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In the pantheon of great Swiss watchmaking, there are a handful of names that command a special kind of reverence. These are the true manufactures, the historic houses of haute horlogerie with centuries of uninterrupted innovation and artistry. Girard-Perregaux, with a history stretching back to 1791, is without question one of those names. While they are famed for creating some of the most breathtakingly complex and beautiful timepieces ever made, they also possess a mastery of the simple, elegant dress watch, and this stunning Reference 4797 is a perfect example.
The 1980s and 90s saw a return to a kind of neo-classical purity in watch design, a move away from the funky excesses of the 70s towards timeless, traditional aesthetics. This was an era where a brand’s heritage and mastery of classic forms came to the forefront, and Girard-Perregaux excelled. They produced watches like this Reference 4797, timepieces that were not about fleeting trends, but about enduring, unimpeachable elegance and quality.
This particular example is a masterclass in sophisticated restraint. The design is pure, classic, and perfectly executed. A svelte stainless steel case provides a cool, durable foundation, which is then elevated by a warm, substantial bezel and crown crafted from solid 18-karat gold. This subtle two-tone execution is incredibly versatile and luxurious. The crisp white dial is a picture of classical purity, featuring sharp, black printed Roman numerals and delicate, gilt “feuille” or leaf-style hands. A cleanly integrated date window at 3 o’clock adds a touch of modern practicality to the otherwise timeless design.
