Girard-Perregaux’s ‘Legacy Editions’ collection was launched with a limited edition of one of their most famed models, the Casquette. Although not a regularly active part of the brand’s collection families, it is worth taking note of, as a good revival of an old model always gets the attention of watch enthusiasts.
Is it faithful to the original or is it less a revival and more of a combination of several models? Do the updates/ changes make sense? Is it too big? Is there an added date window? Is it manually-wound?
This time we’re going back to the late 1960s to mid 1970s, with the new limited edition Deep Diver joins the Legacy Edition, created in conjunction with Bamford Watch Department.
In the late 1960s Girard-Perregaux introduced the Deep Diver. With a cushion-shaped super-compressor case, it integrated the new Gyromatic system, a robust bi-directional automatic winding system that enhanced energy efficiency. With an internal rotating 14-facet bezel operated by a second crown, the case shape and general aesthetics, including very 1970s colours, are typical of the period – you can see similar looks from brands ranging from Jaeger-LeCoultre to Fortis.
Super compressors were a particular type of diving watch developed in the 1950s, the term referring to a patented spring-loaded case sealing method developed by watch case manufacturer Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) and construction which meant that the seal tightened as the water pressure increased. You can read more about it at this link, and a Deep Diver owner’s look at their piece and some historical information, at here.
Now we have a new version for 2025 – a bright very 1970s orange model in a very modern titanium case measuring 40.30mm x 38mm. The two crowns, inner rotating bezel, and date window are still there. The typeface of the numerals is boxy as per the original period, and the hands and markers are lumed.
Visible through the special Deep Diver trident emblem-decorated blue metalised sapphire case back is the in-house automatic GP03300. With an oscillating weight with circular Côtes de Genève, and straight Côtes de Genève on the bridges, alongside circular graining, it beats at 28,800 VPH and has a power reserve of 46 hours.
Each watch comes on a blue rubber strap, with a second additional orange version. Limited to 350 pieces, the Girard-Perregaux Deep Diver Legacy Edition will be available through all Girard-Perregaux retailers and via Bamford Watch Department, with an RRP of USD 15,100.
[Photo credit: Girard-Perregaux]
Categories: watches
