New Release
SJX's 2012 SIHH report provides a concise overview of Girard-Perregaux's novelties, focusing on updates to their Vintage 1945 and Vintage 1966 lines. His analysis highlights the brand's strategic approach of refining existing models and introducing new variants, including a notable minute repeater.
As has been the case for some years, Girard-Perregaux had a hushed year. All the novelties, save for the minute repeater, are variants of existing models.
New to the Vintage 1945 line is the Large Date Moon Phase. The case is 36.10 mm by 35.25 mm and available in pink gold or steel. It features GP’s patented big date mechanism with a sapphire disc making the date seamless.
Also new is the two-register Vintage 1945 chronograph in steel, previously available only in gold. This has GP’s modular chronograph calibre.
Three years ago saw the launch of the Vintage 1966 annual calendar, this year it is presented in rose gold with a grey dial. All indications can be conveniently adjusted forwards and backwards via the crown; there are no pushers on the case.
The Vintage 1966 line sees the addition of a smaller diameter 36 mm automatic.
And also new is a diamonds pave version.
In another facelift, the 1966 chronograph gets a date window at six and Arabic numerals for the hours.
The last new model in the 1966 line is the Lady Moon Phase. The case is 36 mm in pink or white gold, with diamond bezels and mother of pearl dials. This is a simple, attractive ladies watch. GP does ladies watches rather well, the Cat’s Eye being a well known example, and this is no exception.
Another well known GP line is the ww.tc of world timers. A model in steel with a new dial joins the extensive collection.
Several years ago GP unveiled the titanium case Laureato tourbillon with sapphire bridges. This year instead of sapphire, the bridges are spinel, hence the bluish tint. Spinel is a crystal and in this case I believe it’s grown artificially then machined into the bridges, just like sapphire.
For some reason, be it symmetry or layout, the three bridges GP tourbillons are beautiful, be they in gold, sapphire or spinel. Only 10 pieces will be made.
Now for the highlight of the collection and something I didn’t expect, the Vintage 1966 Minute Repeater. The case is rose gold, 42 mm, with a white enamel dial featuring applied gold numerals. On the front it is all very simple but elegant.
Turn it over and the movement is revealed. Developed by La Fabrique du Temps, the movement specialist behind Laurent Ferrier, the calibre is a mix of vintage and modern design cues, but they blend together harmoniously. Interestingly the escape wheel is silicon, hence its strong blue colour.
It has an openworked design, revealing much of the gear train. And the balance cock is in the arrow shape reminiscent of the Golden Bridges tourbillons. Finishing is superb with wonderful details, like the gold chatons for the jewels.
And how does it sound? Very good, even though it was a prototype.
It is worth noting 2012 is the last year GP and its sister company Jean Richard will exhibit at SIHH, after more than a decade there. From 2013 both will show at Baselworld, as part of the PPR stable of brands. The Sowind Group, the parent of GP and JR, also got a new CEO in late 2011, Michele Sofisti, former president of Omega. That will be a new beginning for an illustrious brand that could do with some rejuvenation.
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For the full SIHH 2012 report in SIHH forum, http://basel.watchprosite.com/show-forumpost/fi-636/pi-5114288/ti-769238/s-0/
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 line, introduced in 1994, draws inspiration from historical models, specifically a 1945 Art Deco piece. This collection is characterized by its rectangular or tonneau-shaped cases and a design language that evokes mid-20th century aesthetics. The Vintage 1945 series quickly became a cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux's offerings in the 1990s, reinterpreting classic forms with contemporary watchmaking standards. It represents a significant period for the brand in re-establishing its heritage-inspired collections.
Early models in the Vintage 1945 series typically featured stainless steel cases, though gold variants were also produced. The case dimensions varied depending on the specific model, often presenting a balanced profile suitable for dress wear. These watches were frequently equipped with automatic movements, showcasing Girard-Perregaux's in-house capabilities or finely finished outsourced calibers. The crystal was commonly sapphire, ensuring durability and legibility, while water resistance was generally suitable for daily wear rather than aquatic activities.
For collectors, the Vintage 1945 series appeals to those interested in neo-vintage watches that successfully blend historical design with modern execution. The 1994 introduction year marks it as one of the earlier and more influential lines from Girard-Perregaux's resurgence in the 1990s. Its various iterations, including time-only, small seconds, and later complicated versions, offer a range of choices for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive rectangular watch with a clear lineage.
You are making me drool!!!! I agree with your comment about GP doing very well with women's watches. Their ladies pieces are always full of charm. The minute repeater this year just killed me. I can't wait to see it in person! Thanks for the post! Cheers, Daos
The minute repeater is quite beautiful. - SJX
Thank you for your post SJX, This architecture of bridges is really nice: The center wheel is like a bridge between two worlds, the world of power and the world of peace! Best Dje This message has been edited by Dje on 2012-02-03 03:19:13
And especially for the close-ups of the MR movement. Fx
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