Vintage
Blomman Mr Blue celebrates the successful hunt for a Girard-Perregaux 9034 BB, affectionately known as the "Dot dial," in pristine, near-NOS condition. This post delves into the historical context of the reference, comparing his new acquisition from the "BB" batch (November 1967) with a friend's "C" batch (September 1967) piece, highlighting the unique hand-painted dials and original features.
Friends,
We have been discussing the Girard-Perregaux reference 9034 the so called “Dot dial” here several times.
As I told you, it has been on my hunt list for quite some time now.
They pop up here and there but not very often and most of the time in poor condition…
Imagine my joy when I finally found one in pristine condition, close to new old stock!
For you who remember my review of the Dot dial know that the reference 9034 was made for a long time (1967 – 1976).
The first batches of the 9034 were “B” and “C”. Both containing 1000 pieces each made in September 1967.
Here is a shot of my friends Dot dial from the “C” batch which I based my review on.
You can read the review here:
Third batch “D”, also 1000 pieces was made in October 1967.
My watch belongs to the forth batch of the 9034, the “BB” batch of 1000 watches which was made in November 1967.
As you can see the dials are very similar but not identical.
Due to the hand painted dials each dial is unique in its own way!
Short angular lugs, unsigned crown and the cherry on the cake – still on its original Corfam strap!
Polished sides and sharp edges of the lugs.
Not only the dial is hand painted, so are the hands.
Here I noticed some different styles, “White tips” like on mine and some with whole white hands.
Screw in case back. Since the Sea Hawk shared this reference, the case is “Waterproof”.
If we open the watch it shows a nice clean movement.
The caliber GP 12.3 based on the AS caliber 1640.
The movement looks like it never has been touched. But still after 49 years, it keeps good time!
I can’t check exact due to the lack of second hand, but I would have the movement checked by a watchmaker my guess would be that it keeps within acceptable range.
On the wrist the Dot dial is always fun!
Many people get a good surprise and a smile on their face when they see this one.
Including me!
To finish this post I like to show you a side-by-side shot of the Dot dial and the Damier.
Two watches from the same brand, both with manual wind movement, time only and no second hand.
They have a lot in common, but could not be looking more unlike each other!
One round, one square, one dotted, one checkered….!
Best
Blomman
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage reference 9034 is a notable model within the brand's mid-century offerings, recognized for its diverse dial configurations. Produced over nearly a decade, this reference showcases Girard-Perregaux's design versatility during a period of significant stylistic evolution in watchmaking. It represents a segment of the brand's production that catered to varied aesthetic preferences while maintaining a consistent underlying mechanical platform.
This reference features a 34.5 mm steel case, a common dimension for watches of its era, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. The watch is powered by the Caliber GP12.3, an automatic movement based on the AS 1640 Ă©bauche, indicating a robust and widely utilized architecture. The use of a steel case and a reliable automatic movement positioned the 9034 as a durable and practical timepiece for daily wear.
For collectors, the 9034 is particularly interesting due to its wide array of dial variations, including the "moon dot" (also known as "Playboy"), gold-plated, "psychedelic," and "Roulette" or "Flag" designs. This variety makes individual examples distinct and offers collectors opportunities to pursue specific aesthetic preferences within a single reference number. Its production span from 1967 to 1976 further highlights its enduring appeal and adaptability during that period.
I know the feeling this watch gives the owner. It's pure joy when looking at the hand-painted, so unique dial. And what a luck to have the original strap. Greetings from mine, Batch FG and all white hands. CC
We will have to compare next time we meet! Best, my friend Blomman
Huge congratulations. Best, Nicolas
As you know, I have been hunting one for a long time! Best Blomman
Well done mate! Pristine condition indeed! Chris (now in Oz)
Have you moved to the Downunder?! Or just holiday? Best Blomman
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