Today sees a newcomer to the salmon-dial watch parade with the all-new Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit.
A favourite colour for limited-edition dials, salmon has become quite a trend in recent years. Referring to a whole range of shades rather than a specific colour reference, the hue has been around since the 1930s, but never has it been so ubiquitous.
Last year saw brands as diverse as Patek Philippe and Oris introduce models with salmon dials, the former opting for a rose-gold tint, the latter giving an orangey-pink interpretation. Elsewhere, Rolex, Breguet, FP Journe, Cartier and A. Lange & Söhne have also dipped their toes into the salmon pool.
Unsurprisingly, considering its association with haute horlogerie brands, Laurent Ferrier has released several models in the tone before. And now, it is the turn of the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit.
Released today, the grade 5 titanium watch features a 44mm case and integrated bracelet. The smoky-charcoal colour of the metal, given alternating satin and mirror finishes, is the perfect frame for the graduated, opaline, salmon dial - its colours shimmering with a warm glow.
The launch press release tells us how the peachy-pink shade was inspired by a shared experience of brand founders Laurent Ferrier and François Servanin. While driving on the 24 Hours of Le Mans track at dawn, the glow of the rising sun created what they refer to as “an extraordinary ballet of light”.
Against the golden face are applique teardrop indices and Assegai-shaped hands executed in ruthenium-coated white gold treated with white Super-LumiNova.
Atop the case is a cushion-shaped bezel with a circular satin-brushed finish that continues vertically into the three-link bracelet.
Powering the watch is the in-house LF619.01 calibre. The impeccable finishing includes horizontal satin-brushing and ruthenium coating, plus mirror polishing and 30 hand-crafted internal angles. Chronometer-certified by the Besançon Observatory, the movement boasts a double balance-spring tourbillon that is visible through the exhibition caseback.
True to its sporty moniker, the watch is water resistant to 100 metres. It will retail for CHF 175,000 + taxes.
