Girard-Perregaux and Aston Martin, two entities renowned for their dedication to performance and innovation, combine their expertise in the realm of Formula 1 racing and horology. The result of this collaboration is the Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition, a watch that blends racing-inspired aesthetics with a high-performance, in-house manufactured movement. This timepiece is unveiled as Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for both the motorsport and watchmaking worlds.
The design of the Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition immediately conveys its connection to the world of high-speed racing. The dial is presented in Aston Martin Racing Green, a color deeply associated with the British automotive marque's racing heritage. This vibrant green serves as a backdrop for the watch's various functions, all designed for clarity and legibility. The hour and minute hands are partially openworked, a design element inspired by the front grille commonly found on Aston Martin road cars, such as the iconic DB12. These hands, along with the applied hour markers, are treated with luminescent material, providing a bright glow in low-light conditions. Pops of lime green, mirroring the color accents found on the Aston Martin Formula One car, are applied to the central seconds hand and the date display, adding a dynamic touch to the overall design.
Courtesy of Girard-Perregaux
The case of the Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition, is constructed from Grade 5 titanium, a material favored for its lightweight nature, strength, corrosion resistance, non-magnetic properties, and hypoallergenic qualities. These characteristics are particularly advantageous in watchmaking, ensuring durability and comfort on the wrist. The 44mm titanium case is sandblasted, providing a subtle texture that enhances its visual appeal and tactile experience. This robust case construction is capable of withstanding water pressure up to 300 meters, demonstrating the watch's readiness for any adventure.
Complementing the case is a green FKM rubber strap with a fabric-effect finish. FKM rubber is chosen for its superior flexibility, resistance to fading, and enhanced wear resistance compared to traditional rubber. This ensures the strap remains comfortable and maintains its appearance even with regular use. The strap is secured with a titanium folding clasp that features a micro-adjustment system. This allows the wearer to fine-tune the fit, ensuring optimal comfort and security on the wrist.
The design of the Laureato case is a defining characteristic of the collection, expertly combining contrasting shapes to create a visually striking and cohesive whole. The Aston Martin Racing Green dial features lime and white accents, providing a sporty and dynamic aesthetic. The caseback is engraved with the iconic Aston Martin emblem, a nod to the partnership between the two brands. The Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition's practicality is further enhanced by its clear, easy-to-read dial and substantial 300-meter water resistance.
Courtesy of Girard-Perregaux
Beneath the solid caseback, the heart of the Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition is the in-house manufactured GP03300 calibre. This self-winding movement, meticulously crafted at Girard-Perregaux's production facility in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, is specifically designed to fit the Laureato case. The movement's oscillating weight is adorned with a circular Côtes de Genève motif, a traditional decorative technique. Other refined details include straight Côtes de Genève on the bridges, beveling, mirror-polished screws, circular graining on the main plate, and engraved gilded text. Each of these finishes reflects Girard-Perregaux's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.
The GP03300 calibre is a self-winding mechanical movement that beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). It comprises 419 individual parts, including 63 jewels. The oscillating weight, made of heavy metal, winds the movement in a clockwise direction. With a fully wound mainspring, the watch offers a power reserve of at least 46 hours. The movement powers the central seconds hand, date display, hours, and minutes.
The Laureato collection has a distinguished history dating back to the 1970s. During this era, several high-end watchmakers introduced elegant steel watches with integrated steel bracelets. However,
Girard-Perregaux distinguished itself by being the only Manufacture to design and develop its elegant steel watch entirely in-house. From its inception, the Laureato has always been powered by an in-house movement. This approach gave Girard-Perregaux complete creative control, allowing them to design a watch without compromises.
Courtesy of Girard-Perregaux
Girard-Perregaux's holistic approach to watch design, encompassing the dial, case, and movement, sets it apart from many other watch companies. This approach, which the brand has followed since 1867, is exemplified by Constant Girard's legendary Tourbillon with Three Bridges. Throughout the years, the Laureato has undergone various evolutions, incorporating different dial colors, case materials, and complications.
The Laureato's history of innovation extends beyond its initial design. Girard-Perregaux has consistently sought to push the boundaries of horological craftsmanship, earning over one hundred patents for original designs. Among these is the movement with three arrow-shaped bridges, registered in 1884, a design that remains a signature element of the brand. Girard-Perregaux's dedication to excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious 'Aiguille d'Or' in 2013 and the Gold Medal at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1889.
Aston Martin, with a rich heritage dating back to 1913 and founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, boasts a long and illustrious history in racing. The brand achieved early success at the Aston Hill Climb, inspiring a tradition of creating high-performance luxury vehicles. Today, Aston Martin's lineup includes models like the DB12, Vantage, Vanquish, DBX707, and the F1-inspired Aston Martin Valkyrie. After debuting in Grand Prix racing in 1922 and winning at Le Mans in 1959, Aston Martin returned to Formula One in 2021 under the leadership of Lawrence Stroll.
Courtesy of Girard-Perregaux
The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team has made significant investments in recent years, including the opening of the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone in 2023. This state-of-the-art facility features sustainable design elements and a cutting-edge wind tunnel scheduled to be operational in 2025. On the track, the team's driver lineup includes Canadian Lance Stroll and two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso. They are supported by a team of test and reserve drivers, as well as a team ambassador and a young development driver. Aston Martin Aramco also participates in the all-female F1® Academy series.
Off the track, Aston Martin Aramco is dedicated to driving progress through its I / AM fan engagement platform and its Make A Mark ESG program. These initiatives focus on sustainability, inclusion, and community engagement. The team's partnerships with various organizations support inclusivity, accessibility, and leadership development. Additionally, Aston Martin Aramco's commitment to energy efficiency is certified by ISO 50001 compliance.
Girard-Perregaux, established in 1791, is a pioneer in the world of Haute Horlogerie. Located in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, it is an independent Manufacture that has maintained this status for over two centuries. The company has successfully kept all production in-house, preserving and passing down exceptional horological skills through generations. This dedication to craftsmanship, combined with a passion for beauty and the art of watchmaking, has enabled Girard-Perregaux to consistently innovate.
Courtesy of Girard-Perregaux
The Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition, is more than a collaboration; it is a convergence of two histories marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. It represents a harmonious blend of automotive-inspired design and horological expertise, resulting in a timepiece that is both visually captivating and technically impressive. This latest iteration of the Laureato, created in partnership with Aston Martin, is a testament to the enduring legacy of both brands.
The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition is a limited edition timepiece, with only 88 pieces available worldwide. Each watch is engraved with the inscription "One of 88." It is priced at USD 14,300, and will go on sale on March 20, 2025. The Laureato Absolute Aston Martin F1® Edition serves as a potent symbol of a partnership where shared values, a commitment to innovation, and a passion for performance take center stage.
Case: 44mm diameter, 14.65mm thickness. Material: titanium. Secured by 6 screws, engraved with Aston-Martin logo. Water resistance: 300m.
Movement: Calibre GP03300. Self-winding mechanical, clockwise winding direction. Total Diameter: 25.95 mm (11 '''). Height: 6.50 mm. Frequency: 28,800 Vib/h – (4 Hz). 419 Parts, 63 Jewels. Oscillating weight: heavy metal. Power Reserve: min. 46h. Functions: Centre seconds, date, hours and minutes.
Dial: Aston-Martin Green, indexes with luminescent material.
Strap: Rubber material. Titanium buckle, folding with micro adjustment system.
Price: USD 14,300
Reference Number: 81070-21-3405-1CX
Notes: Limited Edition of 88 Timepieces. Collaboration between Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team and Girard-Perregaux. Incorporates a racing-inspired green dial.