Girard-Perregaux 4946: Vintage Black Dial Chronograph
Vintage

Girard-Perregaux 4946: Vintage Black Dial Chronograph

By imrootbeer7 · Mar 3, 2026 · 20 replies
imrootbeer7
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
20 replies1062 views1 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 ✉ 🔗

Imrootbeer7's recent acquisition of a Girard Perregaux Ref. 4946 chronograph highlights the enduring appeal of vintage timepieces and the satisfaction of a successful eBay find. His experience underscores the unique challenges and rewards of sourcing and personalizing watches with specific design characteristics, such as the need for curved spring bars due to tight lug-to-case proximity. This post serves as a valuable reminder that even minor adjustments can significantly enhance a watch's aesthetic and wearability.

20 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →
Lovely eBay purchase. 3mm taper and soft punched leather. But what a pain to change. Lug holes very close to the case and only curved spring bars will work. But, it was worth the effort! 



About the Girard Perregaux Gyromatic Ref. 4946

The Girard-Perregaux reference 4946 is a notable example from the brand's production during the 1960s, representing a period of design evolution for the manufacturer. This reference is characterized by its understated aesthetic, reflecting the prevailing design sensibilities of the era for dress watches. It offers a clear indication of Girard-Perregaux's approach to automatic timekeeping in a more compact form factor, distinguishing it from larger or more complicated offerings of the time.

The watch features a stainless steel case measuring 34mm in diameter, a size typical for men's watches of its decade. It is fitted with an acrylic crystal, common for watches of this period, providing durability and ease of maintenance. The timepiece is powered by the automatic GP Caliber 39, which provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The dial is presented in a silver finish, complemented by a fixed bezel and a leather strap.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in vintage Girard-Perregaux pieces that embody the brand's mid-century design language and mechanical craftsmanship. Its straightforward date complication and classic proportions make it a versatile piece for those seeking a historically accurate representation of the brand's output. The 4946 offers a glimpse into the foundational elements that would influence later Girard-Perregaux designs.

Specifications

Caliber
GP Cal. 39
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
34mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
QU
quattro
Mar 3, 2026
Looking very good!

Well worth the effort. Best, Emmanuel

GO
Goh
Mar 3, 2026
Well done!

I love the 4946, both yours as well as the creme dial.

IM
imrootbeer7
Mar 3, 2026
Thank you, they’re a lot of watch for the money

L’
L’HeureNoble
Mar 3, 2026
Very cool

Watch! At first glance it looked like a Patek

IM
imrootbeer7
Mar 3, 2026
I’ll take that compliment

BE
Besançon
Mar 3, 2026
[Please Type Something Here]

I love those GP. Lovely. And they go wonderfully with Birkenstocks, for sure. 👍

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Girard Perregaux forum with 20 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →