Overview
Since Jean-François Bautte’s first timepiece in 1791, Girard-Perregaux has distinguished itself as an independent watchmaker with production standards that rival the very best of Switzerland. Balancing tradition with restless innovation, the manufacture has pioneered numerous landmark designs, including the first high-frequency mechanical movement in 1965 and the standard-setting 32,768 Hz quartz movement in 1971. Today, the brand is celebrated for this intellectual approach, often favoring artisanal finishing and mechanical integrity over mass-market appeal.
The reference 9012 emerged during the 1990s when Girard-Perregaux was combining high-complication movements with the Art Deco-inspired designs of their Vintage 1945 and Richeville collections. This particular model features a cushion-shaped case that houses a modified movement with a rattrapante (split seconds) complication — one of the most difficult horological feats to engineer. Girard-Perregaux offered the 9012 in several configurations, including stainless steel, yellow gold, white gold, and pink gold, often paired with elegant dials ranging from classic cream and silver to black.
Regardless of the variation, the 9012 is immediately recognizable by its harmonious layout and the specialized coaxial pusher integrated directly into the crown, allowing the wearer to time two simultaneous events with a satisfying level of engagement. The weight of the beautifully faceted yellow gold case offered here is particularly prominent, underscoring the mechanical gravity inside. Compared to more ubiquitous modern chronographs, the 9012 remains a compelling alternative to those seeking a perfect balance of wrist presence, technical mastery, and classical design restraint.
Specifications
Brand:
Girard-Perregaux
Model:
Split Seconds Chronograph
Reference:
9012
Year:
1990s
Case Number:
OJ No.30
Case Material:
Yellow gold
Diameter:
38 mm
Lug Width:
21 mm
Thickness:
14.6 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
49.2 mm
Dial:
Cream
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Automatic
Caliber:
GP 8298
Bracelet/Strap:
Girard-Perregaux brown alligator strap with signed tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The yellow gold case shows normal wear with a few hairlines, light scuffs,and tiny nicks present. The faceted case edges are strong and the lugs are thick and well defined. The caseback is consistent with the rest of the watch, and shows light oxidation around the backs of the lugs. The brand, reference,and serial engravings remain sharp and legible.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The cream dial and polished sword hands are in excellent condition with some micro patina visible under a loupe but no notable imperfections. The sapphire crystal is squeaky clean and scratch-free.
Bracelet/Strap: The Girard-Perregaux alligator strap shows light wear with plenty of life left to give. The condition of the yellow gold buckle is consistent with the rest of the case. The GP engraving remains crisp and detailed.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, and split second chronograph start/stop/reset are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
