Collection
Crown comfort shares his journey of reacquiring the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Chronograph Ref. 2599, a piece he previously owned and regretted selling. This post details his preference for the steel case and cream dial limited edition from 2001, highlighting the watch's unique features and his quest for the perfect strap.
Friends,
This is report is overdue for a few weeks, but now here it is.
One of my recent additions to my collection is the Vintage 45 Chronograph, Ref 2599. As it happens, the Vintage 45 Chrono, Ref 2599 was my second GP in my collection many years back. Here is a photo of that watch from my archives.
I decided to sell it some years ago. I got a bit tired of the gold applied markers on the white dial with the white gold case and I had planned to replace it with a new 2599 shortly after. However, it took me several years before welcoming back a 2599. Not that there have not been opportunities, but as often other priorities came first and then it got pushed out.
In 2001, GP released a limited edition of the Vintage 45 Chrono with steel case and a unique dial design that was available in black and cream. I think we all know Nico’s 2599 with the black dial which is from the same series of 2001 limited pieces.
The most prominent features of that version are the skeletonized hands and the beautifully drawn numerals. It was very much clear to me that this is the version I need to hunt, especially as I wanted a steel case. The only question was black or cream. After handling both versions, the cream dial won my heart and I have been hunting it for a while.
The watch I found seemed a bit in bad condition and it missed the original strap. However, the watch was actually in good condition, minor traces of wear as you would expect, runs excellent and of course, I had a number of matching original straps already in stock.
I had a dark brown and a tan brown croco strap for the Vintage 45 in 21mm. The strap construction is very special but not always perfectly fitting. My strap of choice was the tan small-scales croco strap like on the photos below, but on my smallish wrist, it always bent too much outwards and looked not flush at the lugs.
I did remember that my white gold 2599 had a different strap design which was totally flush with the case. I believe it had the strap from the last Richeville line which is also 21mm and with the special metal construction. So, I tried the brown tan croc strap from my Richeville and voilà that was fitting perfectly. While I would have slightly preferred the richer colour of the other strap, I’m satisfied with the Richeville strap as it integrates perfectly into the case shape without any gaps and without bending outwards when wearing. I also opted for a pin buckle instead of the deployment buckle, which was the standard for this model.
The dial close-up:
The curved case and back:
What can I say? Very very happy having this one back in the collection and even happier with the cream dial, steel case. For me, this is the best-sized Vintage 45. It is a bit less wide than the King Size giving it a more longer, rectangular look, which has just perfect proportions. A good thickness and the prominent chronograph pushers really add to the look and presence on the wrist. The curved case combined with the rectangular shape is unrivalled in my opinion.
Best,
CC
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 reference 2599 is a notable interpretation within the Vintage 1945 collection, distinguished by its rectangular, curved case design that evokes the aesthetic of mid-20th century watchmaking. This particular reference maintains the collection's commitment to classic proportions and understated design, appealing to those who appreciate historical design cues without overt vintage reproduction. It represents a period in Girard-Perregaux's modern history where historical archives were reinterpreted for contemporary tastes, focusing on form and wearability.
This reference features a case, typically crafted from stainless steel, measuring approximately 28mm in width and 43mm in length, providing a distinctive presence on the wrist. It is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, the Girard-Perregaux Caliber 3000, which offers a power reserve of around 46 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and clarity for the dial. Its construction provides a water resistance suitable for daily wear.
The Vintage 1945 reference 2599 appeals to collectors seeking a watch with a strong identity that is distinct from more common round cases. Its design, characterized by a retro look and a sensual shape, positions it as a piece for true watch enthusiasts who value design subtlety and historical inspiration. The model's under-the-radar profile contributes to its appeal among those who prefer less ubiquitous timepieces, offering a blend of historical reference and contemporary wearability within the Girard-Perregaux catalog.
Add the fact that its modular construction is 100 % in house, and you have one of the most interesting chronograph of the market. The case size, too, as you said, is very good, at least for our wrists. A marvel. Like you, I sold mine after several years of ownership, and quite quickly regretted my decision. Like you, I hunted a steel version. Mine was white gold, black dial. This one is very much my taste. Best, Nicolas
Bravo CC thank you for this great post Best D
and a shared passion! Cheers. CC
I'm sure this would make a very fine (first?) GP for you.
.. No wonder you\'ve preferred it over the WG/YG numbers.. Glad, you found that Ref. again & Nico does love his one als well, as it looks. Cheers & Best, hs
And looks great on your wrist. Big congrats! M4
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