Girard-Perregaux Laureato 42 mm

In 2016 Girard-Perregaux brought back its iconic Laureato in honor of their 225^th anniversary of the brand. That limited edition of 225 pieces was just a preview of the current overload of Laureato’s that GP is releasing in 2017. A 34 mm quartz version, a 38 mm automatic one, a skeleton piece and one with a tourbillon. And finally, this Girard-Perregaux Laureato 42 mm automatic.

Suffice to say: Girard-Perregaux is hoping that the Laureato will be its new cash cow. The heritage is strong enough. The watch was first introduced in 1975 as a competitor against the giants like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus.

The Girard-Perregaux Laureato 42 mm might become the most popular Laureato

As is the case with the other legends, the key design aesthetic is its bezel. In essence, a circle with an octagon. The 42-millimeter automatic version with the GP01800 caliber combines this with a Clous de Paris pattern on the dial and baton hands.

There is no shortage of choice, you can go for a titanium and 18-carat gold piece with a bracelet or leather strap. Or a stainless steel Laureato with a bracelet or black leather strap. To make it even more difficult there is also the choice of a silver, blue or slate grey dial.

If the Laureato will succeed in being the ‘budget’ watch for Royal Oak and Nautilus-fans, remains to be seen. With this Girard-Perregaux Laureato 42 mm there is a little more choice in a narrow market. Always a good thing.

Italian advertisements from Girard-Perregaux to promote the Laureato, in the 1970s