Girard-Perregaux has released two new colorways for the Laureato Absolute timepiece — a smoked gray sapphire crystal case “Light & Shade,†and a super limited-edition “Light & Fire†version starring a translucent red case in celebration of the Lunar New Year.
First unveiled in 2019, the Laureto Absolute line not only is a modern homage to the original 1975 Laureato model, but also an encapsulation of Girard-Perregaux’s vast knowledge and experience in horology. While it’s powered by the octagonal, in-house GP01800 calibre that references the original Laureato’s bezel design, the open-worked design, and the skeletonized movement serve to demonstrate the beauty of its inner workings.
From lines with curves, to modern with retro features, the design play with juxtaposition as its unique charm. The “Light & Shade†boasts a 44mm case composed of metalized sapphire crystal that underwent a 170 hours process to create its mesmerizing yet brilliant shine. As for the “Light & Fire,†the watch is housed in a YAG case, a new kind of polycrystalline that possesses similar qualities to sapphire crystal, but with added coloring variety. Intended as a limited-edition timepiece for the Lunar New Year, the material’s color malleability was an important aspect for the team at Girard-Perragaux, who were determined to have it in a deep red hue to emulate the burning embers of flames.
The Laureato Absolute timepieces are priced at $99,600 USD each, while the “Light & Shade†is a non-limited release, the “Light & Fire†iteration is produced in a limited and auspicious run of 18 units only. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
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