GIRARD PERREGAUX | S.I.H.H. 2010 | 1966 Small Seconds

GIRARD PERREGAUX 1966 Small Second

A Timeless Design with Enduring Charm: The Small Second Model

By Yasuto Shibuya

Following the three-hand, full calendar, annual calendar & equation of time models, a limited edition with a small second complication has been newly introduced this year. The dial is a simple metallic silver with bar indices and leaf hands, yet it possesses a captivating allure that lingers in the memory. Furthermore, the use of rare palladium for the case, rather than common white gold, is a significant characteristic of this model. It is powered by the in-house automatic movement "GP3300," renowned for its high timekeeping accuracy and durability, and with a case thickness of just 8.62mm, it is exceptionally comfortable to wear. This is one of the watches we highly recommend for those seeking a refined timepiece for long-term companionship.

Automatic, palladium case, 38mm diameter, exhibition case back, limited to 199 pieces worldwide, 1,386,000 yen (preliminary price), scheduled for release in June 2010

BRAND HISTORY

Girard-Perregaux, one of the few brands in the world with an integrated in-house manufacturing system, is a key player in the watchmaking industry, with its foundations laid by two great watchmakers during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The first was Jean-François Bautte, who established a watch workshop in Geneva in 1791. He was favored by powerful figures of the time for his numerous slim pocket watches and, in the early 1820s, established a modern production line. The second was Constant Girard, who founded the predecessor company of Girard-Perregaux in '52. In '67, he created the Three Gold Bridges Tourbillon, a design that continues to be inherited in current models. He won gold medals twice at the Paris Universal Exposition and, in 1880, also produced wristwatches at the request of German Emperor Wilhelm II.

After the management of each company was passed down through the founder's descendants, the foundation of the current Girard-Perregaux company was established in 1906 when the management rights of the company founded by Bautte were transferred to Girard-Perregaux.

From the mid to late 20th century, the company achieved a solid position in the Swiss watchmaking world through its overwhelming technical prowess, including the first mass production of high-beat movements at 36,000 vibrations per hour, the revival of the Three Gold Bridges Tourbillon, and the development of the world's smallest automatic chronograph movement. Currently, it also serves as a supplier, leveraging its advanced technical capabilities to provide movements to other brands.

Founding Year: 1791
Place of Origin: Geneva, Switzerland
Main Series Names: Vintage 1945, Laureato EVO3, ww.tc, World Timer
Inquiries: Girard-Perregaux (Sowind Japan)
Cat's Eye

Official Website: http://www.gp-japan.co.jp/