Girard-Perregaux WW.TC F1-053 Ferrari Chronograph

Luis6 · 2016-03-02T23:33:43Z

Luis6 acquires a Girard-Perregaux WW.TC Chronograph F1-053 Ferrari, trading a Rolex 16570 and GP 4946. Explore this titanium worldtimer chronograph.

Luis6

WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum

26 replies2453 views10 photos

Luis6 embarks on a quest for a true worldtimer, leading him to the Girard-Perregaux WW.TC Chronograph F1-053 Ferrari. Inspired by fellow PuristSPro members, he shares his acquisition, a '2 for 1 deal' that saw him trade in a Rolex Explorer II 16570 and a GP 4946 chronograph. This post captures the excitement of finding a watch that perfectly combines desired complications and the personal journey of refining a collection.

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Hi team,

During a recent reflection on my collection, I realized that I don't own a true worldtimer. So I did a little archive research on PuristSPro, and two posts particularly caught my eyes.

One is Crown Comfort's "Photo Session with the wonderful GP ww.tc Financial", and the other one is Nicolas's "Girard Perregaux WW TC: Some rare pieces".

I have to admit that I have not paid much attention to the WW.TC line before, but this two posts really made me wonder why I have not taken a closer look at it, especially the WW.TC chronograph, which offers chronograph and worldtime, my two favorite functions, in one watch.

In the past couple of days, I browsed through the websites of some local watch stores, and was happy to find a major second-hand shop having four WW.TC chronographs in stock, all looking good in pictures.

So today I visited the shop to see which one I would like the most. The moment that the shop owner put down all four WW.TCs in front of me, I was immediately attracted by the F1-053 Ferrari version, and decided to take it home.

In the process, I traded in a Rolex 16570 Explorer II and the GP 4946 chronograph for this WW.TC. I consider this "2 for 1 deal" more as a "2 becomes 1 reincarnation", because with the WW.TC I not only have the chrono, but also have the worldtime function, which is an upgrade (at least for me) from the 16570's second time zone.

Here are some quick phone shots to share with you.

Really like the color combination.

This watch comes with full box and papers.

I've heard that the wooden box is painted with the same paint used on the Ferrari F1-053 racing car. Not sure if this is true.

OK, wrong steering wheel, I know.

But I'm not in a position to own a Ferrari, yet.

See the carbon like effect on the dial?

The case back. The watch is made of titanium, which gives it the just right weight for me.

The rubber strap is very comfortable. This is my only watch with rubber strap.

The combination of rubber strap and lightweight titanium case makes this watch sit perfectly balanced on my wrist.

I was a little bit concerned about the 43mm case size and the 53 lug-to-lug length, but it turns out to be fine. What a happy surprise!

All credits to GP for making the lugs curve down to fit the wrist contour.

A mirror shot to simulate how other people look at me. The watch doesn't look big at all from this angle.

I'm really happy to be able to get both chrono and worldtime functions in one watch while staying in the GP party. Hooray! Couldn't be happier!

Thanks for looking.

Best,

Luis

This message has been edited by Luis6 on 2016-03-02 23:43:13

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

The author's WW.TC acquisition was a '2 for 1 deal,' trading a Rolex Explorer II 16570 and a GP 4946 chronograph, highlighting a strategic consolidation of his collection to gain a worldtimer complication.
The Girard-Perregaux WW.TC Ferrari edition is noted for its special color scheme and unique appeal, distinguishing it from other WW.TC models.
Despite its 43mm case size and 53mm lug-to-lug length, the watch wears comfortably due to GP's design, with lugs that curve to fit the wrist contour, effectively 'shrinking' its perceived size.
The combination of a rubber strap and lightweight titanium case contributes to the watch's comfortable and balanced feel on the wrist.
The WW.TC line, particularly the chronograph models, offers a compelling combination of chronograph and worldtime functions, making it a desirable choice for collectors seeking both complications.
The wooden box for the Ferrari edition is rumored to be painted with the same paint used on the F1-053 racing car, adding a unique detail for collectors.

The Discussion

blomman Mr Blue

Mar 2, 2016

Wonderful catch, my friend! :)

Congrats! That is a very cool piece! Happy to see you stay in the GP family. Best Blomman

Luis6

Mar 3, 2016

Thank you, Chief! I'm more than happy to stay in the GP family. :) [nt]

blomman Mr Blue

Mar 4, 2016

I should add, the watch sits perfect on your wrist! [nt]

Luis6

Mar 4, 2016

It does. So glad to hear that. Thank you. [nt]

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Mar 2, 2016

Congrats Luis!

This looks great on you! Happy for you bro Cheers Robin

Luis6

Mar 3, 2016

Thank you, bro. I'm very much inspired the fact that you decided to get a 44mm watch. :) [nt]

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Girard-Perregaux WW.TC F1-053 Ferrari Chronograph

About the Girard Perregaux Gyromatic Ref. 4946

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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