Girard-Perregaux Laureato Evo3 Quartz Review
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Girard-Perregaux Laureato Evo3 Quartz Review

By this_hobby_of_hours · May 27, 2024 · 33 replies
this_hobby_of_hours
WPS member · Girard Perregaux forum
33 replies6274 views10 photos
f 𝕏 in πŸ’¬ βœ‰ πŸ”—

In a significant addition to his Girard Perregaux collection, this_hobby_of_hours introduces a rare Laureato Evo3 ref. 80188, a timepiece that marks both his first quartz acquisition and his inaugural Evo3. His post not only showcases this exceptional watch but also delves into Girard Perregaux's pivotal, yet often overlooked, role in the history of quartz watchmaking. This article highlights why this specific reference is a crucial piece for any serious collector, bridging historical significance with modern horological appreciation.

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Friends,

I’m excited to announce a new arrival to my GP collection. A double first for me … a quartz and also my first Laureato Evo3 (Generation 4 of the Laureato).

We have been talking about the pivotal role that GP played in the quartz world.

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ In 1970 (happens to be the year I was born) GP presented the first Swiss-made quartz wristwatch.

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ And in 1971, GP went even further and introduced the first quartz wristwatch in the world to be running at 32,768 Hz. Even the Japanese were in awe and licensed this technology from GP to be used in their own watches. It was not only accurate, it was also robust.

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ We also know that the Laureato was launched by GP to commercial success in 1975 using its in-house quartz technology.

So ….

πŸ¦„ In 2010, in a special double anniversary commemorative LE, GP released the Laureato ref 80188 which used the calibre 13500. 40 pieces made in this blue-grey dial and each Individually numbered with their LE number.





























This model was designed by Stefano Macaluso and presented at SIHH in February 2010. πŸ‘

We lost Luigi Macaluso the chairman and owner of GP that same year in October. πŸ˜” The Macaluso family were the owners of GP for about 20 years (1991-2011) and they are attributed for bringing GP to the mainstream collecting world of Haute Horology.

This quartz calibre 13500 was specifically developed for this Limited Edition and was never used for any other GP after. And this is the only quartz timepiece that GP has made in this sort size.

Double anniversary: 40 years for GP quartz (1970-2010) and 35 years for the Laureato (1975-2010). And yes, with a well decorated display caseback and the 32,768 Hz on the dial. I especially like the iconic GP single bridge that runs across the gold battery cover.

I’m excited that a special collector decided that his 80188 would find a good home with me. These are rarely seen on the market. And this collector did not advertise it for sale …. some begging may have been involved on my part. πŸ˜„

I love it. β™₯️

At 42.6 mm case-diameter and 11.6 mm height, it wears well. Water resistant to 100 meters. The date, seconds hand and the 32768 Hz all in red. Bold. Very bold.

It’s got a lot of character, coupled with definitive provenance and historical importance for GP in specific and the world of quartz in general.

Now, all I just have to do is remember that it does not require winding …. ☺️

It arrived today and I wanted to share some pics with you all.

As always, I welcome your comments and questions.

Thanks for reading.

About the F.P. Journe Evo 3 Ref. 80188

The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Evo 3 reference 80188 was introduced as a novelty at SIHH 2010. This model was created to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Girard-Perregaux establishing the 32,768 Hz frequency, which remains a standard in quartz timekeeping. It distinguishes itself within the Laureato Evo 3 line by its specific anniversary context and its in-house quartz movement, which is visible through a display case-back. This reference represents a particular moment in the brand's history of quartz innovation.

This timepiece features a 42.6 mm case, housing the in-house quartz calibre 13500. The movement is presented through a display case-back, allowing for observation of its construction. The use of a quartz movement in a collector-oriented piece with a visible caliber is a notable characteristic of this reference. The crystal type is sapphire.

Reportedly produced in limited numbers, with an estimated 20 pieces made out of an initial plan for 40, this reference appeals to collectors interested in Girard-Perregaux's technical history and rare, specific anniversary editions. Its focus on the brand's contribution to quartz frequency standards positions it as a unique offering within the broader Laureato Evo 3 series, distinct from mechanical variants.

Specifications

Caliber
Calibre 13500
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
42.6 mm
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
IN
indignantdenial
May 27, 2024

I really enjoy that you can see the movement; a rarity with quartz pieces.

LA
LarsG
May 27, 2024

It is a good looking watch. And I enjoy your knowledge and enthusiasm of this brand. I always learn sometjlng from your posts πŸ˜ƒ

HO
hoseachandra
May 27, 2024

The bracelet is very similar to IWC ingenieur (previous generation, ref 3239) bracelet.

JL
jlux
May 27, 2024

And this is perhaps the best finished quartz movement that I have ever seen !!

KM
KMII
May 27, 2024

Glad you decided to take the plunge! Very curious to hear your experiences with it πŸ‘πŸ»πŸ‘πŸ»πŸ‘πŸ»

GE
geross
May 27, 2024

Warm appreciation for sharing your joy and passion. 😊 Geross.

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