Girard-Perregaux Abarth Vintage
Vintage

Girard-Perregaux Abarth Vintage

By this_hobby_of_hours · Aug 13, 2024 · 57 replies
this_hobby_of_hours
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
57 replies10950 views11 photos
f ๐• in ๐Ÿ’ฌ โœ‰ ๐Ÿ”—

this_hobby_of_hours introduces a truly exceptional and rare timepiece, the Girard-Perregaux Abarth Ref. 4946. This article delves into the unique history and bespoke features of this limited edition, highlighting why it stands out even among other coveted neo-vintage GP chronographs. His detailed account and stunning photography offer an invaluable look into a watch that embodies a unique intersection of horology and automotive passion.

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Friends,

It finally arrived today. Iโ€™m excited to have the GP Abarth in my hands.

As usual, I had to beg the original owner (a reclusive and profilic collector) to let me have it. ๐Ÿ˜…

Itโ€™s on its orginal bracelet and Iโ€™ll be trying it on its leather strap soon.

A brief summary of the Girard-Perregaux Abarth:

Ref 4946
38 mm
50 pieces made
Double signed dial

Made specially as a limited edition for Abarth Gallery, Japan ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต

The โ€œregularโ€ GP ref 4946 is a beauty in itself. (See attached pic) Not seen often in the wild and one that I have admired often.

But the folks in Japan requested both dial and movement to be customised even further.

From a 3-register chronograph, it was customized to be a bi-compax with date removed. Running seconds on the right sub-dial and a 30 minute chronograph counter on the left. Perfectly balanced, no partially eaten numbers.

We also seee the white metal applied Breguet numerals on the sand colored dial. Perhaps โ€œmilk chocolateโ€ might be a good description for the dial color.

We see โ€œAbarthโ€ on the display caseback with the individual LE number engraved.

Off catalog, this was provided as a special order for specific clients in Japan in 2003. Both fans of GP as well as fans of Italian performance automotives.

Gino Macaluso, born in Turino ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น, was himself once a champion rally car driver and the Fiat Abarth 124 took him to many titles. Macaluso would one day become the owner of GP (circa 1990-2010)

So to show his appreciation and love for both the Abarth and his friends in Japan, Gino bent the rules when approached to make a special timepiece.

One of the many reasons I especially love the neo-vintage era. Some special pieces with significance and back-stories behind the timepiece.

As always, questions and comments are welcomed. Letโ€™s continue to appreciate the heritage and the hidden gems of this brand we so love.




















Gino Macaluso


The ref 4946





The iconic Abarth scorpion logo๐Ÿฆ‚


A sketch of Gino in his Abarth. Internet

#NWA ๐Ÿค

About the Girard Perregaux Gyromatic Ref. 4946

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.

Specifications

Caliber
GP Cal. 39
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
34mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
KM
KMII
Aug 13, 2024

And way before the modern relaunch of Abarth as a sub-brand of Fiat ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป Enjoy your new addition ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป

GU
GuyT
Aug 13, 2024

that is a good looking watch. Not usually a fan of chronos but the details are all good here. Great catch.

IM
imrootbeer7
Aug 13, 2024

I had the car but not the watch! Is it the same reference as the Fiat 30 year? It is so beautiful. Congratulations

HO
hoseachandra
Aug 13, 2024

Maybe you indeed like copper dial...but not in the form of laureato . Great catch.

M4
M4
Aug 13, 2024

This Abarth I didn't know before but it is superb! Much nicer without the date and such a great dial color. The case size and sensual lugs are outstanding. Your begging was worth it! LOL! M4

VI
vicunaman1
Aug 13, 2024

The dial color works beautifully with the white metal.. Enjoy it!!!!

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