Girard-Perregaux marks the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations existing between Switzerland and Japan with the release of two versions of the Laureato —a time and date and a chronograph. These models, celebrating the Maison’s longstanding ties with Japan, are limited to just 100 pieces each. The color of each dial is indigo blue, inspired by and paying homage to this Japanese color. Perpetuating the iconic Laureato design language, these Japan editions wonderfully showcase the extraordinary talents of the Manufacture’s craftspeople.
When Girard-Perregaux watches first emerged on the Japanese market, the country did not use the same timekeeping system as Europe, hence Swiss watches were viewed as curiosities. However, in 1873, as Japan commenced building a railway network, the nation adopted a Western time measurement system. This provided a great opportunity for François and led to a significant rise in Swiss watch exports.
Over the years, François traveled extensively throughout Asia; however, he would always return to Japan, his adopted home. A pioneer and maverick, François Perregaux was instrumental in forging close ties between the Maison and Japan, a relationship that continues to endure today, almost 165 years since the son of La Chaux-de-Fonds arrived in Yokohama. The Manufacture has maintained a strong retail presence in the country and has crafted several Japan-only limited editions. For example, in 2019, Girard-Perregaux released the vintage 1945 Japan edition, a watch featuring similar blue tones on a white dial which proved popular and prompted favourable feedback from admirers of the Manufacture.
In recognition of its special relationship, the Swiss Manufacture has chosen to craft two limited edition models, exclusively for Nippon. Both models, a Laureato 42 mm with a blue Grand Feu enamel dial and a Laureato Chronograph 42 mm Titanium featuring a Clous de Paris pattern, are dressed in a distinctive shade of indigo blue and limited to 100 pieces each. Among the many traditional colors, the Maison chose indigo blue, termed ‘Aiiro’, for its historical significance in Japan. Production of Aiiro dye, extracted from the Japanese indigo plant —Periscaria tinctoria—, is believed to have been prevalent during the 16th century and is often associated with samurai warriors who considered the hue as a ‘winning color’. When English chemist, Robert Atkinson (1850-1929) arrived in Japan in 1874, he was amazed to see the widespread use of the bewitching hue and described the color as ‘Japan blue’, a shade that is celebrated with these latest GP models.
Both models are presented on integrated bracelets, proffering stylish elegance coupled with superb wearer comfort. Each limited edition, engraved with the inscription ‘Special Edition of 100 pieces’, serves as a fitting tribute to the special relationship between two nations that share a remarkable history.
The Laureato Japan ‘Aiiro’ editions will go on sale in October and will be available in a selection of authorized dealers in Japan.