One of the earliest models in the so-called luxury sports watch category, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato was released in 1975 in a rather unusual version - with a quartz movement.
In 1984, these original tonneau-shaped watches began featuring mechanical movements, which became the norm after the watches' return in 2016. This year, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato range, now a traditional collection with numerous variations and colors, has expanded again with two original hues - sage green and ultramarine blue - in luxurious rose gold cases.
The Laureato design was established back in 1975, making it one of the earliest in the luxury sports watch category. While it appeared after the significant Royal Oak model (1972), it precedes three other icons - Patek Nautilus (1976), IWC Ingenieur (1976), and Vacheron 222 (1977). A classic of the genre, the Laureato was built around a shaped case with an integrated bracelet and a raised bezel, adding depth and originality, featuring an octagon set on a round base, which in turn sits on an angular tonneau-shaped case. This signature form was a defining element of the 1975 version and was precisely reproduced in 2016 and 2017 for the revival of this emblematic model.
The cornerstone of the collection, all three new models are based on the 42mm version with automatic time and date selection - note that the 38mm automatic version of the Laureato is also excellent for both men and women. Thus, we have fairly large models, especially considering that 18k rose gold was chosen as the primary material, inevitably increasing the visual presence and weight of the watch on the wrist. Nonetheless, the Laureato elegantly conceals its size thanks to its gracefully curved profile. The case is primarily matte with necessary polished accents to highlight the collection's complex shapes. Sapphire crystals are used on both sides, and the water resistance is 50m - sufficient but not exceptional.
Regardless of the version, all three new 42mm rose gold Laureato variants feature a stamped "clous de Paris" motif on the dial with a satin-finished minute ring. The collection's classic hands and applied markers (gold-plated) have a characteristic arrow shape, and thanks to the movement specific to this 42mm version, the date window is conveniently positioned at the edge of the dial - and even better, the date disc matches the color of the dial.
This year, Girard-Perregaux offers two new options. The first is a "sage green" shade, which may seem unexpected on paper paired with rose gold, but looks quite beautiful in metal. The other option is classic for luxury sports watches: blue. To be precise, GP chose ultramarine blue, a color close to lapis lazuli. It contrasts well with the warm tone of the case.
In any case, these new GPs are equipped with the GP1800 caliber, a refined automatic movement with a 4 Hz frequency and a 54-hour power reserve. The sapphire glass case back showcases beautiful detailing: a rose gold rotor, circular graining on the main plate, beveled bridges with Geneva stripes, and circular stripes on the rotor.
The green and ultramarine blue variants are available on a matching gold bracelet with H-shaped links, featuring matte and polished surfaces. The blue version can also be selected with a blue alligator leather strap with a folding clasp.
The new 42mm Girard-Perregaux Laureato models, part of the permanent collection, are available in retail stores and boutiques for 54,700 euros or 49,700 Swiss francs on a gold bracelet and 37,300 euros or 33,900 Swiss francs on a leather strap. More detailed information can be found on the website www.girard-perregaux.com.