Girard-Perregaux Laureato 8010: History, Details, and Why Collectors Love It

Often mentioned alongside its famous Genta-inspired contemporaries, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato holds a special place in watch history. The reference 8010, introduced in 1995, is particularly significant. It marked the Laureato's crucial transition from quartz back to mechanical movements, embracing traditional craftsmanship and setting the stage for the modern collection we know today. Let's dive into what makes the Laureato 8010 a sought-after neo-vintage piece.

Iconic Design Meets 90s Proportions

The Laureato 8010 retains the core design DNA established in 1975: the signature octagonal bezel atop a circular base and the seamlessly integrated bracelet. However, its 36mm case and remarkably slim 7.9mm profile perfectly capture the refined sports watch aesthetic popular in the mid-1990s, making it incredibly wearable even by today's standards.

The dial features the intricate 'Clous de Paris' hobnail pattern, adding a layer of texture and captivating light play that elevates the watch beyond a simple tool piece. Early models used tritium for lume, indicated by the 'T Swiss T' inscription below the 6 o'clock marker. This tritium often develops a beautiful, warm patina over time – a characteristic highly prized by vintage collectors for the unique character it imparts to each watch.

Limited Production and Variations

Girard-Perregaux produced the Laureato 8010 in relatively limited quantities between approximately 1995 and 2000, adding to its collectibility today:

• Stainless Steel: Approximately 700 pieces were made. Dial options included white, grey, and the particularly rare blue dial variant, of which only around 150 are estimated to exist.

• Steel and Gold Combination: This two-tone option saw slightly higher production, estimated at around 800 pieces.

• Solid Gold: The most exclusive, with roughly 250 pieces produced in precious metal.

The scarcity of the blue dial 8010 in stainless steel, combined with its striking look, has made it a particular favorite among collectors searching for this reference.

The Mechanical Heart: Caliber 3100

Powering the Laureato 8010 is the excellent in-house Caliber 3100. Developed under the guidance of then-CEO Luigi Macaluso (a trained architect himself), this ultra-thin automatic movement was key to achieving the watch's elegant dimensions and wearability. Its introduction wasn't just a technical update; it signified the Laureato's confident return to the world of traditional mechanical watchmaking.

Legacy and Collectibility

The Girard-Perregaux Laureato 8010 served as a crucial bridge between the model's quartz origins and its modern mechanical identity. Its success laid the groundwork for future iterations. Notably, in 2016, for the brand's 225th anniversary, Luigi's son Stefano Macaluso (also an architect) designed the revamped 41mm Laureato, drawing clear inspiration from the proportions and spirit of the 8010. This connection underscores the 8010's lasting influence.

Today, the Laureato 8010 is celebrated by enthusiasts for its balanced design, comfortable size, historical significance, and reliable movement. Its limited production ensures it remains a relatively uncommon find, offering a distinct alternative in the popular integrated bracelet sports watch category.