Comments:
(GP 2007) Reference 25820 - the return of the column wheel in the Vintage45 range
Dear enthusiasts and GP fans,
it is with great pleasure to share some more details and impressions of a new release for 2007.
Introduced in SIHH 2007, the new reference 25820, which is extend and round up the Vintage45 range of non-round watches with a decidedly classic touch.
The reference code already may seem familiar to some; the brand new "Vintage Square", the first model to bear GP´s new large caliber GP4500, shares the same model code and makes for the second model to come with a square-shaped Vintage45 case. The "Vintage Square" already found a lot of fans, which appreciate the substantial casework and more massive feel towards the rectangular proportioned models. And if you didn´t discover the special merits so far, this earlier coverage may give some impressions and food for thoughts!
The new ref. 25820 "Vintage Square Chronograph" shares the dimensions of the "Vintage Square" and the "Vintage Full Calendar", being the third model to offer a square-shaped case in this range.
But that´s not the only detail which really sets the new 25820 apart from others:
Like it´s predessor, the ref. 25990 "Vintage45 Chronograph", the new ref. 25820 is a genuine GP manufacture-made watch through and through.
Not just the case is manufactured in-house, but the movement caliber GP 03C0 is as well; upon it´s introduction in 1999, GP´s column-wheel automatic chronograph movement was among, if not the, smallest automatic chronographs ever made!
The heart of the chronograph continues to be the column-wheel mechanism, often regarded the finest and most elaborate way to control the chronograph functions. 9 teeth or "columns" on a ratchet will swith from start, stop to reset and those who already got to handle a piece with a GP column-wheel chronograph will agree in that it´s a smooth function with a good tactile feel.
The outcome is an accurate, nicely finished and very reliable movement; the dimensions are easily overseen, but add some challenge during production and assembly. Working with parts that small isn´t that easy:
The new reference 25820 will be available in 4 exciting variants; white or rose gold cases with silver-white or black dial allow for a choice, which probably won´t be easy given all are interesting and handsome:
All models feature the iconic curvature that hugs any wrist so well
and of course beautiful dials with nice details, such as the recessed subcounters which are finished with a circular graining:
A new feature of the 25820 is the use of luminous hands, which improve legibility a lot; particularly the glossy black dial and polished hands are apt to reflections, where the luminous filling will ensure easy reading of the watch.
(notice the reflections almost "hiding" the numerals between 6 and 12, but the watch still to be very legible)
Another much appreciated feature is the transparent back; a sapphire crystal allows for free view of the base movement, which is fitted with a solid gold rotor. The curvature will ensure greatly comfortable fit, which is enhanced by the great fit of the straps especially fabricated for the case shape and fitted with metal inlays for proper fit.
The reference 25990, which won numerous hearts over it´s lifetime between 1999 and 2004, suggest a comparison.
As we see, the case of the new reference 25820 is not exceptionally larger; still the case shape makes for a much more massive look and an even more substantial feeling on the wrist due to the higher weight.
Again, reflections causing troubles to read the time for earlier models are now overcome by means of the luminous filling, which comes handy not only under low light conditions.
Personally i find the new "Vintage Square Chronograph" to be beautiful and well in line with the current demand for larger cases, without being oversized or unwearable. The elegant lines and the slightly more casual look by the new hands result in an interesting contrast, which to me qualifies the new reference 25820 as one of the most versatile models in GP´s portfolio.
I´m sure the new 25820 will break some hearts very quickly; it´s certainly unusual and while it´s not that easily visible, GP´s own chronograph movement inside makes it very special to me.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Data Sheet:
Model: Vintage Square Chronograph
Reference: 25820
Case: White Gold or Rose Gold
Dimensions: 34.20 x 32.00 mm
Height: 13.56mm
Crystals: Sapphire crystal, back and front
Water resistance: 3 Atm
Movement: GP 03C0 automatic column-wheel chronograph
Caliber: 10.5 ligne
Frequency: 28.800 A/h
Jewels: 38
Power reserve: minimum of 36 hours
Straps: Alligator, with matching 18K gold folding buckle
Tentative price range, swiss exports prices not including taxes:
White Gold region of 23.850 CHF
Rose Gold region of 22.390 CHF
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finally, some "real life" impressions kindly submitted by Markus/MCG, which may give a better impression of the fit and feel:
Vintage Square Full Calendar
Vintage Square with GP4500 caliber
Vintage Chronograph reference 25990
new Vintage Square Chronograph
With thanks to Markus and Girard-Perregaux!
Greetings from Germany,
Peter
it is with great pleasure to share some more details and impressions of a new release for 2007.
Introduced in SIHH 2007, the new reference 25820, which is extend and round up the Vintage45 range of non-round watches with a decidedly classic touch.
The reference code already may seem familiar to some; the brand new "Vintage Square", the first model to bear GP´s new large caliber GP4500, shares the same model code and makes for the second model to come with a square-shaped Vintage45 case. The "Vintage Square" already found a lot of fans, which appreciate the substantial casework and more massive feel towards the rectangular proportioned models. And if you didn´t discover the special merits so far, this earlier coverage may give some impressions and food for thoughts!
The new ref. 25820 "Vintage Square Chronograph" shares the dimensions of the "Vintage Square" and the "Vintage Full Calendar", being the third model to offer a square-shaped case in this range.
But that´s not the only detail which really sets the new 25820 apart from others:
Like it´s predessor, the ref. 25990 "Vintage45 Chronograph", the new ref. 25820 is a genuine GP manufacture-made watch through and through.
Not just the case is manufactured in-house, but the movement caliber GP 03C0 is as well; upon it´s introduction in 1999, GP´s column-wheel automatic chronograph movement was among, if not the, smallest automatic chronographs ever made!
The heart of the chronograph continues to be the column-wheel mechanism, often regarded the finest and most elaborate way to control the chronograph functions. 9 teeth or "columns" on a ratchet will swith from start, stop to reset and those who already got to handle a piece with a GP column-wheel chronograph will agree in that it´s a smooth function with a good tactile feel.
The outcome is an accurate, nicely finished and very reliable movement; the dimensions are easily overseen, but add some challenge during production and assembly. Working with parts that small isn´t that easy:
The new reference 25820 will be available in 4 exciting variants; white or rose gold cases with silver-white or black dial allow for a choice, which probably won´t be easy given all are interesting and handsome:
All models feature the iconic curvature that hugs any wrist so well
and of course beautiful dials with nice details, such as the recessed subcounters which are finished with a circular graining:
A new feature of the 25820 is the use of luminous hands, which improve legibility a lot; particularly the glossy black dial and polished hands are apt to reflections, where the luminous filling will ensure easy reading of the watch.
(notice the reflections almost "hiding" the numerals between 6 and 12, but the watch still to be very legible)
Another much appreciated feature is the transparent back; a sapphire crystal allows for free view of the base movement, which is fitted with a solid gold rotor. The curvature will ensure greatly comfortable fit, which is enhanced by the great fit of the straps especially fabricated for the case shape and fitted with metal inlays for proper fit.
The reference 25990, which won numerous hearts over it´s lifetime between 1999 and 2004, suggest a comparison.
As we see, the case of the new reference 25820 is not exceptionally larger; still the case shape makes for a much more massive look and an even more substantial feeling on the wrist due to the higher weight.
Again, reflections causing troubles to read the time for earlier models are now overcome by means of the luminous filling, which comes handy not only under low light conditions.
Personally i find the new "Vintage Square Chronograph" to be beautiful and well in line with the current demand for larger cases, without being oversized or unwearable. The elegant lines and the slightly more casual look by the new hands result in an interesting contrast, which to me qualifies the new reference 25820 as one of the most versatile models in GP´s portfolio.
I´m sure the new 25820 will break some hearts very quickly; it´s certainly unusual and while it´s not that easily visible, GP´s own chronograph movement inside makes it very special to me.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Data Sheet:
Model: Vintage Square Chronograph
Reference: 25820
Case: White Gold or Rose Gold
Dimensions: 34.20 x 32.00 mm
Height: 13.56mm
Crystals: Sapphire crystal, back and front
Water resistance: 3 Atm
Movement: GP 03C0 automatic column-wheel chronograph
Caliber: 10.5 ligne
Frequency: 28.800 A/h
Jewels: 38
Power reserve: minimum of 36 hours
Straps: Alligator, with matching 18K gold folding buckle
Tentative price range, swiss exports prices not including taxes:
White Gold region of 23.850 CHF
Rose Gold region of 22.390 CHF
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finally, some "real life" impressions kindly submitted by Markus/MCG, which may give a better impression of the fit and feel:
Vintage Square Full Calendar
Vintage Square with GP4500 caliber
Vintage Chronograph reference 25990
new Vintage Square Chronograph
With thanks to Markus and Girard-Perregaux!
Greetings from Germany,
Peter
Some more pictures
Please keep in mind all pieces are prototypes!
Hope you enjoyed!
Greetings from Germany,
Peter
Peter, how do you like the new Vintage Square comparing to the Vintage45 Chrono of yours?
The new case looks massive. Although nice, I don't know if I would prefer it over the older Vintage45 Chrono. The proportion of the older case is perfect on my 6 3/4" wrist. The new one may be just too massive.
Better, from a wrist feel perspective!
Howdy,
it´s really more massive and more than pictures may tell; as usual with rectangular watches, the diameter (and substance) does grow exponentially. So it´s not just two mm more, but really a lot "bigger".
Well, i really love the old 25990 and one of these is my preferred daily wearer.
I find them to be a perfect fit on the wrist, but the black dial with bright polished hands at times can be difficult to read.
The new 25820 does a lot better in this regard.
On the wrist, the new square shape results in a different placement on the wrist.
Due to the wider case, it doesn´t "move" on the wrist as easily, which is supported by the wider strap at the same time.
It´s very comfortable and not too heavy, but a nicely balanced feeling.
What i don´t love that much is the subdials to be a little more dominant due to the wider case.
With the 25990, the subdials are located more towards the outer edge of the dial, which naturally isn´t possible with a wider dial.
But that´s a subjective matter of preferences only.
So all in all, if you´re fine with the 25990 i´d easily expect you will find the new 25820 very comfortable, even if it´s a little more massive and larger!
Cheers,
Peter
Obviously your pictures are by FAR better then mines ;-)
Sorry for that and thanks for your wonderful pictures...!
Peeeeeeeeeter!!! Your pictures blow me away!!!
Over and over again, thanks so very much for making this forum so fun.
Not at all!
Hi Markus,
thanks again for the wrist shots (not only for these, but for the others too)!!
Admittedly pictures on the wrist aren´t my preferred field of picturing, so i´m really glad you took the time to try the Vintage models!
Having a closer look at the details is one impression, but the watch on the wrist is a different and not less helpful one!
Cheers,
Peter
thanks again for the wrist shots (not only for these, but for the others too)!!
Admittedly pictures on the wrist aren´t my preferred field of picturing, so i´m really glad you took the time to try the Vintage models!
Having a closer look at the details is one impression, but the watch on the wrist is a different and not less helpful one!
Cheers,
Peter
stunning watches,.........
i like the bigger size compared to the 25990, do you have any idea when they will be available?
thanks,
juko
thanks,
juko
Depending on the region, these should be available within the next weeks
Howdy,
as far as i can say, the first batches of the new 25820 are scheduled for delivery within the next weeks!
And it´s really a watch that needs to be seen on the wrist; the larger case makes for a real difference and i´m sure you will like it!
Cheers,
Peter
as far as i can say, the first batches of the new 25820 are scheduled for delivery within the next weeks!
And it´s really a watch that needs to be seen on the wrist; the larger case makes for a real difference and i´m sure you will like it!
Cheers,
Peter
Great Report
Once again, Peter, you've done it again!! Superb photos!! The square case does make it more unusal and bold.
What I am eager to see now from GP is that they add a few complications onto the new 4500 base movements and hopefully they will be in-house module too. Another one I really would like to see is a new integrated chrono movements from GP. Hope they are working on them now. Any news on the new minute repeater movement??
Glad you enjoyed!
G'day,
glad to see you enjoyed the ramblings!
It´s really a nice watch and one that deserves to be seen up close, so you may do well to look for arrivals at your GP AD!
In terms of the complications, i think it is safe to say there´s work on many levels.
Some will be modules, others will be more integrated solutions.
And while some may be the more affordable range, there´s work in the ultra-high end region too.
Just that i can´t share details on ongoing R&D work or possible delivery times!
Something not widely known is the smallest details often cause the greatest delay.
For small manufacturers such as GP and JR (where "small" refers to annual output, compared to "big" brands like AP, PP or even Omega/Longines/Rolex), parts supplied by external sources require serious patience. An example are jewels, which are prerequisite in watchmaking and need to be ordered 18 month in advance. Dials and hands can be up to 12 month and other parts aren´t much easier to come by.
Therefore introducing a new model not necessarily means it will be available very soon or even in larger quantities; the Evo Moon is an example in this regard.
But i´m totally convinced there are several very nice things in the pipeline and you will like them a lot, even if it may take it´s time until public presentations.
Cheers,
Peter
glad to see you enjoyed the ramblings!
It´s really a nice watch and one that deserves to be seen up close, so you may do well to look for arrivals at your GP AD!
In terms of the complications, i think it is safe to say there´s work on many levels.
Some will be modules, others will be more integrated solutions.
And while some may be the more affordable range, there´s work in the ultra-high end region too.
Just that i can´t share details on ongoing R&D work or possible delivery times!
Something not widely known is the smallest details often cause the greatest delay.
For small manufacturers such as GP and JR (where "small" refers to annual output, compared to "big" brands like AP, PP or even Omega/Longines/Rolex), parts supplied by external sources require serious patience. An example are jewels, which are prerequisite in watchmaking and need to be ordered 18 month in advance. Dials and hands can be up to 12 month and other parts aren´t much easier to come by.
Therefore introducing a new model not necessarily means it will be available very soon or even in larger quantities; the Evo Moon is an example in this regard.
But i´m totally convinced there are several very nice things in the pipeline and you will like them a lot, even if it may take it´s time until public presentations.
Cheers,
Peter