Girard-Perregaux Tri-Axial Tourbillon Ref. 99815-53-1612BA6F Review

Girard-Perregaux has always had a special relationship with the mighty tourbillon. Long before the Laureato became the brand’s most recognizable modern watch, GP was known for turning movement architecture into something beautiful, most famously with its Tourbillon with Three Gold Bridges. The Tri-Axial Tourbillon takes that same spirit and pushes it in a far more modern, sporty, and dramatic direction. 

This isn’t a quiet watch, and it isn’t meant to be. The ref. 99815-53-1612BA6F is housed in a 48mm 18K white gold case, giving the movement the room it needs to become the main event. At the center of the experience is the tri-axial tourbillon, a highly complex construction that rotates through three different planes. Rather than simply appearing as a small animated detail on the dial, it becomes a miniature mechanical sculpture in full, constant motion. 

A rare piece of modern Girard-Perregaux haute horlogerie 

The dial layout makes the most of that spectacle. The time display is kept separate and legible, while the openworked architecture draws attention back to the movement. The black dial treatment gives the watch a technical, contemporary feel, and the domed sapphire section allows the tourbillon to be appreciated from multiple angles. It’s a watch designed around depth, motion, and more than just a smidge of mechanical theater. 

The time subdial and power reserve indicator are similar in size to the tri-axial tourbillon, so each element is given real presence on the dial rather than feeling squeezed in. Turn the watch over, and the exhibition caseback continues that sense of depth, with a mix of finishes and a not-so-subtle nod to the brand’s signature gold bridges. 

Inside is the manually wound GP09300-0002 caliber, offering a 60-hour power reserve. This example is part of an extremely small five-piece edition, making it rare even by grand complication standards. It is offered in like-new condition and comes as a full set with box and papers, which is especially important for a watch this special. 

For collectors who know Girard-Perregaux beyond the Laureato, this is a serious reminder of what the manufacture can do. It’s bold, technically ambitious, and unmistakably GP.