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As a lot of you understand, the late ’60s and the primary half of the ’70s had been an period of design experimentation within the watch business. Whereas Girard-Perregaux won’t be the primary title on individuals’s tongues with regards to funky watches from this era, don’t assume the model didn’t have any. With the Casquette and the Deep Diver collection, Girard-Perregaux launched a number of excellent watches that completely signify the period’s type. As we speak, GP brings again the Deep Diver ref. 9108, which debuted in 1969. This 350-piece restricted version is a collaborative effort with Bamford Watch Division and is the most recent addition to Girard-Perregaux’s Legacy Editions.
Actually, after I first laid my eyes on the brand new Girard-Perregaux Deep Diver, I hadn’t anticipated to see a cool, colourful watch. The Deep Diver title ought to have ready me considerably, however that would go many various methods when it comes to design. This title first appeared within the model’s assortment in 1957 with the reference 7254. Regardless of being stress proof against 100 fathoms, the watch seemed very very like what we’d contemplate a gown watch at this time. Within the years after, nonetheless, the Deep Diver collection confirmed an incredible versatility in keeping with the design developments that characterised dive watches’ evolution.
The story of the Girard-Perregaux Deep Diver Legacy Version
In 1969, Girard-Perregaux launched the Deep Diver ref. 9108, the final design of which was the blueprint for this new Deep Diver Legacy Version. The watch launched an EPSA cushion-shaped Tremendous Compressor case with two crowns and a cool, era-appropriate dial design. The automated GP 461 caliber contained in the watch featured the model’s progressive Gyromatic system. This technique used a unidirectional winding mechanism counting on two “Gyrotron” wheels with rubies somewhat than ball bearings, as most self-winding calibers had. The largest benefit of the Gyromatic system was the prevention of wear and tear and friction.
For the brand new Legacy Version, the dial design pays tribute to the daring aesthetic of the 1971 mannequin, which got here with a pink and black dial. However somewhat than merely recreating that colorway, Girard-Perregaux collaborated with Bamford Watch Division to plot a pleasant twist on it. This watch’s dial combines orange, white, and blue for a vivid new model of the basic. However the Bamford remedy of the dial is simply one of many many particulars of the watch.
The main points of the Deep Diver Legacy Version
Let’s go over the small print to get a greater thought. The brand new Deep Diver incorporates a 38mm Grade 5 titanium cushion-shaped case with a 40.3mm size, a 13.91mm thickness, and a 200m depth ranking. On the appropriate aspect of the case, you will see two crowns, similar to the previous mannequin. The higher crown controls the internal bezel, whereas the decrease one controls the motion. As you’ll be able to see within the photos, the ending appears to be like somewhat spectacular. The highest of the case options radial brushing that accentuates the 14-sided bezel. This impressed the form of the Laureato, which debuted in 1975.
The perimeters of the case characteristic vertical brushing, and the lugs have a cultured end for some further visible drama. And take a look at the crowns, which have a crosshatch sample, with the decrease of the 2 additionally that includes the “GP” brand. Lastly, the chamfer that connects the case again with the flanks has a cultured end to spice the profile view up tremendously. All in all, it’s an intricate and stellar-looking mixture of finishes.
A dial designed in collaboration with Bamford Watch Division
As talked about, throughout the case lies a colourful dial combining orange, white, and blue. The massive, spherical central portion options the retro Girard-Perregaux brand in blue on the higher half, and you will see the Bamford brand in a lighter shade of orange on the decrease half. So far as co-branding goes, that is tastefully performed. The central orange circle connects to the date body, which sits at 3 o’clock throughout the white ring holding the hour and minute markers. The funky orange hour indexes and the fingers characteristic orange Tremendous-LumiNova that, curiously, lights up vivid blue at midnight.
The orange hour markers are positioned between blue shapes that proceed on the internal bezel with the 60-minute dive scale. I really like the retro-style numerals that add significantly to the funkiness of the general aesthetic. As most of you’ll know, unscrewing the crown at 2 o’clock will allow you to rotate the internal bezel. Upon doing so, the dial’s look will even change. Turning the bezel breaks the shapes till you align them once more with the markers on the dial. It’s a enjoyable train that proves why the late ’60s and early ’70s had been a wild time in design.
The watch comes fitted with a blue rubber strap that completes the look properly. This strap options quick-release spring bars, making it straightforward to swap it out without having a software. Along with the blue strap, Girard-Perregaux consists of an orange rubber strap to modify issues up, and each straps have a branded titanium buckle.
The Girard-Perregaux caliber GP03300
Contained in the Deep Diver Legacy Version’s cushion-shaped case beats the in-house GP03300 motion. This automated caliber is simply 3.36mm thick, operates at 28,800vph, and offers 46 hours of energy reserve. For essentially the most half, the motion hides safely behind a case again with a small blue-tinted sapphire show. This window options the Deep Diver title and a trident positioned on waves to point its deep-sea function. For those who look previous the print, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of the caliber beneath, including some visible depth.
Last ideas on the brand new Girard-Perregaux Deep Diver Legacy Version
As talked about, Girard-Perregaux will produce 350 items of this new Deep Diver Legacy Version, every with a value of €16,000. Contemplating that the Deep Diver is a favourite amongst Girard-Perregaux collectors, I don’t doubt these watches will promote quick. Moreover, the brand new colorway created in collaboration with Bamford Watch Division is a vibrant new tackle the 1971 mannequin. It makes this a fascinating collector’s version of this basic diver. I can’t wait to see whether or not this launch is a one-time deal or if GP will finally launch extra Deep Diver editions. With all of the historical past and the design which can be there, the mannequin may make an superior comeback. For now, this funky Deep Diver Legacy Version is a good first step!
