Girard-Perregaux Abarth
Vintage

Girard-Perregaux Abarth "Havana Dial" Vintage Watch

By this_hobby_of_hours · Feb 20, 2025 · 37 replies
this_hobby_of_hours
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
37 replies5028 views9 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In this insightful post, 'this_hobby_of_hours' delves into the fascinating world of neo-vintage Girard-Perregaux, spotlighting a rare Abarth 'Havana dial' chronograph. He meticulously details the unique customizations and rich backstory of this limited-edition reference, offering a compelling case for the distinctive charm of watches from this era. His exploration provides valuable context for collectors interested in the provenance and design philosophy behind special commission timepieces.

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Quiet Luxury.

The video 🔊 can be found on my IG:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGSAvl5BKDg/?igsh=MWIwdHBubzU5eDM2Nw==

One of the many reasons I especially love the NEO-vintage era. Some special ones with provenance behind the timepieces.

🤝

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The back-story of the Girard-Perregaux Abarth:

Ref 4946
38 mm
50 pieces made
Double signed dial

Made specially as a limited edition for Abarth Gallery, Japan 🇯🇵

The “regular” GP ref 4946 is a beauty in itself.

But the folks in Japan requested both dial and movement to be customised even further.

From a 3-register chronograph, it was customized to be a bi-compax with date removed. Running seconds on the right sub-dial and a 30 minute chronograph counter on the left. Perfectly balanced, no partially eaten numbers.

We also seee the white metal applied Breguet numerals on the “Havana” dial

We see “Abarth” on the display caseback with the individual LE number engraved.

Off catalog, this was provided as a special order for specific clients in Japan in 2003. Both fans of GP as well as fans of Italian performance automotives.

Gino Macaluso, born in Turino 🇮🇹, was himself once a champion rally car driver and the Fiat Abarth 124 took him to many titles. Macaluso would one day become the owner of GP (circa 1990-2010)

So to show his appreciation and love for both the Abarth and his friends in Japan, Gino bent the rules when approached to make a special timepiece.

🤝


























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

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The Discussion
BR
brauner
Feb 20, 2025

An old pic from a GP I do not own anymore. Sad thing.

TH
this_hobby_of_hours
Feb 20, 2025

Tell us more about this special one please? 🤝

AR
Arronax
Feb 20, 2025

No date, no screw down pushers, no hype, just pure unaltered pleasure!

MA
Marc Obermann
Feb 20, 2025

It's not difficult to see why you like it as it just looks so right enjoy it in good health. Marc

TH
this_hobby_of_hours
Feb 20, 2025

Tobacco or Havana dials are amazing when done right. 🤝

TH
this_hobby_of_hours
Feb 20, 2025

Neo-vintage GP … some very rare and beautiful birds (some undocumented) for those who know and and driven to look beyond the mainstream. 🤝

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