The launch of a new icon
Caliber GP4800
GIRARD-PERREGAUX: MASTERS OF MOVEMENT AND DESIGN FROM THE START
At Girard-Perregaux, the creation of movements transcends engineering. It is the fusion of philosophy, design, and heritage. Since its founding in 1791, the Manufacture has nurtured a rare ability: to conceive, develop and produce its own movements, all in-house. The Maison envisioned what is now known as an ’integrated manufacture’, a strength it proudly perpetuates today with the launch of the Calibre GP4800.
Entirely developed in-house, it represents a clean- slate approach, free of technical constraints and creative compromise. A movement that encapsulates the enduring ethos of the brand: design and performance, innovation and heritage, all united in perfect harmony.
Recognising the growing interest for smaller case sizes, the Maison has sought to create a compact movement. The Calibre GP4800 measures 25.60 mm (111/2’’’) in diameter with a thickness of 4.28 mm. Furthermore, its design allows the Manufacture to potentially combine the base movement with additional complications in the future. However, despite being compact, the Calibre GP4800 plays host to an array of technical refinements that collectively deliver precision, reliability and beauty.
A silicium escapement and a stop seconds function
The GP4800 is fitted with a silicium escapement, featuring an escape wheel, pallet lever and roller, all crafted from the lightweight material. Silicium is exceptionally smooth, non-magnetic and highly resistant to wear, attributes that make it ideal for precision watchmaking. Moreover, the hardness of silicium, its low coefficient of friction and its resistance to wear significantly enhance the reliability and longevity of the mechanism.
These components are also optimally shaped to maximise efficiency and chronometric performance. In addition, the GP4800 is equipped with a stop-seconds function allowing the wearer to set the time precisely.
A variable-inertia balance
The GP4800 features a superior variable- inertia balance. With most watches, the rate is adjusted using a ‘raquette’. This device alters the effective length of the balance spring, making the watch run faster or slower. With the new variable-inertia balance, the length of the balance spring is fixed and the rate is altered by adjusting four white gold timing screws mounted on the rim of the balance wheel, ensuring that the rate can be set more precisely.
A powerful barrel plays host to the mainspring that delivers significant torque. The balance wheel has an inertia of 8 mg per cm2 which, together with the variable-inertia balance, mitigates the influence of shocks. Moreover, the increased torque confers better stability, thereby enhancing precision.Collectively, these enhancements ensure the GP4800 delivers a minimum power reserve of 55 hours. This level of autonomy represents a significant improvement and reflects the Manufacture’s commitment to both technical progress and user convenience. From the barrel to the regulating organ, all parts of the movement have been optimised to deliver performance.
An improved winding system
The Calibre GP4800 incorporates an upgraded winding system and features an oscillating mass mounted on a ball bearing. The ball bearing is set with ceramic balls and equipped with a shock absorber system that reduces winding noise and counters shocks, delivering long-term durability.
The motion of the rotor is transmitted to a ball-bearing clutch system, which winds the mainspring barrel in a unidirectional manner.
Beautiful to behold
The design of the movement is contemporary but includes details inspired by the Maison’s rich heritage. Beneath the skeletonised 18K gold oscillating mass sit three bridges, inspired by the pocket watch of 1867, one of the oldest brand signatures in watchmaking.
With no fewer than ten distinct types of finishing visible on the Calibre GP4800, Girard-Perregaux reaffirms its unwavering commitment to excellence. Craftsmanship encompasses not only what is seen, but also what remains hidden. This meticulous approach reflects a deep respect for traditional Haute Horlogerie, while embracing a contemporary aesthetic.
The rhodium-plated bridges are engraved with golden inscriptions, including the eagle emblem. They are adorned with straight Côtes de Genève engraving, feature diamond-bevelled edges and incorporate mirror-polished screw heads. The visible areas of the mainplate feature a refined sandblasted texture, complemented by the words ‘SILICIUM ESCAPEMENT’ positioned near the balance.
Even the hidden surfaces are not overlooked with circular graining adorning the underside of the mainplate, exemplifying the Maison’s dedication to detail. The oscillating weight incorporates polished arrow-shaped motifs, a tribute to the original bridges of 1867, while a combination of sandblasting, snailing, and traits tirés grace its flanks. Additional elements, such as the sunray-finished ball-bearing clutch, snailed barrel drum and circular satin-finished wheels, further underscore the blend of innovation and heritage.
