Collection
In this captivating post, this_hobby_of_hours shares his experience at the Studio Ghibli exhibition in Singapore, using it as a backdrop to showcase a truly unique timepiece. He delves into the fascinating history and distinctive features of his Girard-Perregaux Abarth Ref. 4946, a rare Japanese market-only chronograph. His insights highlight the challenges and rewards of collecting neo-vintage Girard-Perregaux pieces from the Luigi Macaluso era.
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.
Thanks for sharing those great pics with us!
This one is just superb !!
and it is always a pleasure to see your Special Watch, thank you for sharing it with us.
The 3-bridges are a much come in at a much larger price point. So neo-vintage holds so much beauty and value ....
It's tricky because GP archives are not the best. And PETER CDE posts (who was probably the most prolific writer of GP watches from the neo-vintage period) often have broken links in WPS. So it's a lot of piecing together information. Separating fact and conjecture. Looking at old publications physically or those that have been digitized . Looking at old GP catalogs. Speaking with seasoned collectors in their 60's or more. AD's that were active then and now. Old forum posts. Auctions.etc etc. I
If I remember correctly, there is also a silver dialed GP Fiat version around…
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