The rise of a legend
The 1960s marked a fascinating era not only in terms of new technologies, but also with the emergence of bold shapes, materials, and aesthetics. While the “Space Race” was capturing the world’s imagination and the Concorde was making its very first test flight, Verner Panton Verner Panton launched his iconic chair, molded from a single piece of plastic.
Girard-Perregaux was no exception when it launched the Deep Diver, Reference 9108. Featuring a cushion-shaped case, it integrated the innovative Gyromatic system — a mechanical marvel of its era.
The Deep Diver’s defining characteristics included a 14-facet bezel and a striking red dial, which made it instantly recognizable. Its case design foreshadowed the signature geometry later seen in the iconic Laureato. More than just a diver’s watch, it was a statement piece — bold, technically ambitious, and ahead of its time. Upon release, the Deep Diver quickly gained legendary status.
Now, more than half a century later, this signature piece is reborn.
This forward-thinking spirit is perpetually illustrated with the 1969 Deep Diver, which integrated the Gyromatic system— a bidirectional automatic winding system that significantly enhanced energy efficiency. A technological innovation that also brought additional precision to the movement. Designed to respond intuitively to wrist movements, the mechanism was both robust and refined, embodying the technical mastery of its time.
Today, the legacy of the Deep Diver is reintroduced in a modern reinterpretation that bridges past and present. Its cushion-shaped case draws directly from the 1969 original, while the dial design pays tribute to the bold aesthetic of the 1971 edition. The result is a piece that seamlessly fuses vintage character with contemporary watchmaking expertise.
The dial design pays tribute to the bold aesthetic of the 1971 edition.
Technical mastery, reimagined
With a legacy spanning over 234 years, more than 80 patents, and over 30 movements in its catalogue, Girard-Perregaux has consistently stood at the forefront of Swiss Haute Horlogerie. From pioneering the concept of a watchmaking manufacture in 1791 to unveiling the iconic Tourbillon with Three Bridges in 1867, it has always embraced innovation as a cornerstone of its identity. A Manufacture that has always and constantly conceived, developed, and created its watches in-house.
Bold design, absolute comfort and versatility
The design of the Deep Diver is as captivating as its engineering. It boldly blends pop hues of blue, orange, and white. It features a date window and a rotating inner bezel, adjustable via the crown positioned at 2 o’clock. The hands and markers are coated with a luminous material that glows bright blue in low light. The typography of the numerals is inspired by the retro-futuristic version seen on the original piece.
The cushion-shaped case, made of lightweight Grade 5 titanium, measures 40.30mm by 38.00 mm, offering a perfect balance of elegance and everyday comfort. The crowns at 2 and 4 o’clock, inspired by the original model of the watch, add refinement and symmetry to its design. This play on symmetry recalls the brand’s initial work on cases and bezels. In fact, with the release of the Deep Diver, Girard- Perregaux made a mark on horology with a bezel featuring 14 facets, a true precursor to the shape of the Laureato, introduced in 1975. The dial is also enriched with era-specific Girard-Perregaux branding and subtle Bamford signatures, contributing to an aesthetic that is both authentic and contemporary.
Versatility is lastly a hallmark of the new Deep Diver. Thanks to an integrated quick-release system, the rubber strap can be changed easily and without tools. Each timepiece comes fitted with a blue rubber strap and includes an additional orange strap, offering the wearer a vibrant alternative.
At its core : the GP03300 calibre
Powering this new evolution is the GP03300 calibre — an in-house movement crafted entirely at Girard-Perregaux’s facility in La Chaux-de-Fonds. At just 3.36mm thick and with a power reserve of at least 46 hours, this self- winding movement is a reflection of precision engineering and refined aesthetics. Its oscillating weight is decorated with circular Côtes de Genève, while the bridges feature linear Côtes de Genève, polished bevels, mirror- polished screws, and circular graining. Gilded engravings and meticulous finishing underscore the brand’s uncompromising commitment to excellence. Visible through a blue metalised sapphire crystal caseback, the movement is crowned with a trident emblem — a tribute to Neptune, Roman god of the sea, and a symbol of the Deep Diver’s aquatic heritage.
Legacy Editions
In homage to its rich heritage, Girard- Perregaux has reintroduced some of its most iconic models from the past, blending them with modern materials and craftsmanship. The ‘Legacy Editions’ collection began with the limited edition Casquette, the famous retro-futuristic timepiece originally released in 1976. Now, the new Deep Diver joins this prestigious collection. Limited in number and available for a set period, these timepieces have become highly sought after by collectors and brand lovers. But these aren’t just reissues of past designs — far from it. Every detail has been reimagined, from the aesthetics to the specifications of the movements.
Collaborating closely with the UK-based Bamford Watch Department, Girard-Perregaux has created a timepiece that strikes the perfect balance between heritage and modern appeal, blending practicality with undeniable desirability. Born from tradition, refined through innovation, and reimagined for today, the new Deep Diver stands as a testament to Girard-Perregaux’s enduring spirit of excellence — past, present, and future. Limited to just 350 pieces, the Deep Diver will be available through all Girard- Perregaux retailers worldwide and online at bamfordwatchdepartment.com.
