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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Quartz wristwatch

Swatch 'Girotondo' Wristwatch

Partially verified

This quartz wristwatch, known as the 'Girotondo' model (reference GG 129), was produced by Swatch SA in Switzerland in 1994. It is part of the spring/summer 1994 collection. The watch features a quartz movement housed within a green-tinted transparent acrylic case. Its design is characterized by a clear plastic strap decorated with a multicolored pattern of figures, which is echoed on the watch face. The timepiece measures 23 cm in length and 3.5 cm in width. This watch was acquired by the museum as part of a larger selection of 91 Swatch timepieces representing the brand's production during this period. The rear of the case bears specific identification stamps, including 'S 407' and '6103'.

Front view of the Swatch 'Girotondo' wristwatch, featuring a green-tinted transparent case and multicolored figure motifs.
Front view of the Swatch 'Girotondo' wristwatch, featuring a green-tinted transparent case and multicolored figure motifs. — Museums Victoria. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
collections.museumsvictoria.com.au
Category
Wristwatch · Quartz wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Swatch SA
Reference
GG 129
Catalogue / lot identifier
ST 42050
Source-reported date
1994
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
S 407 6103

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Design

The Swatch 'Girotondo' is constructed with a circular, green-tinted translucent acrylic case. The aesthetic relies heavily on the integration of the strap and dial design, which features a continuous pattern of multicolored stylized figures. The clear plastic strap extends from the case lugs and is secured with a matching blue-tinted plastic buckle, accompanied by a solid-colored pink strap keeper.

The dial surface continues the figure-based motif found on the strap, visible through the clear case front. The hour, minute, and second hands are contrastingly colored, adding to the decorative nature of the timepiece.

Evidence for this section
  • “Black acrylic case, clear plastic strap with pattern of figures predominately pink, face similar.”

Movement and Identification

The movement is accessible via the case back, which incorporates a removable battery cover for maintenance. The case back also serves as the primary location for manufacturing and model identification stamps.

The object is identifiable by the specific sequence 'S 407' and '6103' stamped directly into the case material on the reverse side. These markings, along with the model reference 'GG 129', differentiate this unit from others within the 1994 collection. The piece is part of a broader institutional acquisition of 91 similar watches.

Evidence for this section
  • “Quartz movement.”
  • “Rear of case stamped 'S 407' & '6103'.”

Provenance and Context

This watch was acquired as part of a collection of 91 Swatch watches representing the spring and summer 1994 product releases. The acquisition reflects the museum's interest in documenting the production and design history of Swatch SA. According to institutional records, the company originated in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, as an effort to sustain domestic watchmaking through affordable design.

The 'Girotondo' model represents the brand's production strategy during the 1990s, where designs were intended to be accessible and reflective of contemporary life.

Evidence for this section
  • “One of 91 Swatch watches purchased from the Swatch spring/summer 1994 collection.”
  • “In plastic box with warranty & instructions.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific material composition of the 'clear plastic' strap to ensure proper conservation?
  • How do the case back numbers 'S 407' and '6103' correlate to specific production batches or dates within 1994?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Swatch 'Girotondo' Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerSwatch SA“Swatch SA”
Model NameGirotondo“'Girotondo'”
ReferenceGG 129“GG 129”
Registration NumberST 42050“Registration number: ST 42050”
Dimensions23 cm x 3.5 cm x 0.8 cm“23 cm (Length), 3.5 cm (Width), 0.8 cm (Height)”
Case InscriptionsS 407 and 6103“Rear of case stamped 'S 407' & '6103'.”

Visible details

  • Transparent green-tinted circular case
  • Multicolored figure motifs on strap and dial
  • Integrated pin buckle
  • Battery compartment visible on case back

Research qualifications

  • The exact functional status of the quartz movement is not detailed by the source
  • While identified as a 'gents' watch by the source, dimensions are consistent with standard Swatch sizing for the period

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Wrist Watch - Swatch, 'Girotondo', Switzerland, 1994

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 3b7e847246

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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