the/gp/chronicles

guest/review: Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges “Earth to Sky” Edition by Luis

I’m very glad to bring to you another guest review by a greatly respected watch collector from Taiwan and well-known social media watch IG’er, luis6_kch!

Read what he has to say about his most recent acquisition into his collection, the Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges “Earth to Sky” Edition. Many thanks Luis for writing this post on my Blog.


I’ve long been a fan of Girard-Perregaux, and I’m particularly impressed by the brand’s decision in recent years to present their famous features with new interpretations. The Neo Bridges, both the original and the “Earth to Sky” versions, are great examples of GP’s efforts.

I won’t go deep into the technical aspect of the Neo Bridges. You can find several nicely written reviews by watch journalists online. What I’d like to share with you here is the genuine first-hand (and maybe unorthodox) thoughts from a real owner of the watch.

This watch is meant to be a conversation piece. Everything looks to be built by not just a watchmaker, but also an architect. During my recent conversation with Mr. Stefano Macaluso, former Product Development Director of GP, I realized that he has a degree in architecture. Now that all make sense to me.

My wife says that the watch reminds her of the faces of “Transformers”. I kind of agree with her. To me, the Neo Bridges must be a member of team Autobot – protecting traditional values with a seemingly modern form that incarnates old souls.

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The back might not look as exciting as the front, but the details are very neatly done and well thought out. To me, the overall layout of the case back resembles a smiley face with a wink 😉.

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And while there are only two bridges (instead of three like those on GP’s iconic La Esmeralda) on the front side, you can find the third bridge on the back. I think GP made the right decision to keep the “full three bridges” for only their high end models. For the medium range products, little twists like what we see on the Neo Bridges actually add fun and surprise.

Under different lighting and angle, the case back may have a darker appearance.

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A bridge & an eagle. Unmistakably GP. The blackened treatment not only enhances the modern and cool look, but also shows well the attention to details.

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The 45mm nominal size might sounds huge, but let’s be honest, the Neo Bridges won’t be your one and only daily watch, so please don’t be put off until you try it on. You might be pleasantly surprised! The watch is actually very wearable, thanks to the short lugs, lightweight titanium case and butterfly deployant clasp. For your reference, my wrist is only 16cm in circumference, but I carry the watch with confidence and pleasure.

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La Chaux-de-Fonds. Since 1791. That pretty much sums up the heritage and pride of Girard-Perregaux.

Sunburst pattern on the micro rotor

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Box sapphire crystal

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The hour markers and the tips of the hands are lumed. Not much, but it’s handy when you need it.

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Extra joy for adjusting the time. You can see the wheels turning.

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Many thanks again to Luis for this wonderful report on his Neo Bridges “Earth to Sky” Edition.

Check also back on my views of the “classic” Neo Bridges.

hands/on: Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges, Ref. 84000

 

 

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