Vintage Girard-Perregaux Gyromatic Chronometer HF – All original, 36000 A/h High beat cal. 42.1, 1968

When learning about brands, often the first thing one comes to know about Girard-Perregaux is that its watches are complicated. Very complicated. Tourbillons, Minute Repeaters, and other refined Grande Complication models are peppered throughout GPs portfolio, which indicates that the brand takes great pride in its traditional watchmaking. Digging deeper, one realizes that this has been the case for a very long time – over 225 years. What’s more, GP managed to register over 100 patents during that time – which rоughs out to an average of one patented innovation every 2.5 years – as well as win numerous exhibition rewards and observatory certificates. The watch on offer here is responsible for far too many of the latter to count.
The Gyromatic Chronometer HF is powered by the Girard-Perregaux cal. 42.1, which many consider among the most important feats of Swiss horological engineering. What makes it so special? It was one of the first movements to operate at 36000 vibrations per hour (or 10HZ) – a frequency that lends its seconds hand a smoother, more serene motion. Coupled with the tonneau-shaped case, this foreshadowed the changing tastes that would come to characterize the 1970s. Of course, collectors wouldn’t love them so much if they weren’t as finely finished and masterfully crafted, so it’s a good thing this example is in untouched – although not quite immaculate – condition, features no replacement parts, and comes equipped with its original crown and steel bracelet. The latter provides very comfortable wear, in case you’re wondering. Still it misses some of the links and a bracelet extender has to be used to fit 18.5 wrist. Serviced in 03.2021 and ticking good.

Covered by a limited warranty of 1 year, starting on the date of purchase.