Girard-Perregaux adds two new models to the bold and sporty sub-group Laureato Absolute collection of the successful model family Laureato in the Sport-Chic segment. The new models draw attention with their transparent metalized sapphire crystal cases.
Representing the innovative, sporty, and bold aspect of the concept, Laureato Absolute continues to decorate the GP catalogs since 2019. The model family, where alternative materials meet stylish and eye-catching designs, is expanding with two new versions. One of the models comes with a red translucent case to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Sapphire cases and skeletonized movements are not new details for the Laureato family. We saw the GP Laureato Skeleton Earth to Sky in 2019, the combination of a skeletonized movement and sapphire case on the Laureato Absolute Light model in 2020, and similar details with a blue-themed model for Bucherer in 2021.
The new models come with a case designed with a diameter of 44mm and a height of 11.56mm. A ball made from a sapphire crystal ball using the "Kyropoulos magnification method" is used to create the case of the Light & Shade model. This technique is known for involving different heating points to produce large, high-quality cylindrical crystals. In the process, which can take eight weeks, the alumina powder is turned into a solid block of sapphire crystal, which is then cut into small discs and machined to create the bezel, middle case, and cover. It is then thermally treated and polished. Finally, the metallization process applied to the surface gives the appearance of sapphire dark. According to GP's statement, the sapphire crystal case takes 170 hours to produce.
The red glow used by the case used in the Light & Fire model to celebrate the Chinese New Year is obtained by using a polycrystalline material known as YAG. Similar to sapphire crystal, the material, which is translucent, hard, and scratch-resistant, can also be produced in darker tones.
As with previous models of the Laureato Absolute Light, titanium is used for the horn and crown. The model draws attention with its weight of only 85 grams. The titanium horns, processed with black PVD, as well as brushed and polished, match perfectly with the dark gray tones of the movement. The Laureate's trademark octagonal bezel is supported by a sapphire crystal with eight screws that run the length of the case to secure the octagonal case back.
The new models are powered by the in-house designed and produced Caliber GP01800-1143 movement. The automatic caliber, which is the skeleton version of the GP 1800 movement, offers a power reserve time of up to 54 hours when fully wound.
Sporty models are accompanied by black rubber straps with a woven effect and embellished with red or black stitching. While the Light and Shade model takes its place in the standard collection, the Light & Fire model is limited to 18 pieces. The list price for the models is CHF 95,000 for each.
