First released in 2019, the Cosmos watch demonstrates the horological prowess of Girard-Perregaux. It contains three exceptional complications and is equipped with technical virtuosity, uncompromising finishing, and artisanal craftsmanship. Now, Girard-Perregaux has chosen to create three unique versions of this model featuring aventurine, obsidian, and onyx. These three models are the final edition of the Cosmos model.
The Cosmos is equipped with three complications, including a tourbillon and a chronograph. The tourbillon is a mechanism designed to counter the adverse influence of gravity on the regulating organ. Presented at the base of the dial, it features a titanium lyre-shaped cage held in position by Girard-Perregaux’s signature Neo Bridge: a contemporary interpretation of Constant-Girard’s famous ‘arrow-shaped’ bridge of the 19th century.
Complementing the tourbillon, the watch is equipped with two additional complications: a terrestrial globe and a celestial globe. The terrestrial globe, located at 3 o’clock, serves as a day/night indicator. Positioned opposite, at 9 o’clock, a celestial globe displays the constellations of the Zodiac. All three unique pieces feature two-part dials, formed of black onyx or black aventurine. Likewise, the globes are made of black onyx or black aventurine. Each set of globes is endued with golden micro-painting performed by hand—a process that takes no less than 14 hours to complete.
The Earth rotates every 24 hours, the time it takes for a terrestrial globe to complete one revolution. Celestial time equals the period of a celestial object’s rotation, namely 23 hours and 56 minutes. Both timepieces are wound by the same movement, ensuring they rotate at the correct speed, demonstrating Girard Perregaux’s unrelenting attention to detail. Unlike in the real world, where light pollution and limited light can hamper viewing constellations on dials of watches, celestial objects are clearly visible on this model’s dial.
The Cosmic Watch has a dial that is arranged with due consideration to symmetry. This creates a balanced and cohesive look. The watch features a winding and setting system on the back, which emulates pocket watches from yesteryear. This unique system includes three engravings that are filled with luminescent ceramic and indicate their purpose.
The Cosmos is equipped with a Calibre GP093020 movement, which is hand-wound and enriched with high-end finishing. Its titanium Neo Bridge is black PVD-treated and sandblasted, adding to the watch’s overall aesthetic. The mainplate is black PVD-treated as well, with circular graining and bevelling for added texture. The tourbillon cage is made of lightweight titanium as well, resulting in a magnificent power reserve of at least 57 hours.
The front of the watch is featured with a sapphire anti-reflective ‘box’, providing a three-dimensional view of the dial area. The domed shape requires four to five times more material to shape and polish.
