Vintage
blomman Mr Blue takes readers on a historical journey, exploring the origins and evolution of the Girard-Perregaux Gyromatic movement. This post clarifies the patent timeline and technical workings of the Gyromatic, offering valuable insights into a significant innovation in automatic watchmaking. It serves as a foundational resource for understanding this pivotal GP caliber.
Friends,
Last week I told you that the Gyromatic was patented in 1957.
But the earliest document showing Gyromatic I have is this one from 1951:
So I suspect that GP patented the Gyromatic same time as they introduced the new 39 Jewels Gyromatic.
You remember how the Gyromatic works…
Since this is an international forum I like to offer this document both in English and in French!
A truly outstanding watch of amazing accuracy!
Look how happy he is!
Functions of the Gyrotrons
Gyromatic 39 Jewels
Stronger, Surer, More accurate
Ref 7317: 39 Jewels, with calendar.
Fun note: everything is translated except the prices which are in Franc in both documents. The question is, is it French Franc or is it Swiss Franc…?
K 509 VI. 57
Hope you enjoy this stroll down memory lane…
As you know, I love this kind of old documents!
Best
Blomman
This message has been edited by blomman on 2015-02-19 01:14:57The Girard-Perregaux Gyromatic reference 7317 is notable as the original Gyromatic 39 Jewels, a model prominently featured in period advertisements for its innovative jewel roller bearings. Introduced in 1957, this reference was a significant commercial success for the brand, with a production run that spanned several years and inspired later heritage models. It represents a key period in Girard-Perregaux's development of self-winding movements.
The 7317 was produced in a substantial quantity of 34,055 pieces between 1957 and 1962, though it remained in catalogs until 1968. Production figures include 24,000 pieces in steel, 1,475 in yellow gold, 850 in rose gold, 5,530 in yellow gold plated, 1,400 with yellow gold cap, and 800 with rose gold cap. The watch features a self-winding movement with 39 jewels.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in historically significant self-winding watches and those seeking a piece from a high-production, yet less commonly seen, vintage series. Its various case material options provide collectors with choices, reflecting the diverse market strategies of the era. The 7317 stands as a testament to Girard-Perregaux's manufacturing capabilities and design approach in the mid-20th century.
Funny that you show the Gyromatic with Date. I hunted this one for a very long time and still hunt it. I have these docs but in italian. Marketing sometimes work with Education. ;) Best, nicolas
Please post some scans! You hunting a watch WITH date?! ;) Yes, it would be a great addition. Honestly, I am not sure if I have this one in the picture or not... Need to go through my drawers... If not I need to find one! ;) Best, my friend Blomman
We are turning into Wikipedia - available in all languages! ;) Best, my friend Blomman
My Early Giromatic sold in 1959, brought on ebay this year for the original owner. It still keeps excellent time and is worn, never needs winding. It came with all the papers and box. Crystal has a Rolex style date window. Probably a later addition.
Congrats! :) Best Blomman
I have a nice progression of the Gyromatic series. Cal 22, 2 x 32A, 42.4 and a 480. Not sure if that was the last of the Giromatic series.
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