Discover the Elegance of the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Fifty: An Integrated-Bracelet Sports Watch Redefined
Today, we’re taking an exciting look at an exceptional timepiece that’s sure to win over watch enthusiasts. The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Fifty in full stainless steel is a watch that seems like it was destined to be created, and the moment is finally here. Get ready for the full scoop!
As I previously mentioned in my article about Girard-Perregaux, the current Laureato collection has been around since 2016, reviving a design reminiscent of the original 1975 model. In the past few years, we’ve seen an incredible variety of styles and complications. Last year, the brand celebrated the Laureato’s 50th anniversary with the introduction of a smaller 39mm model. While RJ’s hands-on review of the beautifully crafted Laureato Fifty was a delight, it faced two limitations: its rarity, with only 200 pieces produced, and its two-tone case. While the latter wasn’t a deterrent, many felt that this design truly deserved an all-steel version—a desire that has finally been fulfilled!
The All-New Laureato Fifty in Stainless Steel
Much like its limited-edition counterpart, the stainless steel Laureato Fifty boasts a 39mm case and a lug-to-lug measurement of 46mm. At just 10.2mm thick, it’s perfect for everyday wear and designed to withstand the elements with its 150-meter water resistance and screw-down crown. Plus, it features a sapphire crystal with an antireflective coating, ensuring clarity in all conditions.
An Eye-Catching Dial
The Laureato Fifty channels its ’70s integrated-bracelet sports watch roots with a beautifully textured dial. One standout feature is what it lacks—a date window, which distinguishes it from last year’s bicolor Laureato Fifty limited edition. Instead, it showcases a luxurious deep blue-green hand-applied enamel surface over a striking Clous de Paris-patterned base.
The additional detailing is minimalistic, featuring only the applied Girard-Perregaux logo and name. Adorned with 18K white gold baton-shaped hour markers and central hands, the indexes and minute hands are filled with luminous material that glows blue. This, my friends, is how an elegant integrated-bracelet sports watch should look—simple, regal, and timeless.
A Finely Finished Case
Girard-Perregaux is renowned for its exceptional finishing, and the Laureato Fifty continues that legacy. The case elegantly combines brushed and polished surfaces, creating a striking visual appeal, especially along the top edges and at contact points on the wrist. The signature eight-sided bezel remains a highlight with its myriad surfaces converging on a round base. The polished crown mirrors the bezel’s shape, reinforcing the watch’s cohesive design.
Powered by the In-House GP4800 Automatic Movement
The Laureato Fifty features an impressive and beautifully crafted caliber. While display backs have become standard in this niche, not all movements warrant such admiration. The GP4800 certainly does, showcasing a stunning design with a rose gold balance bridge, which harmonizes beautifully with its similarly styled oscillating rotor.
With Côtes de Genève finish on the main plate and generous use of anglage, the 19-jewel movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 55 hours. Featuring a silicon escapement, this beautifully symmetrical movement truly is a sight to behold.
A Perfectly Crafted Bracelet
The integrated bracelet of the Laureato Fifty features brushed H-style links interspersed with polished rectangular sections. Each link can be adjusted with a tiny screw, allowing for a precise fit. The flush-fitting butterfly clasp, activated by twin push-buttons, displays the brand’s logo split between two links, creating an elegant touch. Notably, the underside of the clasp links incorporates a mechanism that provides a 4mm total micro-adjustment.
Wearing the Laureato Fifty
While the original 42mm Laureato is undeniably stunning, its size can be a bit overwhelming for some. On the other hand, the 39mm Laureato Fifty perfectly strikes a balance. For those of us who have awaited this release, it has been worth the wait. Some watches struggle to maintain their appeal in different sizes, but this model defies expectations and achieves stunning proportionality.
On the wrist, the bracelet moves fluidly, and the watch sits comfortably. The dial’s blue-green hue shifts beautifully with different lighting, enhanced further by the rich depth of the enamel finish. Girard-Perregaux made a smart choice in using this pigment on the textured dial, setting it apart from others in its category. The absence of a date window complements my appreciation for symmetry, and while some may miss this feature, I believe the decision adds to the overall elegance of the watch.
Final Thoughts on the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Fifty
The new Laureato Fifty in stainless steel is undeniably a stunning timepiece. This addition to the Girard-Perregaux lineup is a strong contender against the myriad of competitors in the integrated-bracelet sports watch market. Unique touches—like the choice of dial color and finish, along with the absence of a date window—make it a standout piece. And the best part? This is not a limited edition, making it a more accessible choice for those looking to add a luxury watch to their collection.
However, with a list price of €24,000, it’s clearly in the luxury category. While not surprising given the pricing of other Girard-Perregaux Laureato models, it certainly reflects the quality and design on offer. If I were in the market for a Laureato, this model would be my top pick, hands down!
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