Girard-Perregaux introduces the latest iteration of its iconic Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges. This timepiece, crafted in La Chaux-de-Fonds, embodies the pinnacle of Haute Horlogerie, showcasing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. With a focus on light and transparency, this watch is a testament to Girard-Perregaux’s dedication to innovation and excellence in watchmaking.
Introduction to the Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges
The Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges, reference number 99296-52-3434-5CC, draws inspiration from the rich history of La Chaux-de-Fonds, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to watchmaking. This model features a skeletonized design that plays with three-dimensional shapes, creating an illusion of the three iconic gold bridges floating within a light-filled case. The watch is a refined expression of Girard-Perregaux’s signature style, combining technical sophistication with aesthetic beauty.
Key Features
The latest Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges showcases several updates that enhance both its design and functionality, making it a remarkable piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Design and Craftsmanship
The watch is housed in a 44.00 mm pink gold case, with a height of 15.35 mm. The case is fitted with sapphire crystal ‘box’ style glass on both the front and back, which has been refined to create a more symmetrical and curved appearance. The openworked dial features a ring displaying pink gold indexes with luminescent material that emits a blue glow, enhancing readability in low-light conditions. The pink gold skeletonized ‘dauphine’ hands are also treated with luminescent material, maintaining the watch’s airy and elegant aesthetic.
The three gold bridges, a signature element of Girard-Perregaux, are dressed in black PVD with chamfered edges revealing a gleaming sliver of pink gold. These bridges are not merely decorative; they provide structural integrity to the movement, which appears to float within the case. The meticulous finishing of each bridge, requiring two days of work to achieve a perfect polish, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Movement and Mechanism
The Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges is powered by the self-winding mechanical movement GP09400-1273. This movement, which has a diameter of 42.00 mm and a height of 9.45 mm, operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). It consists of 260 components and 27 jewels, offering a power reserve of at least 60 hours. The movement features a tourbillon, hours, minutes, and small seconds displayed on the tourbillon itself, showcasing Girard-Perregaux’s technical mastery.
Ergonomic Enhancements
The design team at Girard-Perregaux has made several ergonomic improvements to the watch. The lugs have been shortened, and the middle of the case has been rounded to improve wearer comfort, particularly for those with slimmer wrists. Additionally, the crown has been redesigned to be larger and rounder, making it easier to manipulate. The watch comes with two straps: a black rubber strap with a fabric effect and an additional black alligator strap enhanced with a gold effect, offering versatility and style.
Technical Specifications
- Model Name: Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges
- Reference Number: 99296-52-3434-5CC
- Case Material: Pink gold
- Case Size: 44.00 mm
- Height: 15.35 mm
- Crystal: Sapphire anti-reflective ‘box’ style
- Case Back: Sapphire crystal ‘box’ style
- Dial: Ring with pink gold indexes, luminescent material (blue emission)
- Hands: Pink gold skeletonized ‘dauphine’ type with luminescent material (blue emission)
- Water Resistance: 30 meters (3 ATM)
- Movement: GP09400-1273, self-winding mechanical
- Power Reserve: Minimum 60 hours
- Frequency: 21,600 Vib/h (3 Hz)
- Components: 260
- Jewels: 27
- Strap: Black rubber with fabric effect, additional black alligator with gold effect
- Buckle: Pink gold triple folding buckle
- Price: CHF 164,000 / GBP 146,000 / EUR 180,000 / USD 171,000
Conclusion
The Girard-Perregaux Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges is a masterful blend of heritage and innovation. With its refined design, meticulous craftsmanship, and technical excellence, this watch is a true representation of the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of Haute Horlogerie. For collectors and enthusiasts, this timepiece is not just a functional accessory but a work of art that embodies the very essence of Girard-Perregaux.
