Girard-Perregaux is celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Laureato, the iconic timepiece first released in 1975 and now much admired by collectors. To mark this occasion, the Laureato Ghost, an exclusive limited-edition model, will be produced in collaboration with Bamford Watch Department.
We had a great session with Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Girard-Perregaux and George Bamford, Founder of Bamford Watch Department, to hear about the inspiration for the new watch which is housed in white ceramic – a first for both companies, immortalising the timepiece’s instantly recognisable pairing of different forms, juxtaposing a circular case with an octagonal bezel and sleek lines.
Housed in a 38mm technical white ceramic case, this premium material is lighter than titanium, scratch resistant, stain resistant and hypoallergenic. Furthermore, this particular grade of ceramic has been specially selected for its perfectly vitrified surface and its uniform, lustrous appearance allowing for finishes characteristic of classic steel and gold Laureatos.
We also heard from George, about the ‘hidden gems’ of the new watch which included the stunning in-house movement (Ref. GP03300-0139).
I am known for my black watches and loving everything black, however, consistent with the other watches I have worked on, I wanted to push boundaries by designing a white watch this time. Whenever I collaborate with another company, I always look to achieve a synergy where both parties create something they probably wouldn’t produce on their own.
George Bamford, Founder, Bamford Watch Department
The Laureato is an important pillar of our brand. At the time it was launched, it was very avant garde, not only because of its innovative design aesthetic but alsobecause it was one of the first timepieces to include a fully integrated bracelet…the Laureato Ghost respects the spirit of the Laureato butlooks new, fresh and original. Most of all, this is one ghost you don’t need to fear.
Patrick Pruniaux, CEO, Girard Perregaux
Technical specifications:
LAUREATO GHOST
Limited Edition of 45 pieces
Standard version on leather strap
Reference: 81005-32-733-UB7A
UK Retail Price (tax incl): £10,300
Alternate version on ceramic bracelet
Reference 81005-32-733-32A
UK Retail Price (tax incl): £12,000
Case
Material: technical white ceramic
Diameter: 38.00 mm
Height: 10.20 mm
Glass: anti-reflective sapphire
Crown: black PVD-treated titanium
Case-back: sapphire crystal
Dial: white with ‘Clous de Paris’ pattern, black ‘baton’ type indexes with luminescent material
Hands: black ’baton’ type with luminescent material
Water resistance: 100 metres (10 ATM)
Movement
Reference: GP03300-0139
Self-winding mechanical movement
Diameter: 25.95 mm
Height: 3.36 mm
Frequency: 28,800 Vib/h – (4 Hz)
Number of components: 218
Number of jewels: 27
Power reserve: min. 46 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, central second, date
Strap
Material: white calf with a fabric effect, black stitching
Buckle: triple folding, steel blades, white ceramic cover
Bracelet
Material: white technical ceramic
The Girard Perregaux Laureato Ghost is limited to 45 pieces. The model is available exclusively at Dover Street Market and Harrods for a limited period of one month from November 2020.
Subsequently, the watch will be available worldwide through authorised Girard-Perregaux retailers.