
Blomman Mr Blue takes readers on a journey back to 1976, exploring the Girard-Perregaux Olimpico Chronograph reference 9245 FA. This post, part two of a series, delves into the distinctive design and historical context of this particular Olimpico model. Blomman Mr Blue highlights how the watch embodies the "funky" aesthetic of its era, inviting collectors to appreciate its unique character.
Friends,
Let’s continue the Girard-Perregaux 1976 Olimpico Chronographs journey with the part #2: reference 9245 FA!
1976 the year of the Montreal Olympic Games:
The Wings topped the Billboard list with the Silly Love Song…
Jimmy Carter wins the US presidential election.
Apple Computer Company is formed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
Here in Sweden ABBA was constant on the radio with Money, Money, Money, Knowing Me/Knowing You and Dancing Queen…
And the Swedish King Carl Gustaf marries his Queen Silvia!
Yes, a lot has changed since 1976, But not the 9245!
The reference 9245 FA is probably the most Funky of all the Olimpico Chronographs!
Also the only(?) two register Olimpico chronograph, while all the others are three register (hour and minutes), the 9245 is a 45 minutes chronograph.
The wide bulky tonneau shaped case looks big but are in fact not that big.
40 mm across and 42.5 mm lug to lug.
The lugs are basically non-existing and integrated with the case.
The wide case also works like a guard for the pushers which are located half way into the case.
The two register chrono gives the watch a very symmetrical look.
Imagine how cool this watch would look without the crown and the pushers!
Running seconds at nine and the 45 minute counter at three.
The color scheme makes the 9245 look like an inverted “Panda”.
The broad baton hands and the patina on the luminous material make this a very charming looking watch!
Girard-Perregaux made 1.000 pieces of the reference 9245 in steel.
Retail price back then was CHF 495.
Screw down case back and a lugs size of 20 mm.
Inside is the GP caliber 24-0, 13 lines based on the Valjoux 236, 21.600 A/h.
As most of these Funky 70’s watches, this one is very comfortable on the wrist!
And lucky for me, the grey-blue-blackish dial goes very well with blue (90% of all my shirts have a blue base)!
This is not the end of the Girard-Perregaux 1976 Olimpico Chronographs.
Stay tuned for part #3!
And to finish this post: a classic Blomman shot.
Best
Blomman
Related posts, Girard-Perregaux 1968 Olimpico Chronographs:
8846 N, part #1 www.watchprosite.com
8846 N, part #2 www.watchprosite.com
Related posts, Girard-Perregaux 1976 Olimpico Chronographs:
9238 FA, part #1 www.watchprosite.com
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 8846 is a notable chronograph within the brand's Vintage series, often recognized for its association with the Olimpico designation. This reference represents a period when Girard-Perregaux produced chronographs with a distinct aesthetic, appealing to collectors interested in mid-century sports timing instruments. The design cues of the 8846 align with the broader Vintage collection, emphasizing classic proportions and a functional layout, making it a representative example of the brand's chronograph offerings from its era.
The case of the 8846 is typically presented in stainless steel, housing a manual-wind chronograph movement. While specific dimensions can vary slightly between examples, it generally features a case diameter around 38mm, a size considered classic for chronographs of its period. The watch is fitted with a Hesalite crystal, common for chronographs of this type, contributing to its vintage character. The movement, often a Valjoux-based caliber, provides reliable chronograph functionality.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate vintage chronographs with a strong brand heritage and a connection to specific historical designations like Olimpico. Its relatively understated design and robust construction make it a practical choice for daily wear while retaining collector interest. The 8846 fits into the broader narrative of Girard-Perregaux's history as a manufacturer of precision timepieces, including those with sporting applications, and is sought after for its specific design and mechanical attributes.
Thank you Blomman, the brief notes about the "small facts of the year" are really nice. I'd like to see something like this in every "vintage review". I agree on your idea about how cool this watch would look without the crown and the pushers. Ciao, Elio
Now, two register Olimpico's. Here is a photo of a different one that surfaced some time ago on the web, but I'm not sure it is genuine, although it looks like it is. CC Photo Credit: WWW
looking at it again closer, the dial is identical to the 9245, which we know was available with white dial and black subdials. I suspect the lollipop seconds hand does not belong to this watch and the dial/case combination may have been done afterwards. I believe this dial belongs into the 9245 case...
Pure elegance. As pure as it gets!!!!!!!!
Thx for your kind sharing & lovely bkgd infos.. Can\'t wait for the next part, & my Chrono favs, hopefully then included ! Cheers & Best, hs
Of how and why the watch ended up looking as is does! Thank you, Elio. Indeed, it would look super cool without the crown and pushers! Best Blomman
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