Vintage
In this insightful post, blomman Mr Blue delves into the subtle yet significant design variations of the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 case and dial. His detailed observations highlight how these elements, particularly the case's curvature and dial's flatness, evolve across different references, offering a nuanced perspective for collectors and enthusiasts. This exploration underscores the meticulous craftsmanship and design considerations that define the Vintage 1945 series.
Friends,
As you know, this year is the 70 th anniversary of the Original 1945.
This has made me go back and look at many of the photos and versions we have seen here. While doing that I noticed a couple of details that differs between the versions…
That the case of the Vintage 1945 is curved, I think no one has missed…
If we start to look at the Vintage 1945 chronograph, reference 25840. The case has the typical curved shape, but if we look a little bit closer...
First thing I noticed is the squarer rounding’s of the edges on the case. Also the rounded part at the base of the lugs is more square. In addition the lugs are more square than round.
Seen from the crown side this makes sense, the case shape catches the pushers shape very well.
Secondly, if we look at the dial. It is flat. No not flat as in “flat dead”, but flat as in “not curved”.
I guess this has to do with the chronograph movement would have made it hard to curve the dial. This I didn’t noticed when I wrote the review on this piece. The dial itself has a very nice depth of different layers of elements! So nice that I didn’t pick up on this detail…
If we now go back and look at the original 1945.
We see that the edges of the case is almost round, so are the part at the base of the lugs. Here there are no pushers to consider and the case looks perfectly balanced!
If you look at the dial, you see the curve, and when you look at the sub-second dial you realize that it is curved quite a lot!
If we now go back to present time and compare the original 1945 with the Blue Vintage 1945…
The edges of the case look very much the same as on the original 1945! More round than square. Notice the semi lowered crown, same as on the original.
And the dial, yes it is curved! Just look at the sub-second dial and you realize how much!
Scroll up again and compare with the Chronograph and you will see the small subtle differences… And you will probably see how big differences they make!
Must say that I love the effort GP puts into all the small details! It is easy to think that one and the same line has the same basics when it comes to the case… But, no!
Best
Blomman
This message has been edited by blomman on 2015-02-19 00:03:14The Girard Perregaux Vintage 1945 reference 25840 is a notable example from the brand's late 1990s output, embodying a design philosophy that drew inspiration from historical Girard Perregaux pieces. This particular reference, appearing around 1999-2000, is part of a series of "Vintage" models that reinterpreted classic aesthetics for a contemporary audience, distinguishing itself within the broader Vintage 1945 collection through its specific configuration and production period. It represents a continuation of Girard Perregaux's commitment to its heritage while offering modern watchmaking.
This reference typically features a rectangular case, characteristic of the Vintage 1945 line, crafted from a precious metal. The case houses an automatic movement, a common choice for Girard Perregaux's production watches of this era, providing reliable timekeeping. The crystal protecting the dial is generally sapphire, ensuring durability and clarity. The design emphasizes legibility and a refined presence, consistent with the brand's approach to its dressier complications.
For collectors, the reference 25840 appeals to those interested in Girard Perregaux's output from the turn of the millennium, particularly its vintage-inspired offerings. It fits within a period where the brand was exploring its archives to create new models that resonated with its history. The watch's design and mechanical execution make it a representative piece of Girard Perregaux's identity during this era, offering a blend of traditional watchmaking and late 20th-century design sensibilities.
An important anniversary for an important Watch. Important and uncommon. So many great détails. Even the glass is curved! It will be tough to do better than the Mechanics Of Art, which is, to me, the perfect one for a XXL case. An exciting challenge. Best, Nicolas
as we expect from a Top Level manufacture. In general, since it's re-introduction in 1995, the case has become "rounder" and in particular "bigger" to move with fashion. Even on the latest Vintage 45 Chronograph the pusher and the case edges are rounder than they were in the mid 00ties. If I'm right, the dial of the older Chronograph 2599 is actually curved and that has been quite a technical achievement. I also remember my watchmaker saying when he serviced my 2593 with smal seconds that there
Two pics to show its beauty. Hard to beat! Best, Nicolas
and, it is not only curved, it is curved both veritically and horizontally.
That 2599 is a pure jewel! Best, Nicolas
but this time in Steel case. I'm thinking of the same Ltd Edition model from 2001 you have but I like the white dial more.
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