Girard-Perregaux Chessboard Dial

Girard-Perregaux Chessboard Dial Ref. 8619F | 18k Yellow Gold | NOS | 1970s

Description

This Girard-Perregaux Ref. 8619F is a rare and beautifully preserved example of GP’s design-forward work from the 1970s. Elegant, restrained, and quietly unusual, it’s the kind of watch collectors notice only after they’ve seen enough standard fare.

The dial is the defining feature. The central chessboard pattern is executed in two-tone gold and champagne, creating contrast through texture and finish rather than color alone. It’s subtle, refined, and unmistakably intentional. Framing the dial are decorative mother-of-pearl strips along the sides, adding a soft iridescent accent that elevates the design without overwhelming it. The result is a dial that feels architectural, almost jewel-like, yet still very much a dress watch.

The rectangular case is solid 18k yellow gold and measures 26 × 32 mm. On the wrist, it wears larger than the numbers suggest thanks to its vertical proportions and clean geometry. Inside is a manual-wind Swiss movement, keeping the profile slim and the experience tactile.

What truly sets this example apart is its condition. This is an unused NOS piece from the 1970s, complete with its original strap, original buckle, and original tags. Watches like this were meant to be worn, and most were. Finding one preserved in this state is genuinely rare.

Specifications

• Brand: Girard-Perregaux
• Model: Dress Watch
• Reference: 8619F
• Year: Circa 1970s
• Movement: Manual wind
• Case Material: Solid 18k yellow gold
• Case Dimensions: 26 × 32 mm
• Case Shape: Rectangular
• Dial: Two-tone gold and champagne chessboard center with mother-of-pearl side strips
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Strap: Original leather strap
• Buckle: Original Girard-Perregaux buckle
• Condition: Unused NOS, with original tags
• Water Resistance: Not guaranteed due to age

Condition Report

• Dial: Exceptional condition. Chessboard dial is crisp and clean, with intact MOP side strips and no visible damage.
• Case: Solid 18k yellow gold case in unused condition with sharp edges and no visible wear.
• Crystal: Acrylic crystal clear and clean.
• Movement: Manual-wind movement functioning correctly and keeping steady time.
• Strap and Buckle: Original strap and buckle present, unused, with original tags intact.

Historical Significance

In the 1970s, Girard-Perregaux produced a number of highly refined dress watches that emphasized dial craftsmanship and precious materials over bold branding. Chessboard-style dials were never mass-produced and were reserved for more design-led references. Executed here in two-tone gold and champagne, framed by mother-of-pearl accents, and housed in solid gold, the Ref. 8619F stands as a strong example of that philosophy. NOS examples with original tags are exceedingly rare and appeal to collectors who prioritize originality, condition, and subtle design complexity.