The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph 42mm in two-tone steel and rose gold with a chocolate brown dial is a modern reinterpretation of a 1970s icon. Limited to just 50 pieces, this timepiece blends the brand's rich heritage with contemporary design and mechanical excellence.
Historical Context: The Laureato's Origins
When Girard-Perregaux introduced the Laureato in 1975, it was a bold entry into the emerging luxury sports watch segment. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the original Laureato was a quartz chronometer, reflecting the era's technological advancements. Its design, however, was purely mechanical in spirit: a slim, tonneau-shaped case with an integrated bracelet and a distinctive octagonal bezel. This aesthetic predated the now-ubiquitous Royal Oak and Nautilus, establishing Girard-Perregaux as a pioneer of the integrated sports watch genre.
After decades of evolution, the Laureato was revived in 2016 as a limited edition for the brand's 225th anniversary, and subsequently became a permanent collection in 2017. The new Laureato Chronograph 42mm continues this legacy, drawing inspiration from the original's two-tone variant while incorporating modern materials and finishing techniques.
Design and Materials: A Two-Tone Affair
The 42mm tonneau-shaped case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, a higher-grade alloy than the commonly used 316L. Its increased chromium content enhances corrosion resistance and takes a brilliant polish. The case features a horizontal brushed finish on the sides, with polished bevels that catch the light. The bezel, crown, and pushers are made of rose gold, providing a warm contrast. The octagonal bezel is circular-brushed, sitting atop a polished round gold base, a signature Laureato detail.
Rose gold and chocolate brown are a classic pairing, and here the dial is the star. It boasts a hobnail (Clou de Paris) pattern that adds depth and texture, reminiscent of the mini Toblerones that inspired the nickname. Three sub-dials with concentric rings display chronograph minutes, hours, and running seconds. A date window at 4:30 blends discreetly with a brown background. The baton indices and hour and minute hands are rose gold-plated and filled with white luminescent material for low-light visibility. The central chronograph seconds hand and the counter hands are gold-plated, adding a subtle gleam.
Movement: The GP03300 Calibre
At the heart of the Laureato Chronograph is the in-house calibre GP03300-2761, a modular automatic chronograph movement. It is a variation of the venerable GP3000, which has been in production since 1994 and is known for its slim profile of just 6.5mm. This thinness contributes to the watch's overall height of 12.16mm, making it comfortable on the wrist despite its 42mm diameter.
The movement comprises 419 components and 63 jewels, beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) with a power reserve of 46 hours. It drives hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph with 30-minute and 12-hour counters, and the date. The movement's finishing is visible through a sapphire crystal caseback: circular graining, Côtes de Genève, snailing, and polished bevels are all present, showcasing Girard-Perregaux's attention to detail. The movement's relatively small diameter (25.6mm) is a nod to its modular construction, which allows for the addition of chronograph functions without significantly increasing thickness.
Strap and Wearability
The Laureato Chronograph is fitted with a brown rubber strap that echoes the dial's hobnail pattern along its centre. This integration of texture and colour creates a cohesive look. The strap is secured by a steel triple-folding clasp, ensuring both security and ease of use. With 100m water resistance and a screw-down crown and caseback, the watch is suitable for everyday wear, though its limited edition status might encourage a more careful approach.
Collectibility and Market Position
Limited to 50 pieces and priced at CHF 24,300 (EUR 26,800), this Laureato Chronograph is aimed at collectors who appreciate the blend of historical significance, modern craftsmanship, and exclusivity. The two-tone steel and rose gold combination is a direct nod to the 1970s, a period when such configurations were popular for their sporty yet luxurious appeal. The chocolate brown dial adds a contemporary twist, making it a standout piece in the Laureato lineup.
As with any limited edition, scarcity drives desirability. The Laureato has gained a dedicated following in recent years, and this chronograph variant, with its distinctive dial and precious metal accents, is likely to be sought after by enthusiasts. Its in-house movement and high-quality finishing further justify its price point, positioning it as a compelling alternative to other integrated chronographs from established maisons.
Conclusion
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph 42mm in steel, rose gold, and chocolate brown is a sophisticated evolution of a classic design. It honours the brand's heritage while embracing modern aesthetics and mechanics. For collectors seeking a limited-edition sports chronograph with a unique character, this Laureato offers a compelling proposition.
Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph 42mm review
two-tone steel and rose gold Laureato
chocolate brown dial Laureato chronograph
Laureato Chronograph limited edition 50 pieces
GP Laureato Chronograph price and specs
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