SIHH 2009: Girard-Perregaux R&D 01 Chronograph Monte Carlo 1983 Watch

At the SIHH 2009 exhibition in Geneva, Swiss watchmaker Girard-Perregaux unveiled a limited edition R&D 01 Chronograph watch, whose sporty detailing and distinctive case design commemorate the Monte-Carlo Rally of 1983--the same year in which Walter Rohrl and co-driver Christian Geistdorfer claimed the first overall position driving a Lancia 037.

The 43mm stainless steel case of the Girard-Perregaux R&D 01 Chronograph Monte Carlo 1983 watch was designed by Luigi Macaluso.  It displays a finely brushed finish that is pleasingly accented by a domed polished bezel; the protected crown at 4 o'clock controls the winding and setting of the watch.  Located between the inverted chronograph pushers on the left side of the case is a secondary crown that governs the operation of an internal rotating bezel.  Accents of blue and red enliven the technically detailed black dial, with its four silver subdials, and bold Arabic hour markers and sword shaped hands applied with luminous material. To enhance the legibility of the chronograph complication, elapsed chronograph minutes are indicated via a large central hand with a blue arrow tip.  Subdials at 3 and 6 o'clock indicate the day/night scale and the date, respectively.  A discreet "Monte-Carlo 1983" inscription atop the date pays homage to a respected achievement in the world of automobile racing.

Animating the R&D 01 Chronograph Monte Carlo 1983 watch is the self-winding GP033C0 caliber, a movement designed and manufactured by Girard-Perregaux.  Frequency of the smooth balance is 28,800 vibrations per hour, enabling the chronograph to record independent intervals of elapsed time with 1/8th second precision. Power reserve is 46 hours.  Six screws secure the caseback, which features a sapphire crystal exhibition window.  Circular graining, Cotes de Geneve, and chamfered edges are among the traditional finishing which impart beauty to the refined Girard-Perregaux caliber.  

250 individually numbered examples of the Girard-Perregaux R&D 01 Chronograph Monte Carlo 1983 watch will be produced, each being accompanied by a special case bearing the symbol of the "Automobile Club de Monaco".  Water resistance of the model is 50 meters, and the alligator leather straps are fitted with a stainless steel deployant buckle.