Collection
Crown comfort provides a historical overview of the Girard-Perregaux Laureato, tracing its evolution from the original Genta design to the modern Evo3. This post highlights the enduring appeal of the Laureato's distinctive octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet, offering a collector's perspective on its various iterations and personal insights into ownership. The author shares his appreciation for the Evo3 Chronograph, particularly its versatility with different straps.
I have not too long ago showed you here in the forum the first release of the GP Laureato. At that time an original Genta design, competing with the Royal Oaks, Nautilus’es and 222s.
Over the years during the 80ties, the Laureato had a few modifications but it’s fair to say I think that none of those were doing any favours to the original design by Genta.
Only at the start of the Macaluso era, a second evolution of the Laureato with an in-house ultra-thin automatic caliber was released in 1995, the Ref 8010, which closely matched the design of the original Laureato but finally fitted a mechanical movement. (I‘m discounting the mid 80ies version with astronomical complication) A chronograph followed soon after, also as the last Olimpico model in the year 1996.
In 2003 then a new, 3rd era of the Laureato started. The Laureato Evo3 was born. A significant evolution from the previous versions with a bold and powerful design while keeping the key characteristics in place such as the octagonal bezel and the bracelet design. A strap version was for the first time also available with the Evo3.
In 2005, GP paid tribute to 30 years of Laureato and 35 years of Quartz movements with the special edition release of the Laureato Evo3 Quartz.
The Evo3 had besides the Chronograph a few other versions. The very nice and still on my wish list large date/moonphase (for me with the grey dial please), the perpetual calendar chronograph (the white gold/whie dial looks gorgeous) and a few limited edition pieces like the sapphire bridge tourbillon which we were able to admire recently in the forum.
After many years, I still have a strong love for my Evo3 Chronograph, in the limited Club Italia edition. The strong character of the watch makes it special to wear. I mostly enjoy the tan strap, but also change to rubber in the summer and also have a dark brown croco strap. The only mandatory change I recommend is to remove the original deployment buckle which is very uncomfortable with the not too light and sizeable watch and replace it with a 19mm GP pin buckle. The gain in comfort is amazing, reaching “crown comfort” so to speak.
So, as we have the year 2015, perhaps there is any hope to see a 4th evolution of the Laureato? What do you think, would that be welcomed?
CC
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1994, reference 8010, is a notable entry in the brand's "Vintage" line from the 1990s, distinguished by its rectangular case design that evokes historical watch aesthetics. This model was introduced in 1994, predating the Vintage 1996 chronograph, and represents an early expression of Girard-Perregaux's strategy to reinterpret classic forms for a contemporary audience. It stands as a foundational piece within the broader Vintage collection, showcasing the brand's commitment to its heritage during a period of significant horological revival.
The reference 8010 typically features a case crafted from stainless steel, measuring 32mm in width and 47mm in length, providing a distinctive wrist presence. It is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, often visible through a sapphire crystal case back, and is protected by a sapphire crystal on the dial side. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 46 hours, ensuring reliable timekeeping. Water resistance is generally rated to 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in Girard-Perregaux's output from the 1990s, particularly those who appreciate watches with a strong vintage aesthetic and a rectangular form factor. It offers a more understated alternative to some of the brand's sportier or more complicated offerings from the same era. The Vintage 1994, reference 8010, represents a key period in the brand's modern history, highlighting its ability to blend traditional design with contemporary manufacturing.
I would like to see it coming back in the collection, indeed. Best, CC. Nicolas
of this Italian limited edition and the use of the Italian flag color theme. It's hard to say if another version, maybe Evo4 will be out. GP is kind of quiet lately and we all know it depends on how sales are doing. Great to see some recommendations on the strap, Thanks CC. Rgds Raymond
But I guess, with the GP magic trick to make it "smaller" by design factors, to " mold" it around your wrist, to play with the lugs, etc.. Thus, still a big, strong boy, but not without "fortified" charm.. Really like the blue waffle dial, although "eaten" a bit by indices, numbers, and the broad arrow- hands. Other than that, maybe not quite for my wrist, but I would definitely love to try it on, see it in real, maybe next time we see each other.. ( Think you hadn\'t with you last time). Thx fo
to me, not as compelling as the EVO 3 IMHO. A very nice example, Crown Comfort.
I must say that I would very much welcome a "Evo 4"! :) The strong character of the Laureato feels fresh still today. Yours on the tan croco looks awesome! Best Blomman
Thanks for the kind words.
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