Fifty years ago, the world of horology shifted on its axis when Girard-Perregaux unveiled the Laureato, a timepiece that would mark a major chapter in the history of contemporary watchmaking. It was 1975, a time of bold silhouettes and changing definitions of elegance, and this timepiece arrived not as a reaction to the era's trends but as a definitive trendsetter in its own right. Now, in October 2025, the Maison celebrates its half-century with a release that feels less like a reissue and more like a manifesto of enduring style. The new Laureato Fifty is a limited edition of just 200 pieces that pays vibrant tribute to the past while projecting the brand firmly into the future.

The design philosophy of the Laureato has always favored precision and balance over the aggressive angles of its contemporaries. Housed in a refined 39mm case that sits a slender 9.8mm against the wrist, the Laureato Fifty explores the nobility of contrasting materials through a stunning marriage of steel and 3N yellow gold. This bicolor combination evokes the glamour of the original 1975 model yet possesses a sharpened contemporary edge. The famous tonneau case has been reworked with pronounced bevels to allow for an even smoother integration of the bracelet, creating a fluid architectural silhouette. Light plays across the iconic octagonal bezel which alternates between satin and polished finishes in a display of sophisticated craftsmanship.

Beneath the flat anti-reflective sapphire crystal lies a deep sunray grey dial decorated with a meticulous Clous de Paris pattern. This textured surface is elevated by gold indexes and hands that match the case to create a visual harmony that speaks to absolute respect for the codes of Haute Horlogerie. The central seconds hand is balanced by a counterweight shaped like a double arrow, a subtle nod to the Girard-Perregaux emblem. Even the date display at 3 o'clock is presented on a disc that matches the dial color, proving that true luxury is defined by an obsession with detail.

The integration of the bracelet remains a masterclass in both ergonomics and aesthetics. The steel H-links taper gracefully toward the clasp while the slightly domed yellow gold central links add a layer of volumetric complexity that plays with the light. It is as comfortable as it is beautiful, featuring a hidden fine adjustment system that allows the bracelet to be precisely loosened or tightened by 4mm which is a functional necessity for balmy days.

While the exterior is a tribute to seventies design, the interior is a marvel of modern engineering. The transparent sapphire case-back reveals the new Calibre GP4800, a movement that is the fruit of several years of development. This automatic mechanism features a silicon escapement and a variable inertia balance to ensure longevity and energy efficiency. The oscillating weight is particularly noteworthy as its construction draws inspiration from the legendary Three Bridges that have become the historic signature of Girard-Perregaux.

Since 1975, the Laureato has survived the decades without ever going out of fashion because it remains faithful to the idea of luxury without ostentation. This anniversary edition serves as a bridge between heritage and innovation for a company that has been a manufacture of movements since 1791. Available from October 2025, the Laureato Fifty confirms that true style makes its statement through discretion, precision, and an undeniable legacy.