last time you gasped when you saw a beautiful timepiece... This is the story of my journey into the world of GP. 


While GP as a company has a long (over 220 years of watchmaking), and celebrated history of creating chronometric watches, it has been largely over looked by many collectors for several reasons (not restricted), 

- Quality of finishing in relation to ALS, PP, VC amongst others. This of course arguable if u reach the upper echlons of Golden Bridges (which becomes out of reach of mere mortals)

- Price of GP watches often fall on the wrong side of a Lange (for example) 

- Poor residual value (which of course is a general observation)

- Designs that harks back to dayz of classics which may not appeal to many today, influenced by the big, heft and brutish

All of the above are common feedback when I asked about why do u not already own a GP in your vast collection ... 


Naturally, I had the same train of thought, until ...... this very special piece came along ..... 


Poetry, balance, harmony, beauty are the most common terms associated with this watch. To which I all agree and more... 


Its quite simply a work of art and IMO the best of GP in decades



Casework:- 

Pink gold case
Diameter: 40 mm
Antireflective sapphire crystal
Sapphire case-back
Water resistance: 30 meters

40mm of well crafted pose gold.


Due to the size of the movement, the watch has a relatively thick bezel.


Well designed lugs make for a very comfortable feel on the wrist. 


Side profile reveals a slimness that would woo anyone looking for a perfect dress watch. 
Easy to fit under shirt cuffs. Very understated and unobtrusive with a tuxedo. 

Beautiful fluted crown. Perfectly sized and well engineered to the touch. 



Dial:- 

The magic of this piece obviously lies in the Grand Feu Dial. A dial like no other.  


Enamel and hand painted. My first enamel and can now appreciate the fuss over such a dial. 


While its not very apparent, the hands are blued to perfection and classic GP. The markers work very well on the enamel dial 


The rail dial lends a vintage and nostalgic feel. The way I like my dress watches .... Classic ! 


Movement:- 

Girard-Perregaux GP03300-50 mechanical self-winding movement
Caliber: 11 ½ ’’’
Frequency: 28,800 vibrations/hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: minimum 46 hours
Jewels: 32

The business end of the watch needs little introduction. A well and truly tested workhorse. 





Buckle:- 

Ardillon and in Pink Gold


With the GP logo nicely etched. Off centre, nice touch. 



Conclusions:-

I truly think I have found my perfect dress watch. That Grand Feu dial, the caswork and the ergonomics all adds up to an excellent timepice, bar none ! 

If you are on the fence about this watch, I strongly suggest u give it a serious consideration. 

U will be charmed ..... as I have ..... 



This message has been edited by dxboon on 2013-01-27 20:16:31 This message has been edited by dxboon on 2013-01-30 07:14:00

About the Horological Meandering Girard Perregaux 1966 Ref. 1966SmallSeconds

The Girard Perregaux 1966 Small Seconds is a notable offering within the 1966 collection, distinguished by its dedicated small seconds sub-dial, which provides a classic and balanced aesthetic. This particular configuration emphasizes traditional watchmaking principles and a focus on legibility, appealing to collectors who appreciate understated design and mechanical purity. It represents a refined approach to a dress-oriented timepiece, suitable for various formal and business settings without being overtly ornate. The model is positioned as a versatile option for those seeking a sophisticated yet practical watch.

This reference typically features a case crafted from precious metals, often white gold, with a diameter of 38mm. The movement is an in-house automatic caliber, known for its slim profile and reliable performance, offering a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance, while the caseback is also sapphire, allowing for a view of the finely finished movement. The design prioritizes comfort and wearability, making it suitable for daily use.

The 1966 Small Seconds appeals to collectors seeking a watch that embodies traditional horological values and a discreet presence on the wrist. It complements other models in the 1966 series, which are generally characterized by their classical proportions and focus on fundamental complications. The watch is often presented with a clean dial, sometimes in silver or opaline finishes, further enhancing its timeless appeal. Its enduring design ensures its relevance within a diverse collection.

Specifications

Caliber
GP03300-0051
Case
White Gold
Diameter
38mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
DX
dxboon
Jan 27, 2013

This is one of my favorite pieces in the GP portfolio. Very elegant, very classy. :-) The dial is just right for my taste and the movement is a proven winner. You are going to have a long love affair with this watch, methinks! Enjoy your new beauty! Thanks for the write-up! Cheers, Daos

FL
flamenco
Jan 27, 2013

My way of contributing to the GP board, which admittedly, have been more of a spectator sport for me :) Never been this excited for a long time, and this is magical ! And you truly know what I mean. The list of "I will never sell" jus grew ever so slightly. Thanks again for sharing in my joy !

JM
JMan
Jan 27, 2013

It is such a classic watch. I am in love with the enameled dial. One of these days, I have to pull the trigger on it..... J.

AM
amanico
Jan 27, 2013

It was a great morning pleasure to read you. The plain enamel dial and the nicely shaped case are tow major assets of this watch, for sure. The pin buckle brings a lot of wear comfort, once the watch on the wrist. I understand how happy you can be! Best, and congratulations, my friend. Nicolas.

FL
flamenco
Jan 28, 2013

Yes indeed a timeless classic. One that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. Let us know when it rests on your wrist.

FL
flamenco
Jan 28, 2013

And the pleasure is all mine :) As you put it , comfort and beauty are hallmarks of this timpiece. I am not just happy , I am ecstatic ! My only regret .... not getting the watch earlier ! Now that I am opened to the world of GP , the chrono (which Andrew has reviewed) looks quite a possibility ! Thank you again !

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