Girard Perregaux Motif Floral

Girard Perregaux has long existed in the shadow of Piaget and Cartier, despite producing watches of equally high craftsmanship and refinement. With the growing interest in unique dress pieces, collectors are finally catching on to what has always been true: GP made some seriously impressive watches, often without the hype tax. The reference 9851 RA is a perfect example—a sleeper hit that delivers vintage charm, artistry, and quality in one elegant package.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the hand-carved floral motif bezel. The engraving flows organically around the case, reminiscent of the delicate carvings found in fine antique furniture. This level of detailing is rare in watchmaking, where bezels tend to be either smooth or geometric. The tonneau-shaped case complements the motif beautifully, adding a sense of fluidity and old-world craftsmanship. While the bezel is full of texture and personality, the dial takes the opposite approach: a clean champagne finish with simple baton markers, creating a perfect balance between intricacy and restraint.

Inside, you’ll find a manually wound Girard Perregaux movement with 17 jewels, reliable and precise, staying true to the brand’s history of producing in-house calibers. The ultra-thin 18K gold case keeps it comfortable on the wrist, a hallmark of refined dress watches from this era. The sapphire crystal ensures durability while maintaining a clear, undistorted view of the dial.

We’ve paired it with a black leather strap featuring a crocodile embossing, chosen specifically to complement the floral bezel patterns. It also comes with a gold-plated GP buckle from the era, tying the piece together with period-correct finishing touches.

For collectors looking to add an elegant yet under-the-radar dress watch to their rotation, this Girard Perregaux offers an incredible value proposition. It’s an example of vintage watchmaking at its most artistic—thoughtful, refined, and quietly distinctive.