After an intense 24-hour endurance race spanning 3,988 kilometers, Laurent Ferrier, François Servanin, and François Trisconi secured third place overall in the storied Le Mans competition. This pivotal moment on June 10, 1979, would become the cornerstone upon which their future company would be built decades later.
Commemorating Laurent Ferrier’s 15th anniversary, the new Sport Auto 79 celebrates the defining achievement of the moment of quiet triumph when its founders finished third place at the Le Mans race in 1979. That 1979 podium finish, earning third place in the overall standings, would forever shape the destiny of its two founders and launch their horological journey.
This commemorative edition features an entirely 5N red gold construction, encompassing both case and bracelet. The warm, lustrous metal creates a striking contrast against the cream-colored dial, whose opaline finish lends a subtle, powdery texture that mirrors the refined character of the two founders.
The cream-colored dial showcases an opaline finish achieved through galvanic treatment, creating a distinctive powdery texture with rose-silver undertones. This refined surface embodies the modesty and grace characteristic of the brand's founders—two former racing drivers who approached their remarkable third-place finish in 1979 with quiet dignity.
In striking contrast to this subtle dial, the timepiece is crafted entirely in 5N red gold, encompassing both case and integrated bracelet. The flowing, interwoven curves of its design capture every memorable detail of that legendary race. The precious metal's inherent nobility reflects the true treasure claimed that day—the courage to embark on an extraordinary lifelong journey.
The 5N red gold indexes and hands are enhanced with white SuperLumiNova, while a snailed small-seconds subdial at 6 o'clock features powder grey markers. True to the Laurent Ferrier tradition, legibility remains paramount, optimized through a powder grey minute track that coordinates with the logo and central cross. A gracefully beveled date window at 3 o'clock is accentuated by a delicate matching transfer. The "Sport Auto" inscription appears as a subtle tone-on-tone transfer positioned between the central hands and small seconds.
Drawing inspiration from racing car aerodynamics, the new Laurent Ferrier Sport Auto 79 showcases an artful balance of rounded curves and flowing lines. The 41.5 mm 5N red gold case features an integrated bracelet in matching material. Built upon a tonneau-shaped case middle with rounded contours, Laurent Ferrier has elegantly layered a softly shaped bezel reminiscent of the Square model's cushion silhouette.
Each case section receives distinct finishing treatments. The bezel displays circular satin-brushing highlighted by mirror-polished sides, contrasting with the case's middle's vertical satin-brushed finish. The three-link bracelet continues this alternating philosophy, combining vertically satin-brushed surfaces with sloping mirror-polished accents.
The iconic ball-shaped screw-down crown integrates seamlessly into the case middle, its generous curve ensuring comfortable operation of the automatic movement while maintaining 120-meter water resistance for daily wear confidence.
At the heart of this 5N red gold Sport Auto beats the LF270.01 movement—an automatic caliber featuring a micro-rotor, entirely conceived, decorated, and assembled in Geneva workshops. This robust and precise engine evolved from the micro-rotor with natural escapement, receives exquisite hand-finishing, and incorporates a 950 platinum oscillating weight. The micro-rotor bears laser-engraved decoration containing subtle numerical references to the 1979 race, visible only to the most discerning observers.
Upholding Laurent Ferrier’s reputation for flawless finishing, the movement represents a true mechanical masterwork that enthusiasts can admire through the sapphire crystal case back. The entire caliber radiates energy through bridges featuring refined horizontal ruthenium-treated satin-brushed finishes.
Numerous finishing stages are completed by hand within LF's dedicated workshop. The rotor bridge decoration exemplifies this precision: corner beveling, polishing with gentian wood and diamond paste, plus mirror-polished surface finishing or "brouillage" scratch-brushing technique on the main plate side. These finishing stages alone require 2 to 3 hours per component. This expertise extends throughout all movement components, featuring intricate interior angles, black zinc-polished surfaces, and ruthenium satin-brushed or circular-grained finishes—all orchestrated in-house within the manufacture's workshops.
On the wrist, the timepiece exudes quiet luxury—the kind of watch that announces quality craftsmanship to those who recognize it, while maintaining the refined discretion that Laurent Ferrier is known for. The warm red gold complements most skin tones beautifully, developing a subtle patina over time that adds to its character and personal connection with the wearer.
Sticker Price USD 85,000. For more info on Laurent Ferrier click here.
