In 2024, I first wrote about the Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement watches when the collection was just entering the market.
The Neo Constant Escapement model is an updated version of the original Constant Escapement watches, introduced by the brand in 2013. From a marketing perspective, these watches can be considered ahead of their time. In those years, Girard-Perregaux actively used silicon in their mechanisms, a practice that has only strengthened today thanks to collaboration with Ulysse Nardin - the maker of Freak and in-house silicon components. The new Neo Constant Escapement did not bring significant technical innovations; however, I have not yet covered the rose gold version and the limited edition of two pieces in a "carbon-silicon" case - a special model outside the catalog. I also want to note the lack of information about the Neo Constant Escapement on the official Girard-Perregaux website.
Skeletonization in Watches: When It Is Justified
Overall, my interest in skeletonized watches is gradually waning due to the oversaturation of the market with such models. Skeletonization is justified not just by removing unnecessary elements but when it demonstrates truly impressive technical solutions. The Girard-Perregaux Neo and original Constant Escapement watches are a vivid example of such meaningful skeletonization.
The main highlight of these models is the innovative escapement system, known as "Constant Escapement," made from a single piece of silicon using photolithography. This component not only looks impressive but also surpasses traditional metal counterparts in several respects. This is the kind of detail one wants to see through an open dial. Additionally, it's interesting to photograph: colors change depending on lighting, and under magnification, the finest elements are visible, including the hairspring - a key element of the system's operation.
Technical Features of the GP09200 Manual Winding Caliber
At the heart of the Neo Constant Escapement lies the GP09200 mechanism, developed and manufactured by Girard-Perregaux. Its innovation lies in the method of energy transmission from the mainspring to the mechanism through a constant force regulator. The system uses an ultra-thin blade and double escape wheels, which distribute energy evenly, preventing changes in accuracy throughout the entire seven-day power reserve. Usually, watches with a long power reserve show different accuracy when fully wound and nearly depleted due to differences in torque.
In most regulators, such fluctuations in torque cause acceleration or deceleration of the movement. The constant force system, to which Girard-Perregaux's Constant Escapement belongs, is designed to reduce these variations. Among the many types of constant escapements, this model stands out for its modern design and high performance, achieved through silicon technology and complex computer modeling, which allowed the optimization of the shape and geometry of the components. The GP09200 caliber operates at a frequency of 3 Hz and consists of 266 parts. It displays hours, minutes, seconds, and has a power reserve indicator on the dial.
Lack of Information on the Mechanism on the Official Girard-Perregaux Website
Notably, the brand's official website lacks detailed descriptions of the mechanism and the Constant Escapement system. The Neo Constant Escapement product page contains only a basic description of the watch without explaining the unique technical features. This is surprising, given that the mechanism's development was aimed precisely at improving accuracy and stability. Apart from mentioning the COSC chronometer certification, there is no data indicating that the mechanism is designed with chronometric precision in mind. Such an omission makes it difficult for potential buyers and brand enthusiasts to understand the model's advantages. If the official resource doesn’t provide comprehensive information, where then should one expect reliable knowledge about the product?
History of the Name and Connection with the Brand's Founder
It is worth noting that the term "Constant Escapement" is not just a shortened designation of "constant force escapement." "Constant" is the name of Constant Girard, co-founder of Girard-Perregaux, established in the mid-19th century. This coincidence is quite interesting, but it is difficult for most watch enthusiasts without specialized knowledge to make this connection on their own. The lack of explanations on the brand's website, where users expect to find such information, can be considered a regrettable oversight.
Features of the Case and Materials of the Neo Constant Escapement Models
The first rose gold version of the Constant Escapement appeared in 2014. In the updated Neo version, rose gold returns in a 45 mm case. Despite the impressive diameter, thanks to shortened lugs and rounded proportions, the watch looks and feels smaller than its size suggests. The case is water-resistant up to 30 meters and equipped with sapphire crystals on the front and back. The 18-carat rose gold model looks elegant but not as extravagant as the "carbon-silicon" version - a material that combines carbon and silicon with exotic properties. This version is released in a limited edition of only two pieces and costs more than $100,000 more than the rose gold.
Final Assessment and Positioning of the Girard-Perregaux Models
Currently, the brand undervalues the importance of these models in online presentation. Nevertheless, these are innovative and high-class watches that are suitable for everyday use thanks to the weekly power reserve and focus on accuracy. The Neo Constant Escapement is an example of a niche product, but it deserves attention thanks to its technical features and design. The price of the Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement Pink Gold 93510-52-3552-5CX is about $134,000 USD. The limited edition Neo Constant Escapement Carbon Silicium 93510-41-3094-5CX is priced at 246,000 Swiss francs.
