Review
Blomman Mr Blue offers a detailed review of the 2015 Girard-Perregaux 1966 in steel, a significant release that brought the acclaimed 1966 line into a more accessible price point. His post explores how GP re-engineered the watch's aesthetics while preserving its core DNA, making it a compelling option for a broader audience. This article delves into the design nuances and strategic implications of this steel variant.
Friends,
We have been discussing this a lot here in the forum and now it is finally here: a Girard-Perregaux 1966 in Steel!
I know we are many here that prefer white metal cases.
Yes, the GP 1966 is available in White Gold, but that will drive the price point up.
For an “entry level watch, time only” that may be problematic since many brands compete in this category.
So for Girard-Perregaux to offer a steel version of the GP 1966 time only, I find as a brilliant move!
To just change the case metal is one thing… That would have been quite easy…
Here Girard-Perregaux has reworked the whole look of the watch without losing the GP 1966 DNA!
If we start by looking at the new steel case:
The base for the steel case is the same as for the 40 mm GP 1966 case in precious metal.
The biggest visual change on the case except for the material is the thinner bezel.
Here is a comparison shot whit the GP 1966 Enamel dial in Pink Gold which also has the 40 mm case.
As you can see the bezel is thinner, giving the dial more space, but let’s wait before we jump into the dial…
The short, curved signature lugs of the GP 1966 are there, making the watch sit perfect on your wrist.
Here a shot in soft ambient light.
Inside is the same automatic movement as in the in precious metal Girard-Perregaux 1966: Base Caliber GP03300.
Difference here is the rotor which I believe also is in steel (a detail I need to confirm that with GP).
The profile of the case is also kept; the slender, elegant look is there!
Now let’s have a closer look on the dial.
Here we notice several differences:
Compared with the GP 1966 in Gold, here GP opted for a minute track and applied indexes.
A good move I think since the thinner bezel gives a bigger dial. Without the minute track the dial might have looked a bit empty…
Next is the indexes, all hours have an applied index now instead of only on the full quarters.
Again, I like the change! Tapered towards the center.
The GP logo and text is rather thin and not as pronounced as you would have expected here, but I don’t mind…
Guess the owner will now which brand he or she is wearing anyway!
But unfortunately the “Automatic” is there and it is bigger than usual…
OK, to be fair – to balance up the GP logo the “Automatic” text needs to be in a lager font size but personally I would have preferred without the text at all.
One change I do like is the bit smaller date window and the fact that GP rounded the corners to soften the edges.
The dial itself have a more grained look than the sunburst dial we are used to see.
The leaf hands are same as the indexes, in steel.
Difference from the White Gold version, the seconds hand is also white.
Personally I would love to see heated blue hands here to make better contrast (and also because I LOVE heated blue hands).
Like on the GP 1966 Enamel dial.
But then again, the hands stand out quite well. Maybe headed blue hands would have been too much here…
Finally we have a steel version of the GP 1966!
In my book this is a winner!
It is simplicity at its best, classic, elegant and with a DNA that is unmistakable Girard-Perregaux.
So, what do you think? Is it a good move for Girard-Perregaux to offer the GP 1966 in steel?
Best
Blomman
The Girard Perregaux 1966 reference, issued in 2014, represents a specific iteration within the brand's 1966 collection, known for its classic design language. This particular model features a friendly complication, distinguishing it from simpler time-only variants within the same series. The 1966 line generally emphasizes traditional watchmaking aesthetics and proportions, appealing to those who appreciate understated horology.
The watch is housed in a case characteristic of the 1966 series. It typically features a sapphire crystal, offering clarity and scratch resistance. The movement powering this reference is an automatic caliber, consistent with Girard Perregaux's in-house manufacturing capabilities, providing a reliable power reserve suitable for daily wear.
For collectors, this reference offers a less commonly seen variant of the 1966 collection. Its appeal lies in its adherence to classical design principles and the inclusion of a practical complication. While specific dial and hand configurations can be subjects of discussion among enthusiasts, the overall presentation aligns with the brand's heritage in precision watchmaking.
I have two issues with this watch: - Like you said, the text "Automatic". Who needs it? - The base movement 3300 is quite small and "boring". I find the small amount of base movements a real handicap of GP. The watch comes to the hot "medium category". There are many rivals like JLC. Perhaps GP is able to compete with competitive pricing? Best, Kari
Now, The date is futile in that watch, as well as the wording. I agree with you on the heated blue hands. It would have been great to see them. I am waiting for dateless iterations. Best, Nicolas
Thank you for the in-depth presentation. You've defined this watch "a winner". If I've understood correctly, it should be "a winner", commercially speaking. If so, I've a question for you: what about the target for this new release? You really find it irresistible? You really think we absolutely needed this kind of outcome? Now, when a watch is released - like every other product - the producer must have a target of clientele in mind. Could you help me to outline the typical buyer for this kind
to being increasingly attracted to the ( some say ) simplicity of the basic style of the thin 3 hand watch with a narrow bezel, For me the date can be useful, but I agree that the automatic designation is not needed. I have other, larger, heavier, more complicated watches, but find that of late I rarely wear them. Maybe it is just a part of growing old! In fact my pretty much constant wrist companion these days is an old Beuche Girod 18ct 38 mm watch. I have come to the conclusion that if, heave
...the word "automatic", I like this entire package. Steel and at a 40mm size makes this go near the top of my shopping list for next year. There is little not to like - an honest, well made watch, and very much within my taste and requirements. Thanks for the review.
We share the same thoughts on this one. Love the various side-by-side photos, they really put the new Steel 1966 into perspective. Best, CC
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