Vintage
Blomman Mr Blue continues his 'Vintage GP Journey' series, this time spotlighting the Girard Perregaux 8867 W. This installment delves into the allure of vintage divers, presenting a detailed look at a specific reference and inviting community discussion on its unique appeal compared to other brands.
Friends,
Let’s continue this vintage summer menu!
You know the drill by now; let’s bring out the tray...
My guess is that this box does not belong to the watch, but the purple makes it a very pretty box.
So, let’s open and see what’s inside.
Yes, as stated in the title: GP 8867 W.
The Deep Diver ref. 8867 was produced in 1966/67. 400 watches were made in 1966 (8867 V) and 1000 in 1967(8867 W). Mine belongs to the 1967 batch.
According to the records from the Manufacture, the 8867 came with the calibre GP 32-19, 25 jewels and as you can see in this photo from the production card, the hands are shaped like on the ladies Deep Diver ref. 8953.
Here the 8953.
My 8867 W has other hands than on the production card. Replaced? Maybe not, have a look at this ad.
Same hands... Waterproof to 200 m.
The case has a perfect size for me; 39 mm in diameter. Actually, the case size is not the only thing that that I really love about this watch.
Look at the shape of the lugs, polished with brushed sides... Outer bezel...
Does this look familiar? To me, yes! 
Two of my all-time favourite vintage divers happen to be very similar...
Can you name them? 
As you can see the resemblance is there: black diver, outside bezel, 39 mm in diameter, 19 mm lugs.
The Deep Sea Alarm separates from the others by not having a rotating bezel, the second crown and the way the case back is crewed down.
A Seahorse, a Trident (you recognize it from today’s
Sea Hawk) and a Frogman. Three symbols of the nautical theme which I have come
to love!
All three has automatic movements, but function wise they are different. The Omega calibre 501, no date and the JLC calibre 815, bumper, no date, but has the additional alarm.
You may think that it’s not fair of me to compare this lesser known Deep Diver with two of the most famous diving watches from the 50’s? Well, since I have had the fortune to be able to compare the three I have to say that the 8867 hold its own!
Yes, it is an almost 10 years younger watch, which of course it benefits from in a technical perspective. More efficient automatic movement, better material in the bezel and crystal.
A true diver’s watch!
What can I say; the Deep Diver series has taken me by storm! Now I need to go deeper into this line…
Only problem is to find these fantastic watches.
The 8867 and the 9076 side by side.
And on the wrist, heaven…
I hope you have enjoyed this second part of the summer
menu!
More to come…
Best
Blomman
This message has been edited by blomman on 2014-07-03 00:14:12The Girard-Perregaux Deep Divers, specifically the 9076 reference, represents a significant entry in the brand's history of robust sports watches. These models were part of a broader trend in the mid-20th century where watch manufacturers developed timepieces capable of withstanding demanding aquatic environments, catering to the growing interest in diving and outdoor activities. The 9076 series is recognized for its distinctive case designs and functional aesthetics, characteristic of its era.
While specific movement details for the 9076 are not always widely publicized, these watches typically housed reliable automatic movements, often based on ebauches from reputable manufacturers, finished and regulated by Girard-Perregaux. The cases were designed for water resistance, featuring screw-down casebacks and often rotating bezels, essential for dive timing. The dials were typically legible, with luminous markers and hands for visibility in low-light conditions.
For collectors, the Girard-Perregaux 9076 Deep Divers are appreciated for their historical context within the brand's sports watch lineage and their authentic vintage appeal. Their robust construction and distinctive design language make them sought-after examples of mid-century tool watches. The availability of original components and documentation further enhances their desirability among enthusiasts.
Isn't it exactly the same case than the Omega and JLC, made by Hugunenin Freres, if I remember correctly? Even the date doesn't disturb me, on this one, which means a lot. You go very fast, my friend. Bravo huge congratulations! Nicolas
Watch is just awesome and when compared to Omega and JLC I again can't understand how underrated GP is (but maybe for the best ;) ) Honestly I like this diver much more than Omega and JLC brother (OK let the roast begin :) ) Now what made my day is the way they "made" 6,9 & 12 hour markers so cool! Watch is awesome box is gorgeous but what killed me is that GP knife :) Where did you find it??? :) Bravo and congrats my friend Yours Damjan
Thank you, my friend! :) Yes, this spring I had a jumping start into the GP vintage world... Actually I have a couple more to show you in due time. Best Blomman
You are right, my friend! I know we do not speak about prices here, but yes, GP is very underrated! I wonder if it is because of information and knowledge or because there are very few around... ? It can't be due to quality, that I am very sure of! Best Blomman
Especially on the tropical strap! I'm not necessarily that keen on vintage watches, but vintage divers I do like and a specimen like this: wow. Much better than all the remakes / re-editions. It's not the real thing in the end. Congrats!
He uses this detective .... He has him on a retainer and uses the fact that Wallander is his neighbor. He wakes up, call Kurt W. and done. Any watch. Cheers, Nilo Note: Very nice detective movie (I saw the entire series in Swedish and then the BBC one).
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