Vintage
Crown comfort presents a detailed review of his Girard-Perregaux Chronometer HF, Reference 9086 FN, a vintage piece from the early 1970s. This article delves into the watch's distinctive features, such as its C-shape case and the high-frequency Caliber 42.4 movement, offering valuable insights for collectors interested in GP's chronometer heritage.
Friends,
I have one more Easter Egg in my bag I can show you. Lately, we had a lot of discussions on the Girard-Perregaux Chronometer HFs and especially on the 1966/67 achievement of certifying the entire production of HF movements 32A at the Neuchatel Observatory.
Even though the actual Chronometer competition at the Neuchatel Observatory ended in 1967, Chronometer specifications continued and despite the rise of Quartz accuracy in the early 70s, GP did continue to make HF mechanical watches with Chronometer certification.
A splendid example is the C-Shape 9086 Reference from the early 70s. And one very special one is the blue dial 9086 FN
Yes, that blue dial. It has struck me years ago when Blomman introduced his blue 9086 Chronometer HF
We all know the connection of Blue and Girard-Perregaux, so this was a watch I had to hunt.
While I have come across many C-Shape Chronometer HFs and I even added some into my collection, finding the blue turned out much harder than I thought.
But, with patience and perseverance you will eventually get there and now Iโm happy to report, I can show you my example and provide a short review.
First, there is the known C-Shape case. It is distinctively late 60s look and I always wondered why it is not as popular today anymore. I just find it very classic and working very well with moderately sized cases, like 35-36mm. Maybe thatโs a reason why it is not as popular anymore as most modern watches are simply bigger. A real shame.
The blue dial provides many shades of blue. It can be almost black and then again very blue. The effect comes from the vertical brushed blue that is very hard to capture.
Inside you have the high frequency (36000 vph) movement 42.4, which is an evolution from the famous 32A. It comes with the Gyromatic winding, date window with fast date setting (between 20:30 and 24:00h, not via the crown) and seconds stop for accurate setting.
The movement is shielded with an antimagnetic lid.\
The High Frequency beat provides a very smooth seconds hand that has virtually no jumps observable by the naked eye.
On the wrist, the watch works very well for me. Great size, many interesting details and the blue dial changing its look depending on light.
Finally, to wrap things up, letโs take a look at my C-Shape case family of Chronometer HFs.
We have two 8795 with 32A and two 9086 with Cal. 42.
Best,
CC
I am a big fan of Chronometer HFs and your blue is probably my favourite of the lot. Now all I need is a lot more time than my situation currently allows, so as to commence the hunt
Yes, the blue dial adds something extra to the watch! I had a good laugh reading you comment to my original post... Almost 4 years to the date - "you make me rethink to look at GPs from that era"... You have done more than just "looked", my friend! Wonderful! Best Blomman
Hehe, I didn't read my comment. You're right, I did slightly more than "re-looking" at that era. And I blame YOU!
Add its chronometric value, and you have a keeper. Best, Nicolas
Your quartet, of course,is simply great ! Thx for sharing & your so nice pics ! Hs. PS: Congrats to this new arrival of course, needless to say, a winner !!
Yes, touching is better! And, you are welcome! Best Blomman
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