Vacheron Constantin 222 vs. GP Laureato 8010 Comparison

this_hobby_of_hours · 2024-07-20T14:08:49Z

Could the Girard-Perregaux Laureato 8010 and 8017 follow the VC 222's market surge? Explore the potential for these neo-vintage references ahead of the Laureato's 50th anniversary.

this_hobby_of_hours

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

23 replies4192 views6 photos

In a compelling analysis, 'this_hobby_of_hours' explores whether the recent surge in interest for the Vacheron Constantin 222, following its re-edition, could foreshadow a similar trajectory for the Girard-Perregaux Laureato 8010 and 8017. This discussion is particularly timely as the Laureato approaches its 50th anniversary, prompting a re-evaluation of these 'forgotten' neo-vintage mechanical references and their potential for renewed collector appreciation.

Friends,

I read this interesting post on Instagram on the VC 222 by the respected folks at Hairspring. With the relaunch of the heritage 222 in full gold, we also saw a massive amount of interest in the original 222.

Could we see a similar phenomenon happen with the GP Laureato 8010(1995) ? Or even the Laureato-Olimpico chronograph ref 8017 (1996) … both of which were the first mechanical Laureatos to be made.

Certainly we know that very few of these pieces were made for a couple of short years and then largely “forgotten” by the mainstream collecting community.

Next year is the 50th anniversary of the Laureato and I hope to see much greater awareness of the heritage of the Laureato and other GP neo-vintage pieces by the collecting community.

Let’s see …

As always, your questions and comments are welcome.

Watch, Vacheron Constantin, Historiques, Historiques 222

🤝

This message has been edited by India Whiskey Charlie on 2024-07-20 14:44:33 This message has been edited by patrick_y on 2024-07-20 17:00:19

Key Points from the Discussion

The Laureato 8010 and 8017 are considered 'sleepers' due to their historical significance as the first mechanical Laureatos, their limited production (only 700 pieces in full steel for the 8010), and their current undervaluation compared to their intrinsic quality and heritage.
Despite GP's high horology pedigree and technical prowess, its brand value and prestige do not currently match VC's, largely due to past management and distribution strategy shortcomings, rather than the quality of the watches themselves.
Mainstream collector interest is often driven by influencers and price momentum, rather than fundamental value. The original VC 222 also saw relatively modest auction prices before its recent surge, suggesting a similar dynamic could play out for the Laureato.
A significant challenge for the Laureato's recognition is the lack of readily available historical archives and a weak heritage department at GP, making it difficult to research and promote its legacy.
The upcoming 50th anniversary of the Laureato, coupled with potential social media influencer engagement, is anticipated to significantly increase awareness and demand for the 8010 and 8017 references.
While the GP movement is often superior to some competitors like the Chopard Alpine Eagle, it may not surpass ultra-thin movements such as the Bulgari Octo Finissimo BVL 138. The Laureato's wrist presence is also a subjective factor for some collectors.

The Discussion

ArmisT

Jul 20, 2024

Especially given the opportunity to obtain previous pieces at great value, I’m eager to see a revival next year.

this_hobby_of_hours

Jul 20, 2024

Well said. This brand (GP) is a bit whacky … they have such an amazing history and they do such a shitty job in making it all clear to collectors. 😄 🤝

patrick_y

Jul 20, 2024

To me, the Laureato just never looked great on my wrist. However, I do feel that the movement is much better than many other equivalent models - as the GP movement is higher end than the Chopard Alpine Eagle movement. But not necessarily higher end overall than the Bulgari Octo Finissimo BVL 138 ultra thin movement. I do like the Vacheron Constantin 222 a lot. People tend to go for the top end stuff. The middle-end is a no-man's land sometime. Vacheron Constantin is a top-end brand and will like

gary_g

Jul 20, 2024

VC was already hot with overseas. So releasing 222 was at the peak of the watch craze was very smart. GP, with all due respect, is not on the same level and doesn’t have the pedigree or the demand. Just IMHO.

Aquaracer1

Jul 21, 2024

What would you like to see and or anticipate Marc?

KMII

Jul 21, 2024

But the vintage 222s have had a massive rise in market value already years before the reissue 222 was released - not sure the same dynamics apply to the Laureato 🤷🏻‍♂️

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Vacheron Constantin 222 vs. GP Laureato 8010 Comparison

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