Girard-Perregaux's interpretation of infinity is carried to the wrists by Laureato Infinity Edition models featuring onyx dials.
The place of luxury sports steel watches in horology is not very old. Models, which attract much more attention than classic dress watches due to today's lifestyle, are now among the indispensable elements of this culture despite their short history.
Girard-Perregaux was one of the first brands to offer a sporty-elegant model in 1975 equipped with an octagonal bezel and integrated steel bracelet. Since then, Laureato's design has been known for the harmony of polished and matte surfaces on the balanced interplay of straight lines and curves. The versatility of the model, which complements the concept of sporty elegance with the beauty of a classic dress watch, has made Laureato an iconic sports watch.
The Geneva Watch Days 2020, which took place recently, was the scene for the next act of the Girard-Perregaux Laureato story. Laureato Infinity Edition models captured the spotlights with their hand-crafted jet-black onyx dials. The dark side, where the depth perception is increased with the dial material, rose gold markers, and baton-type, rhodium-plated hands display the time. The balanced distribution of these aesthetic codes, which we encounter in other models in the Infinity collection, is a respectable expression of the brand's eternal passion for fine craftsmanship.
It is not easy to produce and onyx dial. Creating a fine dial requires at least 15 different processes and skills. I think it's worth every effort for the perfect mirror-like look that results.
Laureato Infinity Edition models are offered in two different case diameters, 38mm (Ref. 81005D11A631-11A) and 42mm (Ref. 81010-11-635-11A). The stainless steel case highlights the onyx dial, which is the main distinguishing feature of the model. The Laureato 38mm model is adorned with 56 diamond-cut diamonds, totaling approximately 0.90 carats. The cases, complete with anti-reflection coated sapphire crystals on both sides, are resistant to water pressure up to 100 meters.
Both models are powered by in-house automatic movements with traditional decorations and rotors in rose gold. The movement of the 42mm model, GP01800-1404 offers 54 hours of power reserve, and the 38mm model’s movement, GP03300-1409, provides 46 hours of power reserve when fully wound.
Laureato 38mm Infinity Edition, limited to 88 units only, is available with an MSRP of 15.600 CHF while the Laureato 42mm Infinity Edition, limited to 188 pieces, is available with a price tag of CHF 12,260 through Wempe.
