Review
blomman Mr Blue presents a detailed comparison of the Girard Perregaux Vintage 1945 Large Date, Moon-Phases with Sapphire Dial in both stainless steel and pink gold. His analysis focuses on how the choice of metal profoundly impacts the watch's aesthetic and the legibility of its Art Deco design and intricate movement details. This post offers valuable insights for collectors considering this specific reference.
Friends,
I think many of us got captured by the Vintage 1945 with Sapphire dial!
We already had a detailed look on the Steel version, now I thought we should have a closer look on the Pink Gold version.
The Pink gold adds some more color to the watch. But what I find most striking is the contrast!
From being a monochrome, technical watch to become a warm, still technical but much more artistic watch.
The gold enhances the hands the applied indexes, but even more it enhances the Moon Phases!
Stainless Steel version:
All this makes the Art Deco design come out much more on the Pink Gold version than on the Steel version, in my opinion.
Even if the movement parts are the same on the dial side in the same metals, the contrast between the gold and the smoky sapphire dial makes the movement details come out even more.
The large date window have the same frame as on the SS version, but below the 12 in gold you notice it much more.
Same goes for the Moon Phases, the Gold Moon and gold seconds hand are much more visible here. Another splash of color is the sky between the Moons, which is dark blue on the PG version.
The case is the by now well-known Vintage 1945 XXL case. The curves and the stepped bezel are easier to see here. Same goes for the lugs. These tapered lugs are just awesome!
Same as the front goes for the back. The color makes the case shape come out much more.
Inside is the GP03300 automatic movement. Beating at 4 Hz, with a power reserve of minimum 46 hours.
Stainless Steel version:
The Pink Gold version has the GP03300-0062, while the Stainless Steel version has the GPGP03300-0105.
I suspect the only difference is the Pink Gold rotor on the later.
This is a big piece of gold. It doesn’t go by unnoticed!
On the wrist it sparks! It got energy!
The watch has character, good looks, great technic – it got an edge compared with most watches you see!
I would not get away with wearing such a big gold watch in my line of work as an everyday watch…
But yes, I would LOVE to!
Hm, this watch has been “eating my brain” since I first saw it in the metal….
Which version do I prefer….? I think the only true answer would be both!
And you? Which one would you choose now when we had a closer look on both versions?
Best
Blomman
This message has been edited by blomman on 2014-12-22 01:35:38The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 line, introduced in 1994, draws inspiration from historical models, specifically a 1945 Art Deco piece. This collection is characterized by its rectangular or tonneau-shaped cases and a design language that evokes mid-20th century aesthetics. The Vintage 1945 series quickly became a cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux's offerings in the 1990s, reinterpreting classic forms with contemporary watchmaking standards. It represents a significant period for the brand in re-establishing its heritage-inspired collections.
Early models in the Vintage 1945 series typically featured stainless steel cases, though gold variants were also produced. The case dimensions varied depending on the specific model, often presenting a balanced profile suitable for dress wear. These watches were frequently equipped with automatic movements, showcasing Girard-Perregaux's in-house capabilities or finely finished outsourced calibers. The crystal was commonly sapphire, ensuring durability and legibility, while water resistance was generally suitable for daily wear rather than aquatic activities.
For collectors, the Vintage 1945 series appeals to those interested in neo-vintage watches that successfully blend historical design with modern execution. The 1994 introduction year marks it as one of the earlier and more influential lines from Girard-Perregaux's resurgence in the 1990s. Its various iterations, including time-only, small seconds, and later complicated versions, offer a range of choices for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive rectangular watch with a clear lineage.
I surprised myself to love it a lot, which is, indeed, a big surprise for me. Best, Nicolas
You see, there is room for colored metal in our collections as well! :) Honestly, I am a bit surprised here. Was sure I would prefer the Steel, but after looking at the Gold version in real.... Best Blomman
Let's say it another way... If SS didn't exist, I would think about getting this one in RG. Best, Nicolas
The concept of see-through dial and the contemporary style work much better with a neutral colour imho. Thanks for the post Blomman. Fx
The dial seems more alive, contrast more obvious and the moonphase is definitely nicer. Overall a warmer and more "romantic" look. The steel version looks more technical and also very nice of course. The RG version pips it in my view Great pics and report as always Blomman! Cheers Robin
Also, I think the contrast of the gold hands and numerals give more depth overall. Steel in the photo is cool, but perhaps too cool for me.
This thread is active on the Girard Perregaux forum with 33 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
