New Release
AnthonyTsai's 2012 post introduces the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 XXL Chronograph, a timepiece that marries Haute Horlogerie with Art Deco aesthetics. This article explores the watch's design philosophy, its in-house manufacture caliber, and its tribute to early twentieth-century elegance.
When Haute Horlogerie meets the decorative arts, time takes on another dimension. The sober lines of the new Vintage 1945 XXL Chronograph evoke the aesthetic heritage of the early twentieth century that Girard-Perregaux has so consistently espoused. At its heart, the GP03300 self-winding manufacture caliber happily measures short intervals of time with the precision you expect from the great.
Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 XXL Chronograph
Measuring short periods of time is an art combining innovation and refinement
In a vibrant tribute to Art Deco, the straight lines melt into curves and back again in perfect balance. Fashioned in pink gold or steel, the rectangular case places the Art Deco's notion of geometry at the heart of its design. Its generous size is compensated by an ergonomically convex silhouette which makes it comfortable to wear. Alternately polished and satin-brushed, the subtle finish showcases the watch's functions.
The two chronograph counters face each other and assert the piece's symmetry. The blued steel hands match the central seconds hand, while the hours and minutes are measured by dauphine style hands. The applied Arabic numerals recall the refinement of classic watches, and the "railroad" minute track recalls the original Vintage 1945. The curved dial is an appropriate space for the measurement of time and a crowning touch for the style of the watch.
The sapphire case-back opens on to the cunning mechanism entirely designed, manufactured and assembled in-house by the Manufacture at La Chaux-de-Fonds. The caliber GP03300 reveals its Haute Horlogerie pedigree, hand finished as tradition demands, in between the sweeps of its gold oscillating weight. Evidently, elegance does not show its age. While the new Vintage 1945 XXL Chronograph is a resolutely modern watch, every aesthetic and technical detail points to the expertise of a brand that draws on a constantly renewed heritage going back over two centuries.
Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 XXL Chronograph
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Pink gold case
Dimensions: 36.95 x 36.00 mm
Height: 12.77 mm
Case-back: sapphire crystal secured by 4 screws
Water resistance: 30 meters (100 feet)
Automatic mechanical
Movement Girard-Perregaux GP03300-0064
Caliber: 11½'''
Frequency: 28,800 Vib/h (4 Hz)
Power reserve: min. 46 hours
Jewels: 47
Functions: hour, minute, small second, chronograph
Black alligator strap
Pink gold folding buckle
Reference: 25883-521-21-BB6C
Retail prices are:
- Steel case/leather strap: $13,300
- Steel case/ steel bracelet: $14,800
- Pink gold case/leather strap: $32,500
Press Release
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.
Such a beautiful piece, the art deco look is one of my favorites. I like the Vintage 1945 Off-Center as well.
I like it. Do we have pics of the steel versions? A
Enjoy, courtesy of our friends at GP! Cheers, Daos
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