Why use a traditional balance spring when you can use a silicon blade?
Why apply the classic twisted balance spring when you can use a silicon blade only 14 microns wide and 120 microns thick? With this goal, Girard-Perregaux decided to overcome the main problem of mechanical watches - unstable power delivery. The aim of this 235-year-old Swiss watch brand from La Chaux-de-Fonds is to ensure constant and highly accurate chronometric quality.
To achieve this, an unconventional balance spring in the form of a flexible silicon blade, six times thinner than a human hair, was developed. It accumulates energy and transfers it in a uniform and controlled impulse to the balance, compensating for fluctuations in the tension of the mainspring. We tested the latest Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement model with a 45 mm diameter in a rose gold case and were captivated by the pulsating purple "butterfly" blade of the spring. Did we manage to "catch" it? Read on.
Case and Design of the Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement
The Neo Constant Escapement model (ref. 93510-52-3552-5CX) impresses in many aspects. The rose gold case has an imposing diameter of 45 mm and a thickness of 14.8 mm. The open design with symmetrically placed elements draws attention. The wheels on the top part of the dial create an industrial style, while the two golden bridges at the bottom stand out - a signature GP hallmark that cannot be overlooked. Under these bridges hides the purple "butterfly" blade - an ultra-thin, innovative, and flexible silicon element acting as the balance spring. Seeing the "butterfly" flap its super-thin wings, regulating the mechanism's movement, is an unforgettable sight.
The History of Neo Constant Escapement: From a Train Ticket to a Watch Mechanism
The Constant Escapement technology was first introduced by Girard-Perregaux in 2008. The creation of the silicon blade, directly integrated into the escapement, became possible thanks to collaboration with Sigatec in the 1990s and the development of Deep Reactive Ion Etching (DRIE) technology.
The Constant Escapement L.M. model, released in 2013, was awarded the prestigious Aiguille d'Or at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). The story that inspired the blade idea is well-known: one of the GP watchmakers played with a train ticket, noticing how it bent in a "C" shape and then quickly changed direction - a phenomenon known as "buckling." This observation formed the basis for creating the spring in the movement regulator.
Developing a working escapement with a flexible blade was complex and required many efforts, but the result was worth it. Besides the blade, the Neo Constant Escapement is equipped with a "fifth wheel," connected to the gear train. This wheel transfers energy to two escape wheels with three teeth each, synchronized with a beat frequency of 3 Hz.
The escape wheels alternately transfer energy through a rocking lever to the silicon blade, which, in turn, provides a precise and stable impulse to the balance. The purple silicon blade inside the rose gold case is six times thinner than a human hair and interacts with the lever, regulating the movement.
Microscopic Movement of the "Butterfly" - A Unique Mechanism Feature
The key feature of the system is the deliberate interruption of the energy flow between the mainspring barrel and the escapement. The silicon spring coils with each oscillation of the balance, which at a frequency of 3 Hz occurs six times per second. As a result, the blade pulsates, creating a miniature spectacle comparable to the flutter of a butterfly's wings - or more precisely, a very thin and delicate single-wing flap. Even if the "butterfly" cannot be seen, you can observe how the blade precisely meters the energy transferred to the balance.
The idea of creating a mechanism with constant force proved successful. Regardless of the energy level in the two mainspring barrels, providing an impressive power reserve of up to seven days, the force supplied to the balance remains stable until completely discharged. This ensures constant oscillation amplitude and even movement.
Technical Features and Innovations in the GP09200 Movement
Structurally and technically, the innovative idea works flawlessly. The GP09200 caliber is a proprietary development by Girard-Perregaux, the result of 20 years of research and development. The mechanism is protected by 15 patents, two of which are pending. Before final approval and COSC certification, dozens of silicon springs undergo thorough testing to select the blade with the perfect geometry. This is the key to chronometric success.
Design and Finishing of the Neo Constant Escapement: Combining Tradition and Innovation
Girard-Perregaux paid special attention to high watchmaking in the design of the Neo Constant Escapement. The symmetrical layout of the mechanism attracts the eye and contains many expressive details. The signature golden bridges at the "6 o'clock" position symbolize a high level of watchmaking art. Another interesting element, emphasizing the technical focus, is the linear power reserve indicator located at "9 o'clock."
The new rose gold version features skeletonized hour and minute hands, made of the same metal and coated with black luminescent material with blue glow for improved readability.
Additionally, GP slightly redesigned the bezel and hour markers. The contrasting shades of anthracite and rose gold create an atmosphere of technical luxury. The golden GP logo stands out against the background, highlighting the brand's identity. You won't find similar watches with such a level of innovation and design from other manufacturers.
Conclusion: Did We "Catch the Butterfly" in the Neo Constant Escapement?
Wearing the rose gold Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement, priced at about 140,000 euros ($134,000 USD / £114,000 GBP), is an event in itself. The watch is indeed large and, thanks to the precious alloy, quite heavy. However, this is justified, considering the model's status as a showcase of watchmaking mastery and technical innovations. These watches are not meant for inconspicuous wear - they demand attention and study.
You want to watch the purple "butterfly" flap its wings and admire this spectacle. And you noticed it too, didn't you?