About the Watch

Chronometry had held the status of the ultimate achievement in watchmaking since the 18th century. In 1966, Girard-Perregaux embarked on a significant journey by subjecting their newly developed Gyromatic Calibre 32A movements to the scrutiny of the Bureaux officiels de contrôle de la marche des montres (B.O). The calibre boasted an impressive oscillation rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour (vph), representing a deliberate choice in the evolution of the line. The strategy was to prioritize increasing the frequency of the movement's oscillations over enlarging the balance wheel, under the premise that a faster balance swing would minimize the impact of positional changes and temperature variations on timekeeping accuracy. Previous Gyromatic models featured calibres running at 18,000 (all 21 and 22 series) and 21,600 vph (most of the 32 series, excluding the 32.7 and 32A). However, the majority of already produced Gyromatics failed to meet the stringent criteria for chronometer certification. The initial 21 series debuted in 1957, followed by the 32 series in 1962. By 1966, Girard-Perregaux's in-house research and development team, a rarity among watch manufacturers at the time, had reached readiness. The Gyromatic Chronometer HF, equipped with an exceptional high-beat movement featuring hack seconds, a micro-metric fine regulator screw, ISOVAL self-compensating hairspring, and a monometallic balance, was produced in a serial run of 662. Each of the 662 cased movements underwent a rigorous chronometer test by the B.O. for 15 consecutive days in six positions and three temperatures. Impressively, every Chronometer HF proved precise enough to earn the additional distinction of "especially good results," noted on the issued certificates known as "bulletin de marche." Notably, 40 of these watches underwent an additional round of testing at the Neuchatel Observatory, extending the evaluation period to 45 days. These models are easily identified by the "Observatory Chronometer" signature on their dials, distinguishing them from the "Chronometer HF" counterparts described above.

About the Brand

For over 230 years, Girard Perregaux, based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, has been playing with shapes and materials. This is particularly evident in the various interpretations of their iconic designs, which have consistently brought masterpieces to the world of watchmaking. What they all have in common is that they defy convention to literally turn the world of watchmaking on its head. To this day, Girard Perregaux embodies this young playfulness in its designs and has thus remained true to its philosophy.