In 1791, watchmaker J.F Bautte signed his very first creations and became renowned for his ultra-slim timepieces. Demonstrating great insight and innovation, Bautte established a manufacturing base in which all the elements of the watchmaking craft could be brought together under one roof. Some years later, in 1852, Constant Girard founded Girard & Cie . After marrying Marie Perregaux, Girard founded Girard Perregaux in 1856. By 1906, Girard's son, Constant Girard-Galle, took control of the factory from his father, and later merged his own manufacture with the House of Bautte. Nevertheless, by this stage, Girard Perregaux had already built a reputation as an eminent watchmaker; receiving the prestigious Gold Medal at the Paris Universal Exhibitions in 1867, for their research into, and creation of the triple gold bridge Tourbillon. In other words, for using gold within the movement, of which the brand Girard Perregaux is renowned.
Although initially intended for German Naval Officers, Girard Perregaux developed the first concept for wristwatches from 1880 onwards, in excess of two thousand were produced, and ordered by none other than Kaiser Wilhelm I. The concept of a wristwatch was perceived as implausible within the industry, and it wasn't until the beginning of the next century that the Girard Perregaux wristwatch gained some popularity. Nonetheless, by 1890, the manufacture had become so popular that Girard Perregaux were able to expand their operations, moving into the Japanese, American and South American markets. By 1910, the wristwatch emerged, and Girard Perregaux received considerable recognition industry-wide. By 1930, sales of the Girard Perregaux wristwatch had far exceeded those of the pocket watch.
