New Release
WHL offers an exclusive look at Girard-Perregaux's 2014 novelties and other impressive timepieces showcased at a recent AD event. The report features detailed photographs and first impressions of new models like the Vintage 1945 Large Date Moonphase and the Tourbillon Neo, providing a glimpse into GP's latest innovations and design directions.
I had the pleasure of attending a Girard-Perregaux event at an AD last month and a host of impressive timepieces was on hand. It is my pleasure to share photographs of them with the forum. Of course one of my favorite timepieces on hand was the new Vintage 1945 in stainless steel with blue dial. Alas, my photographs of it were horrible!! (It also proved to be a popular piece with the clients on hand as a few were sold).
Even more impressive in the Vintage 1945 family was a model that I had not even heard about. It is the open dial Large Date Moonphase, also in stainless steel:
This model is a 2014 novelty and was not for sale, with deliveries expected later this year. A big hit, and it is also going to come in rose gold.
Another 2014 novelty on hand is the Tourbillon Neo, which has a nice impact on the wrist:
The dark finish on the bridges against the rose gold case is attractive . I also like the domed crystal:
GP made this movement from the ground up, matching the movement to the case for a nice fit. The tourbillon cage and balance are noticeably larger than on the previous three bridge models.
Not from the event, but some nice photos just hanging out on my hard drive:
The Constant Force was the featured watch of the evening, with a GP watchmaker on hand to do a partial disassembly and reassembly of the watch:
Now that watch manufacturers have some experience with silicon components it is fascinating to see “second generation” uses of silicon come to market.
Three cheers are also deserved for GP’s wonderful execution of their 1966 Minute Repeater:
The enamel dial with applied Arabics is beautiful, and the finish of the movement is top class:
The sound of this repeater is excellent.
Girard Perregaux has extended the Hawk collection with some new colorful dials. I especially like the blue dial Chrono Hawk, which is now available with stainless steel bracelet:
Girard-Perregaux is now mixing other materials in to the design, and the rose gold partnered with black ceramic is an attractive mix:
And for those who like it all black:
The most expensive piece on display at the event was the tantalum Bi-Axial Tourbillon:
It is enormous, extremely heavy, and technically impressive, but I still prefer the more classic tourbillons from Girard-Perregaux (and others).
Last but not least was a pair of GMT watches, one a novelty from the 1966 collection:
and the other from the Traveller collection, which replaces the original power reserve hand at 4 o’clock with the seconds time zone sundial, for a more useful watch for travelers.
It was great fun to see all the novelties from Baselworld, and it is nice to see Girard-Perregaux continue to bring discipline to its product portfolio. That open dial Vintage 1945 Big-Date Moonphase is on my shortlist.
Thank you for reading.
Bill
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.
Looks like you had a chance to see many of the Novelties! :) The Bi-axial is one of my personal favorites. The Minute Repeater is another one... Best and again, thank you for the report Blomman
One of the wonderful watches from the GP collection. Truly exquisite. I do hope that GP will, someday, release it in white gold! Best, Nicolas
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