Introducing Girard-Perregaux New Neo Constant Escapement

Girard-Perregaux, one of Switzerland's oldest watchmaking Manufactures, continues to push the boundaries of horology with the introduction of the “Neo Constant Escapement”. This latest creation represents a seamless blend of innovation and tradition. The "Constant" name was chosen not only for its functionality but also as a tribute to the brand's founder, Constant Girard-Perregaux, showcasing the brand's commitment to both technological advancements and its rich heritage.

Constant Girard created highly precise pocket watches equipped with tourbillon escapements In the 19th century. His dedication led to numerous awards, including a gold medal at the Universal Exhibition in Paris. He transformed functional bridges into artistic elements, setting the stage for the iconic three bridges design.

In 2008, Girard-Perregaux introduced a concept watch featuring the innovative silicium blade. This technology underwent refinement over time, resulting in the release of the Constant Escapement L.M., a timepiece that received the 'Aiguille D'Or' at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in 2013.

The concept of the silicon blade originated during a train journey, where an innovative watchmaker, while holding a train ticket between his fingers, noticed that when the ticket was flexed, it took on a 'C' shape and became unstable. Applying lateral pressure caused the ticket to store energy uniformly until it reached a point of instability, at which it snapped back, creating an inverted 'C' shape. This transition from compression to bending is the core principle of the Constant Escapement.

This year, Girard-Perregaux introduces the Neo Constant Escapement, an evolution of this technology, while ensuring the constant force remains unchanged with a ‘fifth wheel’ connected to the gear train. The fifth wheel transfers energy to two escape wheels, each fitted with three teeth, matching the frequency of the movement (3Hz).These wheels provide a larger force, which is transferred to the buckled blade through new rocking levers. These modifications aim to eliminate sliding frictions that were present in the previous escapement wheels. 

Housed within a grade 5 titanium case with polished and satin finished surfaces, measuring 45 mm in diameter, and 14.8 mm in thickness.The watch's lugs, curving sharply downward, create an optical illusion that makes the watch appear smaller on the wrist than its stated dimensions would imply,. topped by a box sapphire crystal that showcases the complicated skeletonized dial. In 2013, the Constant L.M. had an off-center sub-dial for hours and minutes. In contrast, the Neo Constant Escapement features hands at the center of the dial. These hands are skeletonized dauphine-style, treated with rhodium for enhanced visibility. The dial has a black track with white markings and prominent luminescent hour markers that appear to float. Additionally, it includes a central sweep seconds hand with a sky-blue tip and arrow-shaped counterweight.

The upper half of the dial houses two large barrels. The movement is adorned in black PVD and anthracite NAC,and a power reserve indicator at 9 o'clock showcasing the energy stored in the twin barrels, providing a minimum 7-day power reserve. The escape wheels are upheld by two separate black bridges, secured by shiny screws. These bridges draw inspiration from 19th-century designs but are executed in a modern style. 

Visible through the sapphire caseback, mirrorring the symmetrical design of the dial. It showcases the hand-wound Caliber GP09200 with twin barrels at the top and two Neo Bridges at the base.This certified chronometer by COSC, harnesses the elastic and bistable properties of silicon. 

A fabric rubber strap comes with the Neo Constant Escapement, fastened with a titanium triple folding buckle featuring micro-adjustment. The watch is not limited, but production is limited by the complexity of the product, and it is priced at USD 99,600, which is equivalent to AED 366,000.

For more information please visit Girard-Perregaux official website.