At a time when it had already represented the very best in horology for over 180 years, Swiss watchmaker Girard-Perregaux kicked off a bold new chapter with the launch of the original Laureato back in 1975. With its octagonal bezel sitting atop a circle and integrated bracelet, the model redefined elegance and ergonomics, spawning various iterations over the following decades. The original beauty turns 50 next year, but Girard-Perregaux is celebrating early with the release of the new Laureato Chronograph Ti49. Updating key design elements with modern construction methods and a brilliant new look, the chronograph makes for a sporty masterpiece and an exceptionally wearable one at that.
A milestone in more ways than one, the Laureato Chronograph Ti49 comes forged from ultra-strong Grade 5 titanium and is used on the cutting edge of such innovative fields as aerospace, supercars, and healthcare. Here, it is harnessed to create an optical fascination via mirror- and satin-finished details on various parts of the case.
While this lightweight and sturdy material is being used more often across modern watches, it was actually discovered all the way back in 1791. As it just so happens, Girard-Perregaux was founded the very same year. Plus, this latest chronograph commemorates the 49th birthday of its iconic precursor, with the model name driving home these foundational underpinnings, with “Ti” for titanium and “49” for the number of years since the first model’s inception.
To behold the Laureato Chronograph Ti49 is to recognise a seamless blending of timeless design and modern flourish. The watch’s octagonal bezel sitting atop a circle, intricate case, and integrated bracelet are as striking now as ever before, but the use of titanium cultivates an unmistakably contemporary aesthetic. Rounding out the model’s visual prowess is a grey display, which puts hypnotic subdials and PVD-treated details (namely the GP logo and indexes) over a ‘Clous de Paris’ patterned backdrop. Under dark conditions, the PVD-treated details take on a white luminosity, which allows readability no matter the conditions.
The Laureato Chronograph Ti49 runs on a calibre GP03300-0141, a self-winding chronograph movement, driving two counters and a small seconds, along with a date display. In addition to its immaculate timekeeping, it features a 46-hour power reserve, all of which is protected by water resistance of 100m. The watch’s solid caseback is secured by six screws and adorned with signature engravings to make for a visual statement of its own. Thanks to the aforementioned use of titanium metal—a material that’s famously difficult to machine—the 42mm chronograph is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, hypoallergenic, sleek, sporty, dynamic, and ergonomic. Indeed, this might be the most wearable Laureato to date, which is saying a lot because the series is already highly regarded for its comfort and wearability.
With its latest release, Girard-Perregaux pays homage to multiple milestones and reinvents one of the most legendary models in the brand’s history. Still daring after all these years, the new Laureato Chronograph Ti49 retains the look and feel of the original but updates the material, mechanics, and key design elements to impart prime wearability and sporty elegance for the modern era. Resurrection, meet reinvention.
Discover more about the Laureato Chronograph Ti49 at The Hour Glass’ boutiques in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland and Adelaide (opening soon). Visit the website or enquire below to book an appointment.
