Dubai, UAE – Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, the leading luxury watch and jewellery retailer in the UAE, is pleased to unveil the Laureato Chronograph Endless Skyline UAE Edition, an exclusive collaboration with independent watch Manufacture, Girard-Perregaux. Building on the success of the iconic Laureato model, that burst onto the watch scene back in 1975, the new UAE special edition showcases a dial that mixes light blue accents with dark counters, indexes, and hands.
Laureato, a masterful union of shapes since 1975
In 1975, Girard-Perregaux released a groundbreaking watch equipped with what was considered at the time a cutting-edge movement, the aptly named ‘Quartz Chronometer’. Completely developed in-house from the beginning, as was its design, the model immediately proved popular, especially in style-conscious Italy, one of the Maison’s most important markets at the time. Watch collectors in this country began referring to the model as the ‘the graduate (Laureato in Italian) of the school of Girard-Perregaux’. This affectionate name served as an acknowledgement of the model’s prize-winning success and extraordinary precision. Ultimately, the name was adopted by the Maison and has since become familiar to legions of watch aficionados.
From the outset, the design of the Laureato united a number of different shapes to form a distinctive, yet cohesive, look. Each Laureato comprises an octagonal bezel that sits atop a circular plinth which in turn is positioned above an angular tonneau-shaped case. But despite having geometric, clean-cut lines, the Laureato’s case also has a gentle character, reminiscent of a rock shaped by nature and devoid of harshness. Throughout the composition there is an exquisite interplay between polished and satin finished surfaces. Both finishes are clearly defined and discrete from one another, thereby optimising the effect. Lastly, the exterior is completed with an integrated bracelet that ergonomically hugs the wearer’s wrist, bestowing a comfortable fit. It is this assemblage of contrasting forms that has led to the Laureato’s unique profile, making it instantly recognisable when viewed from afar.
A special edition for a special partnership
The Laureato Chronograph Endless Skyline UAE Edition boasts a sophisticated chronograph movement, housed in a robust yet elegant case made out of 904L steel, a steel alloy showcasing stronger resistance to corrosion and a high sheen once polished. These properties make the watch the perfect companion for daily wear, sporting activities, and outdoor environments.
The distinctive blue dial of the timepiece is enriched with a Clous de Paris motif. This classical pattern, composed of multiple pyramidal structures, imbues the dial with a three-dimensional appearance. While the dial appears light blue from certain angles, its hue can vary from bright to dark blue depending on the lighting, granting the piece a radiant and dynamic charm.
Commenting on the collaboration, Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi, Chief Commercial Officer of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, said: “Our partnership with Girard-Perregaux is a celebration of the nation’s heritage and forward-looking vision. The Laureato Chronograph Endless Skyline UAE Edition pays tribute to the evolution of the UAE and its transformative journey over the years. Featuring a dial with beautiful blue accents and craftsmanship, in line with the Maison’s unique ethos and aesthetic, the timepiece includes all Hindi numerals for the first time on the Chronograph edition. We look forward to our ongoing partnership, as we collectively continue to break the boundaries for horology in the region.”
Girard-Perregaux’s CEO, Patrick Pruniaux, also echoed the special partnership between both parties: “Our collaboration embodies shared values rooted in a rich heritage and a mutual passion for fine Haute Horlogerie, exemplifying our commitment to excellence. Together, we look forward to continue developing Girard-Perregaux in the vibrant landscape of the UAE.”
The watch carries the traditional and iconic Laureato characteristics, however, the new colour brings an element of freshness and evolution to the overall finished look, finding the right balance between style and legibility.
In the Maison’s search to perfectly blend an iconic design with contemporary flairs, the Laureato Chronograph Endless Skyline UAE Edition mirrors the nation’s journey through time, where historic and traditional wind towers blend in with the iconic towering skyscrapers. It also pays homage to the continued trust and partnership between Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and the Swiss Maison.
The Laureato Chronograph Endless Skyline UAE Edition is limited to 100 pieces only and is now available at select Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons boutiques across the UAE.
