The Girard-Perregaux 1966 in Steel

Girard Perregaux 1966 steel

 

The story in a second:

The most important Girard-Perregaux of 2015 isn’t the one that just won a major prize. When Antonio Calce came on board as Girard-Perregaux’s CEO at the start of 2015, he discovered a sleeping giant. One of Switzerland’s most storied brands, GP had over 200 years of history at its disposal – but this legacy was underutilised.

Girard Perregaux 1966 steel

Calce resolved to remedy this situation by simplifying product offerings, capitalising on the impressive in-house capacity at his disposal, and placing a greater emphasis on Girard-Perregaux’s museum. That GP recently took home the award for the best striking watch at the GPHG for their Minute Repeater Tourbillon with Gold Bridges is proof that they’re doing things right at the big-budget end of town. But while this recognition is important, Calce says, “You don’t build a brand with high-end products, you build prestige. You need an entry level product to attract new customers.” The perfect product to do that is the new 1966 in steel.

Girard Perregaux 1966 steel crown

The elegant 1966 is already a flagship watch for the brand. At 40mm, with an opaline dial and leaf-shaped hands, powered by a beautifully finished in-house movement, it rivals the Calatrava or Patrimony for simplicity and style. Until now it’s only been available in precious metals, placing it in direct competition with Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. But GP have just changed the game. By releasing the 1966 in steel they’ve created one of the best value propositions in elegant dress watches. For just over 10k, you get a whole lot of watch.

Girard Perregaux 1966 steel case

Girard-Perregaux have always been tremendous watchmakers, though far too often (high-end masterpieces aside) they’ve hidden their light under a bushel. The 1966 in steel is the first step in changing that. Expect to hear a whole lot more about GP in the years to come.