Girard-Perregaux watches, known for their elegance and precision, often feature sophisticated mechanical or quartz movements. The GP 354 is a well-regarded quartz movement, but swapping it for an ETA quartz movement can be an appealing option if you need a more accessible or cost-efficient solution for maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing the Girard-Perregaux 354 movement with an ETA quartz movement, highlighting the required tools, techniques, and important considerations.
1. Understanding the GP 354 and ETA Quartz Movements
The Girard-Perregaux 354 is a high-end quartz movement, appreciated for its reliability and sleek design. However, replacement parts for older or rare GP movements may be difficult to find or prohibitively expensive. ETA, a Swiss movement manufacturer, offers a wide range of quartz movements that are known for their precision and availability, making them an excellent alternative.
2. Tools and Materials Needed
To successfully swap the movements, you’ll need the following:
- Watch case opener
- Screwdrivers (watchmaking set)
- Tweezers
- Movement holder
- Dust blower
- Finger cots (to prevent oils from skin transferring)
- Dial feet adhesive or adapter (if needed)
- ETA quartz movement (compatible model)
- Case-back gasket (optional, for water resistance)
- Watch hand remover and press tool
3. Choosing the Right ETA Quartz Movement
ETA offers a variety of quartz movements, so selecting one with the same diameter, thickness, and hand-fitting dimensions as the GP 354 is crucial. Some of the popular ETA quartz movements include:
- ETA 955.112: Known for its slim profile and reliability.
- ETA 902.101: Compact and suitable for smaller cases.
- ETA 805.112: A popular workhorse movement for general-purpose watches.
Make sure to compare the size, battery type, and functions (e.g., date display) of the new movement with the original GP 354 to avoid compatibility issues.
4. Disassembling the Girard-Perregaux Watch
Carefully disassembling the watch without damaging the delicate components is crucial. Follow these steps:
- Remove the bracelet or strap to avoid damage during the process.
- Open the case-back using a case opener, turning it counterclockwise.
- Gently release the crown stem by locating the small release lever near the movement’s stem entry.
- Place the watch face down on a movement holder to keep it stable.
5. Removing the GP 354 Movement
- Use tweezers and screwdrivers to unscrew any movement retaining screws.
- Lift the movement carefully from the case using tweezers.
- Check the condition of the dial feet; if they’re intact, you can reuse the dial.
- If the original hands are compatible, store them safely to reuse later.
6. Installing the ETA Movement
- Prepare the new ETA movement by ensuring the crown and stem are properly inserted.
- If the dial feet don’t align with the new movement, use dial adapters or dial adhesive to secure the dial.
- Attach the hands using a press tool, ensuring they align perfectly for proper timekeeping.
7. Testing and Adjustments
Before fully reassembling the watch:
- Insert a battery into the new movement and check if it starts running.
- Test the hands for proper clearance, ensuring they don’t touch each other or the dial.
- Use the crown to confirm smooth adjustment of the time and date functions.
8. Reassembling the Watch
- Secure the movement inside the case with screws or a movement ring, if needed.
- Reinsert the crown stem gently, ensuring it clicks into place.
- Close the case-back securely and replace the gasket to maintain water resistance (if applicable).
9. Final Checks and Troubleshooting
- Test the watch functions again to ensure the time and date adjustments work properly.
- Check for any loose hands or dial misalignment.
- If the watch doesn’t run, double-check the battery polarity and the crown stem’s seating.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I reuse the original crown with the ETA movement?
In many cases, you can reuse the original crown, but you might need to shorten or modify the stem to fit the new movement properly.
2. Will the ETA movement affect the value of my Girard-Perregaux watch?
Yes, swapping the original movement may reduce the watch’s value to collectors. However, if the original movement is non-functional, the swap can restore usability without affecting its day-to-day value.
3. Do I need a professional to perform the swap?
While experienced watch enthusiasts can perform this swap, seeking professional help is recommended if you’re unfamiliar with watch movements to avoid damaging your timepiece.
Conclusion
Swapping a Girard-Perregaux 354 movement with an ETA quartz movement is a practical solution if you want to restore functionality while avoiding the high costs of rare GP parts. With the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, this swap can breathe new life into your timepiece. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist or a first-timer, following this guide ensures a smooth transition, making your beloved watch tick once again!
