As Girard-Perregaux approaches a milestone birthday, it marks the 49th anniversary of its iconic timepiece with the launch of the Laureato Chronograph Ti49.
This new model combines the signature intricately-shaped case design of the Laureato with highly coveted Grade 5 titanium, marking the alloy's debut on a classic Laureato reference.
Orphaned in his youth, Jean-François Bautte (1772-1837) matured swiftly, undertaking an early apprenticeship that delved deep into the intricacies of watchmaking, along with associated crafts like case assembly, guilloché, and goldsmithery.
By 1791, at a mere 19 years old, Bautte left his mark in Geneva, etching his name into the annals of Swiss horology. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for Girard-Perregaux, the revered Maison headquartered in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Coinciding with Bautte's early achievements, 1791 also witnessed an English clergyman, William Gregor (1761-1817), stumbling upon titanium in Cornwall, England. From the depths of the Manaccan Valley emerged this newfound metal, initially dubbed 'manaccanite' by Gregor before adopting the illustrious name of 'titanium', paying homage to Greek mythology titans.
Despite the geographical chasm separating Bautte's Geneva and Gregor's Cornwall, both visionaries shared an insatiable curiosity, a drive to innovate, and a thirst for knowledge.
Enter Grade 5 titanium: a titan among metals. Derived through various refining processes, Grade 5 titanium, also known as titanium alloy 6-4, was born in 1951 under the watchful eye of Professor Stan Abkowitz.
Composed predominantly of titanium with traces of aluminium, vanadium, iron, and oxygen, this alloy boasts a plethora of desirable traits, from its lightweight and robust nature to its corrosion resistance and hypoallergenic properties. Its versatility has found application across diverse industries, including watchmaking.
For Girard-Perregaux, Grade 5 titanium is a canvas for brilliance, epitomized in their latest creation, the Laureato Chronograph Ti49. With its gleaming polish and impeccable craftsmanship, this timepiece celebrates the enduring allure of titanium, showcasing its unparalleled blend of strength, sophistication, and style.