Girard-Perregaux Split Second Foudroyante 9020 Review
Reference Guide

Girard-Perregaux Split Second Foudroyante 9020 Review

By amanico · Sep 4, 2021 · 25 replies
amanico
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
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Amanico's exploration of the Girard Perregaux Split Second (and Foudroyante) Ref. 9020 brings to light a truly overlooked horological marvel. This article delves into why this specific reference, issued in 1999, remains a compelling choice for collectors, highlighting its unique movement and diverse aesthetic variations. Amanico's detailed presentation serves as an invaluable guide for both seasoned enthusiasts and new collectors discovering this 'sleeping marvel' for the first time.

One of those Chronographs I would love to add in my collection, for its split ( and foudroyante ) second, for its movement based on a 7750 totally reworked by Jaquet Baume, and for its aesthetics. 

A drawing of the movement: 



Platinum ( our dear Sandgroper's one ) :




Our dear Madruid's one, in yellow gold with a stunning black dial and no lume on the hands: 



The sporty version in titanium ( Credit picture unknown )  :



And in white gold ( Credit: Christies )

A bit thick ( around 15 mm if my memory serves me well ) but not that big ( 40 mm ) , these 9020 were issued in 1999. 

Yes, truly sleeping marvels. 

Best,

Nicolas

About the Girard Perregaux Ferrari Series Ref. 9020

The Girard Perregaux Ferrari Series reference 9020 represents a notable collaboration from the brand's neo-vintage era. This particular model stands out within the broader Ferrari collection due to its advanced chronograph functionality, distinguishing it from simpler time-only or standard chronograph offerings within the series. It reflects a period when Girard Perregaux was exploring partnerships that allowed for the integration of complex mechanisms into sport-oriented designs. The reference 9020 is recognized for its technical ambition and its place within a specific chapter of the brand's history.

Encased in a material typical of its production period, the watch features a robust construction designed to accommodate its intricate movement. The caliber powering the 9020 is a sophisticated automatic chronograph, incorporating both a foudroyante and a rattrapante complication. This combination of functions is relatively uncommon, highlighting the technical expertise applied in its development. The crystal protecting the dial is sapphire, providing durability and clarity, while the case dimensions contribute to its substantial presence on the wrist.

For collectors, the reference 9020 appeals to those interested in technically complex chronographs from the late 20th century. Its inclusion of both a foudroyante and a rattrapante complication makes it a point of interest for enthusiasts of high-complication movements. The watch fits into the lineage of Girard Perregaux's more ambitious projects, showcasing the brand's capacity for innovation beyond its core collections. Its relative scarcity compared to more common chronographs also contributes to its appeal.

Specifications

Caliber
GP 3070
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
38mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

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The Discussion
PA
PalmSprings
Sep 4, 2021

I love the design of the case. How it starts out 'small'' and goes to the thicker mid case and sides but not too thick. Google says this is a Ferrari LE? The split seconds looks like a bargain at the listed prices. But I do wonder how much a service would cost, 2k?

LM
lm6
Sep 4, 2021

I can't remember ever having seen this model. Thank's for showing!

AM
amanico
Sep 4, 2021

Yes, expect to pay quite a sum for the service...

CO
Cookies
Sep 4, 2021

Great article. I like the titanium version a lot. If only they made this again, with a modern touch of silicon for the mainspring.

PA
PalmSprings
Sep 4, 2021

I was looking at the ones listed on Chrono24 and there are 2 gold ones with split seconds. One has lume, the other doesn't. Do you know if this is correct or possible or if there is some reasoning behind this?

PA
PalmSprings
Sep 4, 2021

Both are yellow gold. Can I post the links on here? I added the pictures just in case. The one with the lume is listed by a German dealer for 12.9k (no original box etc.), the other one (second picture) is listed for 17.9k. When I look at the case and lugs from the cheaper one, they aren't as sharp and crisp as the ones in your pictures. And the side of the case doesn't look polished either but more brushed.

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