The Cat’s Eye in wonderland
Press Release – SIHH 2018
The Cat’s Eye in wonderland
Girard-Perregaux predestines enchanting version of the Cat’s Eye Day and Night to a charmed life by transforming it for the very first time into a High Jewellery interpretation. Above and beyond the metamorphosis highlighting the fairytale sparkle of diamonds, this new creation tells its very own story.
Once upon a time, there was a watch, developed in keeping with the finest watchmaking traditions, which propelled the woman wearing it into a maze of spectacular beauty. How can she find her way? Girard-Perregaux offers the key!
Entre sky and earth
The same script inevitably plays out, over and over. As soon as the Cat’s Eye Day and Night enters a woman’s field of vision, her gaze is irresistibly drawn to its dark blue aventurine dial stretching like an endless sky. Its powerful allure stems from the depth and intensity of its colour, lit up only by a shower of gold spangles. The eye literally plunges into it, followed by the mind that discovers gemstone scenery of exquisite splendour. A fringe of multi-sized diamonds frames the crown, accentuating the legendary shape of this collection: a circle nested in an oval, the very embodiment of absolute, deeply appealing femininity. Pushing the boundaries of optical illusion, the bezel is set with a ring of imposing diamonds that spill over onto the lugs. They give a sense of volume to this model, creating an alternately raised and hollowed profile that begs to be caressed, forming a precious landscape around the sky portrayed on the dial. The stones are held by prongs that ensure their stability while also flaunting each and every facet. The light effects are magnified and usual points of reference vanish. Where am I? Is it a waking dream?
A benevolent complication
On this dreamily romantic creation that stirs the imagination, the return to a gentle and pleasing reality is achieved via the Day/Night complication. The latter epitomises the extremely specific approach of the Maison, which deliberately pairs substantive horological content with original design. The white gold disc at 6 o’clock performs a complete rotation in 24 hours. It has been treated to several finishing operations, vividly reflecting the concern for details nurtured by Girard-Perregaux. Its figurative depiction of the day and night is imbued with a sense of refinement: a generous, shining sun on one side; and a dainty moon on the other, alternately appearing or hiding beneath a half-circle of diamonds as the hours go by. This astronomical complication requires no independent adjustment, as the Manufacture has chosen to synchronise it with the hours and minutes.
Inner strength
In addition to its stirring aesthetic appeal, this stunning High Jewellery model is driven by a mechanical self-winding GP330-00900 movement, designed, developed and produced by Manufacture Girard-Perregaux in accordance with the finest Swiss watchmaking traditions. This 218-part movement with its 46-hour power reserve is also distinguished by its splendid finishing. The bridges and the mainplate are straight-grained on the sides and on the rounded parts of the ridges. They are then chamfered, circular-grained and adorned with a Côtes de Genève pattern, while the gold oscillating weight is graced with a “GP” tapestry motif. The transparent case-back provides a chance to admire the meticulous craftsmanship that enhances the power of this exceptional model.
The Cat’s Eye Day and Night High Jewellery is fitted with a dark blue alligator leather strap and a white gold folding clasp set with brilliant-cut diamonds.