Review
AndrewD offers a compelling initial review of the Girard-Perregaux 1966 Chronograph (Ref. 49539), highlighting its elegant design and wearability. His insights into the watch's aesthetic appeal and the subtle challenges of its movement provide valuable context for collectors considering this classic bicompax chronograph. AndrewD's detailed observations help readers appreciate the nuances of GP's design philosophy.
Hi All,
GP have kindly allowed me to spend a month with the 1966 Chronograph (Ref: 49539) and while a detailed review will follow, I wanted to share my initial impressions with you.
Actually I think the following wrist shots say most of what I want to convey: the 1966 Chrono is a delight to wear. Elegant proportions (40x10.7mm), classic symmetrical bicompax dial, stylish applied rose gold numerals/indices and the startling polished and heat-blued steel hands, set off against a satin dial. The simple black alligator strap perfectly accentuates the rose gold case.
Aesthetically I love the dial, the case proportions, the short lugs and the pushers. The designers have done a great job disguising the fact that inside beats a relatively small (10.5 ligne) automatic movement.
And that is really the only negative point I can make at this stage. The Cal. GP030Co is a relatively thin modular column wheel chronograph, but the entire chronograph βworksβ are hidden under the dial. What you see through the sapphire exhibition back is a relatively sombre solid gold rotor and the escapement.
But you forget all that when the watch is strapped on the wrist.
More to come ...
Andrew
The Girard Perregaux 1966 Chronograph is a notable offering within the brand's classically styled 1966 collection, distinguished by its integrated chronograph function. This reference emphasizes traditional watchmaking aesthetics combined with a practical complication, positioning it as a more technically involved piece compared to time-only or simple date models within the same line. It represents Girard Perregaux's commitment to horological complications in a refined, understated package. The design adheres to the collection's established visual language, ensuring continuity while introducing enhanced functionality.
This particular iteration features a 40 mm case crafted from white gold, providing a substantial yet luxurious feel on the wrist. The watch is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, the GP03300-0064 caliber, which is visible through a sapphire case back. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance. The case dimensions contribute to a balanced presence, aligning with contemporary preferences for moderately sized chronographs.
For collectors, the 1966 Chronograph appeals to those seeking a sophisticated chronograph from a respected manufacture, without overt sporting pretensions. Its white gold case and classic design make it suitable for formal wear, while the chronograph complication adds a layer of horological interest. The choice of a display case back allows appreciation of the movement's finishing. This reference stands as a solid example of Girard Perregaux's capabilities in producing complicated watches with a focus on traditional design principles.
Andrew, Very nice watch, even considering that I'm not a "gold person". I would love to see this one in SS with a black dial but this one is very tempting. Thank you for the post, Nilo
Thanks Nilo. The Ref 49539 also comes in WG with WG accents on the dial. Personally I like the richness that the RG brings and it is not overpowering on the wrist. GP have more sporty chronographs in the collection with darker dial options and in steel. Here are some of FX's shots of the WG watch for comparison ... And the press release images of the two watches from their 2010 launch at SIHH ...
This while dialed version had hour and minute hands in blue ... It could be The Object Of Desire. Cheers, Nilo
... although I agree that blued hands are beautiful. I find the rose gold hands to be warmer and more appealing than the starker white hands of the WG version. Andrew
GP's 1966 Chronograph is one of most beautiful chronograph designs on the market. In terms of looks I hold it right up there with Vacheron Constantin's Patirmony Traditionnelle Chronograph and Patek Philippe's 5070. Intellectually I prefer these manual winding cousins to GP's self-winding modular movement, but I don't think that would stop me from choosing the one that I liked the looks of the most (and of course the GP is downright inexpensive relative to its competitors). Bill Bill
Andrew, lovely, lovely piece and one of my favourites. As you know I have the classic 1966 in pink gold, but I also love this dressy chronograph. If I had a choice, I would probably go for the white gold with blue dial which looks stunning IMHO. I can see you enjoyed that piece and I look forward to your detailed review.
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