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INTRODUCING: Laurent Ferrier cuts weight with the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit

INTRODUCING: Laurent Ferrier cuts weight with the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit

Ricardo Sime
  • Laurent Ferrier gives us a fourth iteration of the Grand Sport Tourbillon
  • After the rich-boy flex of the Golden Brown, the reference returns to its sporty roots with a titanium case and bracelet
  • The icing on top? A beautiful gradient salmon dial

When Laurent Ferrier released the first Grand Sport Tourbillon, it stood out. In a sea of same, it managed to bring more to the integrated-bracelet table than it took away. All while making sure the brand’s design ethos survived the trip. From there, the Grand Sport took a quick stop in blue dial land. Then last year, we were rewarded with the lustrous Grand Sport Tourbillon Golden Brown, its gold case truly elevating the design. But now, for the next addition to the grand sport collection, the brand has decided to finally use that sporty material many of us love; titanium. Say hello to the new Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit.

For years now, we’ve been getting a stainless-steel tank in the 44mm Grand Sport. The Golden Brown, though beautiful, added a few more grams when taking into account the weight of gold. But now, this new brushed and polished Grade 5 Titanium case and bracelet mean we get all the beauty of Laurent Ferrier’s finishing without the heft. Add to that the 100 metres of water resistance and the Sport Tourbillon immediately makes a strong case as a high-end sports watch.

Moving in from the case, we’re met with another first for the Grand Sport collection, a gradient pink (salmon) dial that’s modelled after the dawn at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as experienced by the founders of Laurent Ferrier. Though the marking, hands and subdial are styled identically to the Grand Sports of the past, this dial manages to stand out. My explanation for this lies with how the smoky grey colour of the titanium pairs well with the dial colour. It somehow manages to elevate it, while its opaline finish means the pink isn’t overpowering, still giving us a sense of sportiness.

Powering this beaut is Laurent Ferrier’s LF619.01 movement. A manual-wound tourbillon movement best viewed through the sapphire crystal caseback of the Tourbillon Pursuit. The brand has used it in other references. Yet here the darker finish of the plates, with the golden gears and barrel lead to a more appealing appearance.

In terms of numbers, we’re looking at a movement that runs at 3Hz (21600 vph). And the power reserve comes in at a lengthy 80 hours.

Securing all of this to your wrist is an integrated, titanium bracelet. The Grand Sport bracelets are always a treat as they hug the wrist well and have a noticeable taper from case to clasp. That butterfly clasp doesn’t interfere with the pattern of the bracelet, adding to the integrated design.

Overall, the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit is a welcome addition to the collection. The use of titanium brings emphasis back to the sporty aspect of these offerings. Then you look at the finishing, especially the mirror polishing that reflects the onion crown, and the high-level craftsmanship immediately becomes apparent. Finally, you have the hidden tourbillon. What would be considered a missed opportunity for most brands, this instead reiterates the absolute confidence Laurent Ferrier has in their designs.

It’s a confidence I find refreshing and one I hope Laurent Ferrier never loses.

Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit pricing and availability:

The Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon is limited to 15 pieces. It is available now and if you are interested, you can inquire directly with the brand. Price: CHF 175,000

Brand Laurent Ferrier
Model Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit
Case Diameter 44mm (D) x 13.4mm (T)
Case Material Grade 5 titanium
Water Resistance 100m
Dial Gradient Pink
Crystal Sapphire crystal and sapphire exhibition caseback
Strap Titanium integrated bracelet
Movement LF619.01 Tourbillon
Power Reserve 80 hours
Functions Hours, minutes, seconds, tourbillon
Availability Now (Limited to 15)
Price CHF 175,000