Introducing: Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech

Girard-Perregaux proves to be at the vanguard of composite materials technology with their latest creation, the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech. Launched at Geneva Watch Days 2023, the watch features a case formed from octagonal carbon parts in a random structural pattern, optimising this avant-garde material to breath-taking effect.

The Laureato collection has its roots dating back to 1975, when sports models with integrated bracelets that could pair with casual to cocktail became the trend of the times. This distinct silhouette established from its foundations has undergone numerous interpretations, while remaining true to its avant-garde design and a sporty appearance.

The Laureato Absolute, a new expression introduced by Girard-Perregaux in 2019, has been dressed in various groundbreaking materials, including metallised sapphire crystal, carbon glass, and rubber alloy. For Geneva Watch Days 2023, Girard-Perregaux continues this vanguard spirit, with the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech, in a carbon-titanium composite material.

Geometry in Form

Measuring in at 44mm, the case of the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech is made of unidirectional, non-braided and pre-impregnated carbon fibres combined with titanium powder to form super-thin 0.05mm layers. These layers are superimposed on one another, in different orientations, to form “stacks” that are then cut into octagons. These shapes are placed into a mould, and subject to heat and pressure, before being milled and refined by hand for the case components. This carbon-titanium material is five times lighter than steel, but with comparable strength and rigidity, offering excellent comfort on the wrist.

The sandwich constructed dial has an upper surface that is sandblasted with a gradient grey finish, congruent with the carbon-titanium case and bezel. The lower layer is made of Grade 5 titanium, partially revealed by the apertures in the upper surface, and serve as the indexes. Rectangular markings next to the index apertures, along with baton-type hour and minute hands in a grey titanium hue, have undergone luminescent treatment ensure visibility even in restricted light. For contrast, the subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock have a sandblasted finish.

A Modern Presentation of Traditional Craftsmanship

The Laureato Absolute 8Tech is fitted with the self-winding Calibre GP03300-1058 Manufacture movement. Visible through the smoked sapphire crystal display at the back of the watch, the movement comprises 419 components and features exemplary finishing, including Côtes de Genève, chamfering and straight graining, perpetuating the traditional skills practised by Girard-Perregaux since 1791.

The watch comes with a black rubber strap featuring a fabric-effect look and grey stitching. In full Laureato tradition, the strap is integrated within the case and confers superior comfort on the wrist. The folding titanium buckle with black PVD treatment incorporates a micro-adjustment system, allowing the sizing of the strap to be fine-tuned for optimal fit.

Explore the Girard-Perregaux Laureato collection at The Hour Glass today.