An independent watchmaker that set out on reviving classic watchmaking, Laurent Ferrier is well-known for its beautiful movement construction and impeccable finishing. Recently, the brand has ventured into the luxury sports watch arena. The latest from the brand is the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit, a cushion-cased wristwatch that combines the very modern and very classic, with updates that include a “salmon” dial and an all-titanium construction.

The Low-Down

In 2019, Laurent Ferrier introduced the Grand Sport Tourbilllon, the brand’s first-ever sports watch, which serves as the foundation for the present model. The Grand Sport was originally launched with a strap, but was later followed up with steel and gold bracelet options.

The Grand Sport Tourbillon now debuts in titanium for the first time, a modern treatment appropriate for its substantial 44 mm case, as it reduces weight and improves wearability. The dial pays homage to the brand’s classical roots with a “salmon” finish, which is given a playful twist with a gradient finish.

Despite its rugged appearance, the Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit houses a wonderful, traditional tourbillon movement, the LF619.01, developed with the assistance of La Fabrique du Temps, a specialist owned by Louis Vuitton. This movement boasts both beautiful construction and meticulous finishing, with features such as a linear winding click spring reminiscent of vintage watches, and bridges with wide, polished bevels, though it is treated with ruthenium to achieve a sleek, modern appearance.

Notably, the movement is equipped with a double-hairspring system, which is designed to improve accuracy. The system is composed of two hairsprings positioned in opposite directions, which work together to counteract the variations caused by uneven expansion and contraction of the hairsprings, resulting in a more stable movement of the balance wheel. Created by Precision Engineering, the sister company of H. Moser & Cie., the double hairspring adds an exotic touch to the watch that is sure to appeal to technically-minded collectors.

IMHO

The Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit offers a contrasting blend of watchmaking styles that will speak to a select group of collectors, as reflected in its price point. Its large case size and integrated bracelet might give off a sense of maximalism, but the hidden tourbillon and impeccable finishing reveal the watch’s understanding of serious watchmaking.

For those who appreciate a mix of varied flavours in their watches, the latest Grand Sport Tourbillon is a strong contender, thanks to high-quality execution inside and out and improved styling. Though the “salmon” dial and titanium case enhance the contrast, they surprisingly complement each other harmoniously, making the watch more appealing than any previous Grand Sport Tourbillon models.

Tech Specs

Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit

Movement: LF619.01; manual; power reserve 80 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Case: 44 mm x 13.4 mm; titanium; water resistant to 100 m
Strap: Titanium bracelet with folding clasp
Availability: 15 pieces per year