Girard-Perregaux Laureato: Our 10 Best Picks
Girard-Perregaux is known to be one of the oldest Swiss watches manufactures out there. Aside from that, it is also the home of the iconic Girard-Perregaux Laureato collection. This range is known for its sporty, classic watches that boast timeless elegance. In this article, we will get to know the brand, the collection, and some of their best timepieces in the market.
One of the Oldest Watch Companies in the World
The beginning of Girard-Perregaux’s story dates back to 1781 when Jean-François Bautte established a watch manufacturing company in Switzerland. However, it was only in the 1850s, when Constant Girard married Marie Perregaux, that the name Girard-Perregaux Manufacture was officially used. This means that Bautte and Girard-Perregaux were two separate companies before Constant Girard-Gallet acquired Bautte’s company. The acquisition also allowed them to claim that they’ve been making Swiss timepieces since the late 18th century.
As one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world, Girard-Perregaux has seen and experienced it all. They have created numerous masterful timepieces that are revolutionary in both engineering and design. For example, back in 1889, they were awarded a gold medal at the Paris Universal Expedition for the La Esmeralda Tourbillon. In addition, the brand is also one of the first companies to launch elegant sports watches with octagonal bezels and steel bracelets in the 1970s. They were a pioneer in incorporating sophistication in manufacturing reliable sports timepieces.
At present, the brand is a part of the Sowind Group, which happens to be a subsidiary of a French luxury group called Kering. There are a total of five collections in Girard-Perregaux’s current catalogue, namely: Girard-Perregaux Laureato, Girard-Perregaux Bridges, Girard-Perregaux 1966, Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945, and Girard-Perregaux Cat’s Eye.
Best Girard-Perregaux Laureato Watches
According to the brand, sporty elegance is what the Laureato collection is all about. Its first watch was released back in 1975 which boasted polished aesthetics and ergonomic features. Today, the Laureato consists of different models such as the Chronograph, Classic, Absolute, Ghost, and Tourbillon. Moreover, this luxurious and sophisticated range offers Girard-Perregaux watches for both men and women.
Now that we know more about Girard-Perregaux’s Laureato collection, here are some models available in the market right now!
1. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Infinity Edition
Starting off with a classic watch, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Infinity Edition is the perfect embodiment of vintage and quintessential. The use of pure black onyx represents Girard-Perregaux’s deep essence akin to that of the night sky. It is a limited-edition model that takes inspiration from the brand’s most classic pieces to ever be released.
The 42mm Girard-Perregaux Infinity Edition comes in a case and bracelet both made out of stainless steel. Its onyx dial consists of rose gold hour markers, steel hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Moreover, this limited edition Girard-Perregaux watch is powered by a calibre GP01800 with a 54-hour power reserve. Priced at $13,900 USD, this Laureato piece is the ideal watch for classic icon lovers out there.
2. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph
Next up, we have a lovely Girard-Perregaux piece in the form of the Laureato Chronograph 42mm. This is the brand’s way of delving into the iconic luxury sports watch world. It boasts a very versatile design, making it suitable for any occasion. However, don’t let that fool you because this model is just as striking as it is classic.
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph comes in a 42mm 904L steel case and bracelet. Its silver dial follows a Clous de Paris pattern with luminescent hands and hour markers. This model also features a date window, between 4 and 5 o’clock, and three subdials. As if that’s not eye-catching enough, the counters follow a grooved pattern similar to a record player and a race car dashboard. Powered by a calibre GP03300, this self-winding mechanical piece boasts a power reserve of up to 46 hours. You also won’t have to worry about durability because it has high corrosion resistance and water resistance of up to 100 meters. Retailing for $15,800 USD, this luxurious Girard-Perregaux Laureato sports watch is one of the best they have to offer.
3. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Light
Next up is the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Light with its rather unique design. It is a limited-edition piece priced at approximately $8,8900 USD. This model is the epitome of Girard-Perregaux’s mastery of the art of watchmaking. Everything from the concept to the intricacy of the skeleton layout screams timeless sophistication. With only 88 pieces produced, this is a great rare Girard-Perregaux watch for connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The Laureato Absolute Light comes in a sapphire and titanium case paired with a rubber bracelet. The transparent dial features an exclusive view of the inner workings behind the watch along with luminescent hands. Following a self-winding mechanical movement, its calibre GP01800 boasts a power reserve of 54 hours. This Girard-Perregaux watch is undeniably a masterpiece both in engineering and design.
4. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Ghost
Here we have yet another limited-edition Girard-Perregaux Laureato watch. The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Ghost is actually a product of a collaboration with the Bamford Watch Department. Inspired by a 1975 version of the Laureato, only 45 pieces of this avant-garde model were produced. Retailing for $16,900 USD, this rare Girard-Perregaux watch is a must-have for all timepiece collectors out there.
The Laureato Ghost comes in a white ceramic case and bracelet. Following a Clous de Paris pattern, its white dial includes luminescent hands and indexes plus a date window at 3 o’clock. Furthermore, this unique watch is powered by a calibre GP03300, tried and tested by Girard-Perregaux, that boasts an impressive power reserve of 46 hours. Aside from being the perfect unique accessory, it also happens to be a durable diver’s watch with a water resistance of up to 100 meters.
5. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Chronograph
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Chronograph is a piece that screams masculine and robust. Right off the bat, you can immediately tell that this Girard-Perregaux luxury sports watch is one that can withstand harsh circumstances. No one can deny that this lovely piece would make a great addition to any man’s ensemble.
It comes in a titanium PVD case paired with a rubber bracelet. Its blue, sunray dial consists of wide luminescent hands and indexes. Moreover, this mechanical timepiece also has a date window and 3 black subdials. Powered by a calibre GP03300, durability and longevity are the least of your worries with this watch because of its 46-hour power reserve and 300m water resistance. With a price of $13,500 USD, this is definitely a great Girard-Perregaux sports watch to have.
6. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute is a very modern and rugged-looking watch. With a single glance, you can tell how it was created with the thought of active men in mind. It has a powerful vibe that should be reassuring to watch connoisseurs who enjoy sports and extreme activities.
The Laureato Absolute comes in a titanium PVD case paired with a rubber bracelet. Following a sunray motif, its blue dial consists of luminescent indexes in black. It also has a date window at 6 o’clock and impressive water resistance of up to 300 meters. In terms of technical details, this model is powered by a calibre GP03300-1060 with a power reserve of up to 46 hours. Lastly, this straightforward watch for men retails for approximately $10,400 USD.
7. Girard-Perregaux Laureato 38mm
Next up, we have the Girard-Perregaux Laureato 38mm, giving off that classic vibe. It is a direct descendant of the original Laureato model from the 1970s. With its vintage design and unambiguous layout, this watch is a must-have for all the timepiece collectors out there. Ladies, you can get this watch for approximately $11,400 USD.
The Laureato 38mm comes in a case and bracelet both made out of stainless steel. Its silver dial follows a Clous de Paris pattern with luminescent hands and hour markers plus a date window. Running on a GP03300 calibre, this automatic watch also boasts 27 jewels and a whopping 46-hour power reserve. More than that, this lovely Girard-Perregaux watch is also suitable for water activities with a water resistance of up to 100 meters. What’s more to ask for, right?
8. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Skeleton
Next up, we have the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Skeleton model. Now, open case watches are typically considered as an acquired taste for most. Some are enamored with the intricate engineering and uniqueness of it all while some are not the biggest fans. However, Girard-Perregaux does an amazing job in making skeleton timepieces feel more classic and sophisticated. With a price tag of $66,900 USD, this watch is definitely luxury at its finest.
It comes in a case and bracelet made out of rose gold. The transparent dial features a close-up view of the beautifully crafted inner workings. Aside from that, it also features luminescent hands and hour markers in rose gold as well. Lastly, this Laureato watch is powered by a calibre GP01800-0006 with an impressive power reserve of up to 54 hours. This is a lavish option for watch lovers who enjoy superior engineering.
9. Girard-Perregaux Laureato 34mm
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato 34mm is a lovely luxury watch for all the ladies out there. It is a quintessential piece with lavish and vintage elements as well. Personally, I think the best part about this model is its timelessness. The Laureato 34mm is a timepiece one can wear even 15 years from now.
It comes in a case and bracelet made out of rose gold and steel. Following a Clous de Paris pattern, its silver dial luminescent hands and hour markers along with a date window at 3 o’clock. Meanwhile, its bezel is adorned with 56 brilliant-cut diamonds. Priced at $16,700 USD, this quartz watch is equipped with a calibre GP013100. Definitely one of the best ladies’ watches in Girard-Perregaux’s Laureato collection.
10. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Rock
Last on this list, we have another limited-edition piece. The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Rock boasts an eccentric and striking design. More than its exterior, this watch also has superior durability and functionality. With only 100 pieces in the world, this must be on the rob list of many watch collectors out there.
It comes in a blue carbon glass case along with a rubber strap. Its black dial consists of 3 counters, a date window, and luminescent hands and hour markers. Moreover, this Girard-Perregaux men’s watch is powered by a calibre GP03300 with an excellent power reserve of 46 hours. Inspired by homogenous structures and rocks, there is no wonder why this piece is marketed as an absolute icon. You can get your hands on this watch for around $16700 USD.
5 Reasons Why You Should Get A Girard-Perregaux Laureato Watch
- Excellent Swiss Craftsmanship. One of the best things about the Laureato collection is how the watches are as reliable as they are beautiful. This is probably expected from a brand that has been in the watchmaking industry for over two centuries. Each piece comes with an intricately made movement that consists of over 400 components. More than that, everything that happens behind the dial is decorated, assembled, and adjusted by hand. This goes to show how serious Girard-Perregaux’s watchmakers are at the craft.
- The Epitome of Elegance. Aside from superior craftsmanship, Girard-Perregaux Laureato watches are the peak of timeless luxury. The designs of this collection are a perfect mix of classic, avant-garde, and artistic. Even the most robust and functional watches they offer boast sophisticated styles.
- Extensive Catalogue of Watches. At present, there are around 62 models in the Laureato collection. The watches range from chronographs to Tourbillon pieces so you definitely won’t have to worry about running out of options. Aside from a variety of models, this collection also comes with a good ratio of men’s and women’s watches in 4 different sizes: 34mm, 38mm, 42mm, and 44mm. This is the ideal collection to check out if you want to get matching luxury watches with your family, friends, or significant other.
- Established Brand. At this point in the article, this reason should be pretty self-explanatory. The Laureato is obviously one of Girard-Perregaux’s most iconic collections. With over two centuries worth of experience in the watchmaking world, it is no surprise that the brand has mastered the said craft. Owning a watch from such a renowned brand is something many watch connoisseurs and collectors dream of.
- Worth Every Penny. While this is more of a subjective point, the other aforementioned reasons should be enough to reiterate why Girard-Perregaux Laureato watches are a major asset. If you have the means to afford luxury watches then you’re definitely getting your money’s worth with this collection. The best part is, you can even get pieces for under $10,000.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Girard-Perregaux Laureato watches are truly the perfect embodiment of timeless elegance. It is an extensive collection of luxury sports timepieces that cater to both men and women. The models featured above are just a glimpse into the beauty and excellent craftsmanship behind the collection. This is a collection you should not miss out on if you’re a luxury watch collector.
If you’re in the market for affordable yet complex watches, check out our article on the Orient Sun and Moon.
