Vintage
Blomman Mr Blue introduces a pristine Girard-Perregaux Olimpico ref 9245, humorously dubbed 'The 40-Year-Old Virgin,' highlighting the rare find of a vintage watch in untouched condition. This post delves into the two main philosophies of vintage collecting—seeking perfect patina versus pristine originality—and offers a personal reflection on the joy of acquiring such a well-preserved piece.
Friends,
I like to present to you the 40-Year-Old Virgin, the Girard-Perregaux Olimpico Chronograph reference 9245!
For those of you who read my review of the Girard-Perregaux Olimpico Chronograph reference 9245 might remember that the watch was made in 1976.
Produced in total of 1.000 pieces, all in stainless steel.
As a vintage watch collector there are basically two schools to follow.
Type A: hunts the perfect patina. Chocolate dials, creamy tritium, aged with beauty…
Type B: hunts the pristine, perfect, untouched, the virgin!
Then you have the modern watch collector which in many senses are the same as the vintage watch collector type B, but without the same timeframe.
Instead of getting a kick out of the fact of something being as new after so long time, you get the kick out of having something very new!
When you start to combine the different types, like me, my profile fits all of the above, then you know you have a severe case of watch collecting!
As a vintage watch collector, to find something perfect type A is hard.
To find something perfect type B…
Well that happens only at every second blue moon!
But when it happens, it is very sweet…
Dial and hands do show some ageing, but not to an extent that would make you think this watch must have been in circulation…
The case has never been polished…
The structure of the surfaces is intact and so are all the angles and edges of the case…
Crown and pushers has not been tampered with…
The case back is not full of scratches from opening and closing the case…
Even the sticker is still on the back!
Inside beats the GP calibre 24-0 (base Valjoux 236).
Keeping good time, chronograph works perfect.
And as you can see, the movement is clean and scratch free…
Never serviced!
Can you feel it? The rush?
Looking into a watch that probably only been opened a very few times during the last 40 years!
And talking about rush, strapping such a watch on to your wrist!
Well, enough about me… What type might you be?
Best
Blomman (a severe case of type A, B and C + all that’s in between)
If you like to read the review of this model, you will find it here:
This message has been edited by blomman on 2016-06-15 23:56:47The Girard-Perregaux Vintage reference 9245 is a notable example from the brand's Vintage collection, which typically encompasses designs inspired by historical models while incorporating contemporary watchmaking. This specific reference represents a period where Girard-Perregaux explored various aesthetic interpretations within its established lines, offering collectors a range of options that balance heritage cues with modern execution. It is distinct from the Olimpico line, focusing instead on a more classic and understated design language.
This reference features a case crafted from stainless steel, presenting a balanced and wearable profile suitable for various occasions. The watch is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, ensuring reliable timekeeping and a smooth sweep of the seconds hand. The crystal protecting the dial is made of sapphire, providing excellent scratch resistance and clarity. The design emphasizes legibility and a refined presence on the wrist.
For collectors, the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 9245 appeals to those seeking a well-executed timepiece from a respected manufacturer, without the overt sporting characteristics of other collections. Its design allows it to integrate seamlessly into a diverse collection, offering a blend of traditional watchmaking values and everyday wearability. The reference contributes to the breadth of the Vintage series, showcasing Girard-Perregaux's ability to produce watches with enduring appeal.
Nice, interesting, and cherry on the cake, sometimes historical. Modern and vintage, both. BUT the biggest criterion is pleasure. A watch I will wear with pleasure. Without that major criterion, there is no reason for me to buy a watch. Great find, my friend. Yep, great find. Best, Nicolas
Me, I wear most of my watches... But time is not enough to wear all, unfortunately. This one I wear! Thank you, my friend. Best Blomman
Big congrats on finding that one and you know how much I appreciate that you found this one for your collection as it opened up a great opportunity for me. Best, CC
Would be interesting to see how many we have here in the forum. Thank you, my friend! Best Blomman
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