For centuries, watchmakers had been fascinated by the prospect of winding a watch’s mainspring automatically. In 1957, Girard-Perregaux produced a revolutionary solution with its "Gyromatic" watch.
One of the major challenges associated with automatic winding is how to turn the circular to-and-fro movement of the oscillating mass into the one-way circular motion that can actually wind the mainspring. Horological engineers usually resort to a device called a motion reverser, featuring ratcheted wheels. However, the stronger the pawls and teeth, the larger they are, leading to an increase in idle travel. The remedy lies in using smaller, hence more fragile, components. The only solution here is a never quite satisfactory compromise.
Girard-Perregaux's patented "Gyromatic" system substitues roller-equipped unidirectional clutches for the ratchet wheels. The resulting construction is simple, reliable and efficient and its compactness opens the way for slim, sleek and stylish designs. The "Gyromatic" has since demonstrated its excellence in tousands of Girard-Perreaux timepieces including the top-of-the-line "Gyromatic HF" (for high frequency). In 1966, the Neuchâtel Observatory’s Centenary Prize acknowledged Girard-Perregaux’s superior ability. The next year, 73% of all rating certificates were attributed to Girard-Perregaux high frequency watches, a tribute to their extreme degree of precision.
On the occasion of its 225th anniversary, Girard-Perregaux wanted to celebrates its iconic timepiece. The 1957, with its crystal glass box, champagne dial with a vintage effect, dauphine hands with luminescent material and applied indexes recalls Girard-Perregaux’s heritage.
The watch comes in a 40mm stainless steel case with polished upper and brushed sides. The sapphire crystal of the case back shows off the in-house automatic movement GP03300 offering a 46-hour power reserve and beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour. Its traditional finishes hark back to the decoration used in the 1970s, with “Côtes de Genève" and circular graining decorations on the main plate & oscillating weight.
A black alligator strap with stitches complements the timepiece.
