Girard-Perregaux has an illustrious past as a movement manufacturer, and this week, the brand is looking to write the next chapter of that journey with the release of the new caliber GP4800. The new caliber will power the coming generations of Girard-Perregaux creations, likely beginning in base form, and building from there. There are a host of modern bells and whistles that come with the new caliber, making it a fitting new piece to the brand’s manufacture quiver and a robust option for their sport watch collections and beyond.
The caliber GP4800 is a comprehensive new design that spans 25.60mm in diameter by 4.28mm in thickness. It’s built to serve as a host for future complications as well as make for a compelling option in its base form. At a glance, there’s a host of visual changes to the bridge shape (now symmetrical) and architecture, all framing a new full balance bridge hosting a variable inertia balance, and a silicium escapement (which is handily labeled on the mainplate underneath).
There are changes on the other end of the train as well, with a redesigned barrel and a new winding system. However, the 55 hours of reserve doesn’t sound overly impressive, and the ceramic ball bearings present a potential headache for future servicing that may be done by an independent watchmaker. Further, these additions will likely have an impact on pricing. That said, this movement does bring the manufacture up to modern expectations when it comes to luxury brands.
As for what watch or watches will be the first to welcome this new movement, that question remains unanswered, though I suspect it won’t be long before we find out. I’d also point out that this year is the 50th anniversary of the Laureato, the brand’s emblematic sport watch. Until then, learn more at Girard-Perregaux.