Since its debut in 2019, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute collection has been a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological design. The latest addition to this remarkable collection, the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech – revealed during the Geneva Watch Days event – showcases the brand’s accumulated expertise and innovative spirit. This timepiece not only exemplifies Girard-Perregaux‘s mastery in utilizing cutting-edge materials but also pays homage to the brand’s legacy of inventive watchmaking.
Back in 1975, the inaugural Laureato watch captured the essence of the 70s horological trends. It emerged during a period when quartz movements were reshaping the industry, prompting questions about the relevance of mechanical watches. Girard-Perregaux, always at the forefront of innovation, played a pivotal role in the development of quartz technology, establishing the 32,768 Hz frequency as the universal standard. While the mechanical watch experienced a renaissance, the Laureato retained its unique position by being the first integrated bracelet watch with an in-house design and movement.
The Laureato Absolute collection reimagines the 1975 classic with a modern twist. It embraces avant-garde design and sports-oriented aesthetics, giving each watch in the collection a distinctly bold and robust appearance. Girard-Perregaux’s commitment to innovation is evident in its use of groundbreaking materials, including metalized sapphire crystal, carbon glass, and rubber alloy.
Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech is a testament to high-performance materials and pioneering techniques. Its case is crafted using the revolutionary 8Tech method, which involves forming the case from octagonal carbon parts. This process creates a unique and random structural pattern, highlighting the brand’s ability to transform avant-garde materials into captivating designs.
The 44mm Laureato Absolute 8Tech is incredibly light yet substantial on the wrist, thanks to its carbon/titanium composite construction. The case material comprises layers of unidirectional carbon fibers and lightweight titanium powder, forming thin layers that are meticulously stacked, cut into octagons, and subjected to heat and pressure. This innovative approach results in a shimmering appearance.
The dial of the Laureato Absolute 8Tech showcases a sandwich-type construction, blending sandblasted surfaces with Grade 5 titanium. The grey gradient finish echoes the tones of the case and bezel, while arrow-tipped apertures serve as indexes and luminescent-treated rectangular markings provide legibility in low-light conditions. The chronograph features three sandblasted counters and a date display, all contributing to a contemporary and visually striking dial.
The chronograph is powered by the self-winding Calibre GP03300-1058, an in-house movement that upholds Girard-Perregaux’s legacy of craftsmanship. With 419 components and impeccable finishing, including Côtes de Genève, chamfering, and straight graining, the movement pays homage to the brand’s heritage while embracing modern technology.
Completing the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech is a black rubber strap with a fabric-effect look and grey stitching. The integrated strap design ensures optimal wearer comfort, further accentuated by the folding titanium buckle with black PVD treatment. This buckle features a micro-adjustment system, allowing for a customized fit.
The Laureato Absolute 8Tech is set to make its global debut in October 2023 at authorized Girard-Perregaux retailers, with a retail price of USD 27,300.
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