Vintage
In this insightful article, 'this_hobby_of_hours' delves into the unique allure of the Girard-Perregaux Abarth Havana dial chronograph ref. 4946. He highlights its rarity, historical provenance, and the challenges and opportunities presented by GP's 'neo-vintage' era, where lost archives create a compelling hunt for unique timepieces. This piece offers a fascinating look into a special commission and the brand's intriguing legacy.
The Girard-Perregaux reference 4946 is a notable example from the brand's production during the 1960s, representing a period of design evolution for the manufacturer. This reference is characterized by its understated aesthetic, reflecting the prevailing design sensibilities of the era for dress watches. It offers a clear indication of Girard-Perregaux's approach to automatic timekeeping in a more compact form factor, distinguishing it from larger or more complicated offerings of the time.
The watch features a stainless steel case measuring 34mm in diameter, a size typical for men's watches of its decade. It is fitted with an acrylic crystal, common for watches of this period, providing durability and ease of maintenance. The timepiece is powered by the automatic GP Caliber 39, which provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The dial is presented in a silver finish, complemented by a fixed bezel and a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in vintage Girard-Perregaux pieces that embody the brand's mid-century design language and mechanical craftsmanship. Its straightforward date complication and classic proportions make it a versatile piece for those seeking a historically accurate representation of the brand's output. The 4946 offers a glimpse into the foundational elements that would influence later Girard-Perregaux designs.
of this beautiful timepiece and for sharing your passion for GP. Even if I don’t really relate to the automotive background of this watch because I’m personally not into cars (just me of course), I find it very attractive. Best, Emmanuel
Really surprised by you saying that the GP archives have been lost. All of them or just a specific period?
Not all of the archives have been lost entirely but a massive amount. Here are a few examples: 1. Try to google for the laureato 8010 archives for the brand. Or for old advertisements. Nada. 2. Same for the laureato olimpico. I found two old press releases in europa news. 3. Who designed the first laureato in 1975? GP management today themselves are not entirely sure. Why are there so few archives available? - Olaf Graef and family owned GP from circa 1904 to 1979. And then it change ownership t
Exactly due to your given reasons - mostly change in ownership. AND in earlier days, as you say, people where more forward oriented. The past is old - the future is where we are heading to! Also nicely to see in architecture around the 1900… where much all over Europe got lost. By far not only due to the wars…
And did more new or innovative designs instead 😂 Somewhat tongue in cheek but I guess you know what I mean. Longines indeed seems to have handled this aspect really well 👍🏻
As I have said before I have a lot of respect for Girard Perregaux especially these neo vintage pieces that just seem to have a charm of their own. You seem to have an endless supply of them and so far I have liked all that you have posted. Wear and enjoy them all in good health. Marc
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