Vintage
Blomman Mr Blue initiates a captivating series on vintage Girard-Perregaux, starting with the GP 9076C. He shares his unique, patient approach to collecting, emphasizing the joy of assembling a complete historical picture over time. This post sets the stage for a deeper exploration into vintage GP, highlighting the collector's journey as much as the watches themselves.
So, I promissed you that I would start talking about vintage GP here...
But, before I go in to detail about this perticular watch I would like to introduce you to my way of collecting...
For those of you that has not read my posts about vintage watches over at the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum should know that I LOVE vintage watches and basically everything about them!
Everything from the actuall watch, catalogue, ads and documentations. Boxes, buckles, original staps....
I collect “broad“... bits and pieces here and there... I don’t get beaten down if I don’t find a specific watch or part straight away. To me, stamina is a key word when it comes to vinatge watch collecting.
Some
watches I found ten years ago but I didn’t find the missing part until yesterday,
and in some cases I still haven’t found it yet. But it doesn’t matter because I
know that one day I will be able to find the missing piece of the puzzle and will
be able to put them together to something beautiful! 
Within this “chaos“ of multiple collecting themes going on at the same time I try to stay organised, so I always follow the same routine.
I set the table.
Come into the right mood...
I remove the bracelet and clean the watch.
I go through my drawers to see if I can find some goodies.
OK, let’s examin the bracelet – signed buckle. As you can see, the bracelet is very well made, smooth and a bit flexibal.
Also signed on the inside.
OK, so which watch are we talking about here?
Well, I already told you in the title: Reference 9076 C also called Deep Diver.
This is a watch that facinates and intruges me... At first glance it looks very much the same as any other 70’s divers watch.
Big rotating bezel, bulky c-shaped case, baton hands, date...
But if you look closer you will notice this watch is much more solid built.
The multi
layer case and three dimentional dial may remind you of something you have seen
more recently...?
Single directional bezel, still distict and firm in the “ticks“ after almost 40 years, signed screwdown crown. Hard to see in this pic, but the reference is stamped between the lugs.
Screwdown case back. Case size 39 x 45 mm, lugs 20 mm. Mineral glass crystal.
The Deep Diver came in several different models, here is an ad of an earlier reference.
Both for men and ladies.
The Ref 9076 came originally both on bracelet, CHF 365.
And Tropical rubber strap, CHF 350.
In 1976, 1000 of the Ref 9076B and 500 of the Ref 9076C was made. I still haven’t figured out the differance between B and C...
As I stated in the beginning of this post – this is a watch that facinates and intruges me...
Depending on the light the dial and bezel shifts from bluish green...
To greenish-black...
Inside is the Cal 42-2, Gyromatic, 21.600 vph, 25 jewels (base AS 1843) – sorry, but I have no photo at this point.
So, I am
not in the mood for bracelet or Tropical... Time to “Blommonize” this watch!
Hm, black-greyish or brown-yellowish…? Let’s go with the black.
You may wonder what’s in the boxes…?
Too narrow…
Yup, this will do – not from the correct time period, but it will do for now.
Oh, yes!
Now we’re
talking!
We are ready for some mood shots…
Dark mood…
Look at
this green…! Argh..! The Hulk!
From steel…
To Blommonized…
I am
totally in love!
I call this post ”The Prologue” because for me this is the beginning of what will become a new chapter in my life as a watch collector.
Hope you enjoyed this "new beginning"...
Best
Blomman
The Girard-Perregaux Deep Divers, specifically the 9076 reference, represents a significant entry in the brand's history of robust sports watches. These models were part of a broader trend in the mid-20th century where watch manufacturers developed timepieces capable of withstanding demanding aquatic environments, catering to the growing interest in diving and outdoor activities. The 9076 series is recognized for its distinctive case designs and functional aesthetics, characteristic of its era.
While specific movement details for the 9076 are not always widely publicized, these watches typically housed reliable automatic movements, often based on ebauches from reputable manufacturers, finished and regulated by Girard-Perregaux. The cases were designed for water resistance, featuring screw-down casebacks and often rotating bezels, essential for dive timing. The dials were typically legible, with luminous markers and hands for visibility in low-light conditions.
For collectors, the Girard-Perregaux 9076 Deep Divers are appreciated for their historical context within the brand's sports watch lineage and their authentic vintage appeal. Their robust construction and distinctive design language make them sought-after examples of mid-century tool watches. The availability of original components and documentation further enhances their desirability among enthusiasts.
Yours is superb. The B, too, with its funkier look and its internal bezel. The an earlier one, like our mexican friend's one, Alex Sunrise, is my priority. Without date! :) Well, I think I have some place for two! :) Bravo, my friend. I have the feeling we'll have a feast! Best, Nicolas.
What a fabulous post ! And a great catch in both the gorgeous watch and the vintage buckles. I do wonder that the watch would have looked better on the lighter strap. Now it is time for me to seek out a Deep Diver. Dean
An early version, like Alex's! :) As for the 9076 B - no it is not the one shown to the left in the ad. That is Ref 9108, which again is completly different with the bezel on the inside... Which I of course also would have room for! ;) Thank you, Nicolas - yes, this is only the beginning...! Best, my friend Blomman
What a fabulous report, thank you very much. While I must admit that 70ties or 80ties vintage watches are not my cup of tea, I absulotely adore the passion and detail, the tray, the dealer sign, the old ads, the various straps and buckles in tin cases...Lovely! That's what a collector's passion is all about. CC
a) that we didn't spoke more about this great watch b) you have all this goodies around c) you are not banned from PPro already :) You just cause to much pain :) :) I'm absolutely in love with this one! The green of a watch is just marvelous for me Piece that, although some will consider it heresy, is nothing shy of Subs or FFs or Omegas from that era Excellent post my friend excellent Yours D
Thank you, Dean! :) I will try the other strap when I come home tonight... Best Blomman
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