New Release
Nicolas (amanico) provides live pictures and detailed impressions of the Girard Perregaux Vintage 45 "Le Corbusier" Concrete Dial 2015. He emphasizes that the concrete dial's texture and appeal are far superior in person than in photographs, making the oversized Vintage 45 case a fitting display for this spectacular feature.
The 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.
Quite mesmerizing, the concrete. Still hoping for the pony
Thank you for delight
I mean, what GP will explain to the collectors who bought the Le Corbusier set several years ago? The keystone of the set was the concrete dial one and several years later, 50 become available on a stand alone basis? It is for me very surprising from GP. I understand the will to create such watch: after all, the concrete dial concept is appealing and commercially speaking, it is difficult to resist. But sometimes, when a brand wants to become really consistent and wants to win the collectors' fa
I hope we can see it in the flesh again soon, but the photos are very promising. Now about your "complaints": The strap: should not be a big deal. I think I don't want the strap to take away attention from the dial, so I think the black works well, but replacing it is easy enough for someone who wants. The written logo on the crystal: I feel the same, better without. BUT: I'm sure this can be done, just need to replace it with a standard XXL crystal. The case back: the strongest point: totally a
The see-through caseback seems to be mandatory to sell watches... and of course we know it is not the truth especially with LE. And when you see that the Printemps LE (2 pieces!) also kept the see-through caseback, we have to consider that a lot of efforts have to be made before the brands understand that it is not mandatory. Best Fx
and perfectly matches the case. Thank you for the additional pictures. Cheers, Mark
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