First introduced in 1975, the Laureato stands as a cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux's horological heritage. This iconic timepiece has earned recognition for its distinctive aesthetic, proprietary movements, and meticulous craftsmanship. Now, nearly five decades later, comes the Laureato 42 mm Infinite Grey, showcasing the brand's mastery of Grand Feu enamel—a technique that transforms the dial into a work of art.
The centerpiece of this new Laureato is its extraordinary dial, rendered in Grand Feu enamel with subtle grey-blue undertones. This ancient craft, executed within the Sowind Group's facilities, represents one of horology's most challenging decorative techniques. The process begins with a precise blend of silica, minium, potash, and soda, ground to powder, and mixed with metal oxides to achieve the desired color palette.
Each dial undergoes multiple firing cycles at approximately 800°C, with the process repeated five to ten times until the surface achieves its characteristic depth and luminosity. The technique's inherent unpredictability means that not every dial meets the manufacture's exacting standards—those that do emerge as virtually indestructible masterpieces, immune to the effects of time and aging.
Beneath the translucent enamel surface lies a sunray flinqué pattern that amplifies the dial's visual depth while creating a captivating light play. This layered approach gives the timepiece its distinctive character, with the enamel serving as both a protective coating and aesthetic enhancement.
While the dial represents a new chapter, the watch maintains the Laureato's signature design elements. The octagonal bezel sits atop a circular case middle, creating the model's characteristic geometric interplay. The steel case alternates between polished and brushed finishes, adding textural richness to the 42 mm profile.
The integrated bracelet and slim case construction ensure exceptional wrist comfort—a hallmark of the Laureato collection since its inception. Rhodium-plated baton hands indicate hours and minutes, while the central seconds hand features a counterweight inspired by Girard-Perregaux's legendary Gold Bridge, subtly referencing the brand's technical legacy. The date display at 3 o'clock uses white numerals on a color-coordinated disc, maintaining dial harmony.
The Movement
Powering the Laureato 42mm is the GP01800 automatic calibre, developed and assembled entirely at Girard-Perregaux's La Chaux-de-Fonds manufacture. Despite measuring just 3.97mm in height, this self-winding movement delivers a minimum 54-hour power reserve, demonstrating the brand's ability to balance technical performance with elegant proportions.
The movement's finishing exemplifies Girard-Perregaux's commitment to haute horlogerie traditions. The pink gold rotor features circular Côtes de Genève, while the bridges display straight Côtes de Genève patterns. Mirror-polished screws, beveled edges, circular graining on the main plate, and gilded engravings complete the decorative program—techniques that have defined the manufacture's reputation for over two centuries.
The new Laureato 42mm represents more than a simple addition to the collection—it embodies Girard-Perregaux's ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation, where centuries-old craftsmanship meets contemporary design sensibilities.
Sticker Price USD 17,900. More info on Girard-Perregaux here.
