Three years after the Laureato first reappeared in Girard-Perregaux’s catalog, there is little doubt that it is the headlining collection for the brand. Since it’s limited-edition re-introduction at Baselworld 2016, we’ve seen skeletons, chronographs, and a large number of variations in size, material, and color. In 2019, to go along with a new Laureato Perpetual Calendar, Girard-Perregaux is launching the Laureato Absolute, a new collection of three timepieces that transitions the Laureato from its Royal Oak-esque hobnail dial and into a more contemporary dégradé blue dial with a satin-brushed and black PVD-coated titanium case in its recognizable octagonal shape.
The three new watches are a time-and-date only model, a chronograph, and a worldtimer. All three use the same design language, such as the previously mentioned dial color and 44-mm case design, and boast an impressive water resistance rating of 300 meters. In addition, all three models utilize manufacture movements. Other details like the sunburst finish on the dial, the Super-LumiNova-applied baton hour and minute hands, and the Girard-Perregaux-branded black rubber strap remain consistent throughout as well.
The Laureato Absolute is a fairly traditional three-hander with date at 6 o’clock. It’s the only model of the three that uses a red seconds hand instead of white. The movement inside is automatic caliber GP03300-1060 with a power reserve of 46 hours.
The Laureato Absolute WW.TC is a variation on the brand’s popular WW.TC worldtimer, last seen in 2017’s 1966 WW.TC. The new model is functionally similar to the 1966 model (which you can read more about here) but is aesthetically very different. It uses the GP03300-1056 with a 46-hour power reserve.
The Laureato Absolute Chronograph is also my personal favorite iteration. The first Laureato Chronograph was a finalist at the 2018 edition of the GPHG in the chronograph category and the new model is a worthy spiritual successor with its attractive blue-to-black dial. Each counter at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock features a slightly sunken black subdial with a blue and white register surrounding it. One small detail that I really appreciate is the carved blue lining seen near the edge of the pushers. It uses automatic caliber GP03300-1058 with a, you guessed it, 46-hour power reserve.
Prices haven’t been confirmed but all three models are said to land between $9,000 and $12,250.
