Girard-Perregaux introduce the Neo Constant Escapement

While Girard-Perregaux has been making noise lately with its Laureato line, the venerable maker is today flexing its expertise in boundary-bending horology, in the form of the Neo Constant Escapement.

Girard-Perregaux made waves back in 2013 when they introduced the Constant Escapement L.M., featuring a revolutionary constant force escapement mechanism that earned them the prestigious ‘Aiguille D’Or’ at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) in the same year. As a quick recap, a constant force mechanism is one where the power is released from the barrel at a regular rate (typically a mainspring unwinds with uneven force). In theory, constant force equals better timekeeping. And while not the only Constant Force mechanism around, Girard-Perregaux’s 2013 debut was a significant one, featuring a silicium blade, enabling a linear supply of force to the balance, ensuring extraordinary rate stability.

The Neo Constant Escapement represents the next step in this journey, showcasing a blend of avant-garde aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. The design pays homage to Constant Girard’s 1867 pocket watch, which transformed the concept of bridges into artistic elements. This philosophy is now embodied in the Neo Constant Escapement.

Building on the success of the Constant Escapement L.M., Girard-Perregaux has taken the concept of constant force to new heights. This latest timepiece incorporates 30% more patents and 14 fewer components than its predecessor, emphasizing optimization over complexity, still with the innovative constant force mechanism at the heart of the watch.

The Neo Constant Escapement includes a unique escapement mechanism based on a buckling silicium blade, created using advanced ‘photolithography’ techniques. The ultra-fine silicium blade, a mere 14 microns wide, delivers a uniform pulse of energy to the balance. The watch boasts a power reserve of at least 7 days thanks to its twin barrels, all housed in a 45mm Grade 5 titanium case. The watch’s dial showcases skeletonized dauphine-style hour and minute hands with luminescent elements withluminescent hour markers on the outer flange. With its fabric-effect rubber strap and titanium folding buckle with micro-adjustment, the Neo Constant Escapement offers not only precision but also exceptional comfort for the wearer.

The Neo Constant Escapement is a testament to Girard-Perregaux’s unyielding commitment to horological excellence, a fusion of art and innovation that propels the brand into the future while paying homage to its storied past.