The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech

Here is the latest from the Girard-Perregaux Laureato, the Absolute Chronograph 8Tech. Announced for Geneva Watch Days 2023, this special carbon-clad chronograph is a further extension of the Laureato Absolute collection, which focuses on modern designs that use special processes and work with advanced materials.
bugatti watch replica chanel watch j12 replica Replica Breitling Top Time B01 high quality replica watches chanel ceramic watch replica rado replica watch In this case, that means a 44mm Laureato Absolute made from a carbon-titanium composite material that is the result of a manufacturing technique called “Tech8. ” The process is similar to that of prepreg carbon fiber but includes the introduction of titanium powder. This forms very thin sheets, which are layered together to build up the material to the extent that the watch’s components (like the case as well as bezel) can then be milled into shape.
The final product looks quite a bit different from carbon fiber, with strands of shiny waves that form a patterning similar to that of Damascus steel. As a continued fan associated with carbon-cased watches, I wanted to write about this Laureato as soon as I saw the wristshot below. Carbon watches come in many different shapes and finishes, but take a good long look at the gorgeous patterning of that case.
The unique case execution is then fitted with a nicely minimal gradient grey dial with lighter grey accents throughout. The design is three-dimensional but almost entirely monochromatic, with sandwich-style markers, minimal text, three clean and also legible subdials, and a date display set between the four and five (hour) markers.
Visible through a smoked display case back, the Laureato Absolute Wathe 8Tech uses the brand’s GP03300-1058 automatic movement. Ticking at 4 Hz along with offering a power reserve regarding 46 hours, we’ve seen this movement in past versions involving Absolute chronographs, and it is based directly upon Girard-Perregaux’s GP03300 chronograph motion.
With an in-house movement and a special lightweight material used for the case, the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech carries a price tag of $27, 800. For context, the actual entry price for the Laureato line is $14, 300 for a 42mm example with a steel case and bracelet.
Look, I’ll be the first to admit that the bulk of the particular Laureato line doesn’t command much of my attention, which is likely more about the generally saturated nature of the integrated band sports watch market than the specific bonafides of Girard-Perregaux’s entry. GP can trace the Laureato name back to 1975, and as much as I can understand needing the faithfully old-school model that can do battle against the Royal Oak, typically the Nautilus, often the Alpine Eagle – in addition to myriad others – I think the Laureato is quite a bit more interesting when they lean in to what that shape can be as a watch in 2023.
Offering a more sporty and modern expression from the Laureato, the exact Abolsute selection could arguably be framed as GP’s take on any formula similar to that of the very AP Offshore, but with a dash of Richard Mille, or maybe Hublot, for good measure. The lineup employs special blends of modern materials like carbon, glass, titanium, and more, all while aligning with outfits like the Aston Martin F1 team.
What sets the main Laureato Total Chronograph 8Tech apart is that last word – 8Tech. The process allows for an entirely different look for the co2 composite situation. Take the chunky or flake-laden look of the case for the Laureato Absolute Timepiece Aston Martin F1 (below, left), and you’ll see the distinction.
I have a real fondness for carbon sports watches, and I simply love the case finish for the Complete Chronograph 8Tech and how it offers the silhouette of a classic ’70s design but in some sort of thoroughly contemporary execution which looks great and is five times lighter than steel. Matched with a black rubber strap, the look is actually contemporary plus sporty, and i also especially appreciate how the wild case complete is juxtaposed by the flat and very grey tones in the dial and even hands.
Regardless of the brand in question, if your goal is to take on AP together with Patek in the octagon that will Genta built, you have a fight ahead of you. With the Laureato Absolute Time counter 8Tech, Girard-Perregaux shows that it’s not afraid to hit the gym and test new strategies. Here’s hoping a new 38mm non-chrono is the next Laureato to receive the 8Tech treatment.