Girard Perregaux Ref. 4948 Classic Chronograph

Fernando's post offers a refreshing perspective on spontaneous watch acquisitions, highlighting how an unexpected find can become a cherished piece. His detailed impressions of a Girard Perregaux classic chronograph, initially a commissioned watch for a car manufacturer, underscore the joy of discovering value and quality beyond typical production models. This article explores the aesthetic appeal and performance of a watch that proves an expensive price tag isn't always a prerequisite for horological satisfaction.

There are two types of watches in my possession : ones that I have planned, saved and lusted for and those that I was attracted to at first sight and became a spontaneous acquisition.

This one belongs to the latter category and I know quite well the dangers of these impulsive buys as sometimes the excitement fizzles and you then ask yourself ….why?

However, there are times when I feel a quick decision has paid off; when I have grown to appreciate and cherish the ownership of such pieces. Usually, they are relatively inexpensive, so it's more or less a spur of the moment thing, which does not involve making an appointment with my bank manager. An expensive watch doesn't necessarily mean it's a good watch and vice versa. However, most times you get what you pay for, even if it is just the perception.

Here's one that popped up on my radar screen ( or more appropriately on the CM screen ) recently - a GP classic chrono. There's something about the dial that immediately drew my attention: no date, no superfluous writing, no truncated indices or dials, blued feuille hands and touches of red on certain numerals. As tri-compax chronograph dial goes, this looks very clean and beautiful to me. The case is the typical GP classic style with the brushed curved sides incorporating the lugs and a slightly domed crystal. The mushroom pushers and the sizeable crown adds to the overall look.

There wasn't much information about the watch to begin with, as it's not a regular production model but further investigation revealed it to be a commissioned watch by a car manufacturer for its long serving employees. Some have obviously come on to the market, for whatever reasons.

I have no problem with that, as long as it's authentic and if I ever get mistaken for one of their employees, so be it.

I wasn't able to find any information about the movement either but I suspect it to be ETA. I have to say the chronograph function and time keeping performs way above my expectations. No stutter, no jumping hands, returns precisely to start and winds very smoothly.

I do appreciate haute horlogerie but sometimes it's watches like this that make my day!

I want to emphasise that this is just my own personal view of timepieces in general and sharing other viewpoints and opinions here are most welcome.

Enough said, on to the pics.

Thanks for looking and a great week-end to all!

Best

Fernando