Girard Perregaux

BenJones
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Introduction to GP and the 1966 Full Calander

Having been a watch fan for many years for some reason I have never found myself investigating any of the Girard Perregaux line up - this was until i noticed the GP 1966 Full Callendar.

I have read through the detailed review that is posted on this forum and it all confirms my initial view that this is a pukha watch that seems to tick all the boxes.

However, I have a few questions for forum members in relation to this watch. Specifically trying to further understand the quality and heritage of the GP3300 Caliber and also the history of the watch (ie is it an updated of an older model or is it a totally new model based on Robert Flemings description).

With regards to the brand itself - can it compare to the likes of Patek , Lange and Breguet? Whilst it seems to be a true Manufacturer (inhouse mechanisms etc) I do not understand why it doesn t attract all the attention that the likes of PP and Lange do? Are GP up there in terms of build quality, manufacturing technology, durability?

From my searches (wiki etc), it appears that GP is owned by one person rather than being part of a large group (LVMH, Richmont, Swatch etc), is GP the main brand of the Group and if so does the group supply other manufacturers with their mechanisms?

With regards to the GP3300 - does it include any non GP parts (Lemania / ETA etc..) or is it all purely in house?

I think its very good to see that GP make pieces from Palladium - something rather unique amongst the well know watch brands.

I have read a number of articles written by Nick Foulkes (GQ / Daily Mail etc) who seems to be a strong advocate of the watch and also claims to have persuaded Dottore Gino Macaluso to make it.

To me the new face lifted Patel 5396 looks almost identical but for nearly double the price - is this due to anything other than the brand? ie is the actual mechanism or watch likely to have cost more to manufacture?

With regards to price - whilst i wont go into the specifics a review of older watch publications reveals that this one was launched with a very very modest price but has since had two very very extreme price rises. The level of these price rises surprises me as they are substantially higher than those of the other major brands .

Apologies for the numerous questions - any assistance in enhancing my knowlegde of the brand and the specific watch would be greatly appreciated.

thanks in advance

Ben