Dual Time Big Date

Perrelet expands the LAB Peripheral collection, which is now available in a fresh salmon hue. A special shade that enhances the distinctive element of the collection: the peripheral oscillating weight on the dial.

Initially, it was the classic black and silver. And then came the more modern blue and green. Now, the Maison Perrelet is presenting two new versions of the LAB Peripheral, with a salmon-coloured dial. A daring and distinctive choice of colour that reflects the current trend for modern watchmaking while also showing respect for the past. This approach is in line with the Manufacture's ongoing commitment to blending tradition with innovation.

The historical inspiration

Salmon-coloured dials were typical of the mid-20th century, the golden age of elegant wristwatches. Their colour, so unique and rich in nuances – in which the soft pink and bright orange come together, blended with lively hints of red and peach – has returned in recent times, and has become extremely fashionable thanks to the vintage inspiration that has re-emerged in recent years.

However, it is not just a matter of fashion. As the direct heirs of 1950s models, salmon-coloured dials symbolise continuity with history, which is particularly significant for long-established brands. Like Maison Perrelet, which was founded in 1777 and has built an internationally recognised reputation over time.

The distinctive aesthetics

The distinctive style of the LAB Peripheral Dual Time Big Date Salmon, is enhanced by the eye-catching salmon-coloured dial with its unique shades. It adds the complication of a second time zone with a day/night indicator positioned at 6 o’clock and features a two-window date display at 12 o’clock. This model embody the brand's excellence, summed up in the slogan ‘Luxury in Movement’, with their sophisticated mechanics and impeccable finishing.

This timepiece feature a cushion-shaped stainless-steel case measuring 42 x 42 mm. It is distinguished by its polished octagonal bezel with concave, rounded sides, and a satin-finished profile; its brushed, shaped case middle decorated with an alternating pattern of large reliefs and subtle grooves; and its polished-brushed lugs. Elements that endow this piece and the whole LAB Peripheral collection with a strong, identifiable look.

Much attention has been paid to the design of the dial, which features a special construction. Built on various levels, the central section boasts an elegant vertical stripe motif and is encircled by a satin-finished rim. These elements stand out in contrast to the rhodium-plated peripheral oscillating weight.

The hands are coated in white Super-LumiNova®, making them clearly visible in all lighting conditions. The elongated indices, which are also luminescent, are applied to the central disc and suspended towards the salmon-coloured flange, which displays the minute track. This gives the impression that the indices are floating above the dial and allows a full view of the special feature of the LAB Peripheral collection: the peripheral oscillating weight.

Exceptional devices

The Maison Perrelet is renowned worldwide for its innovations in automatic movements. This skill is derived from Abraham-Louis Perrelet, the Maître Horloger universally known for the creation of the first automatic calibre in the history of watchmaking, which was achieved precisely in 1777. Based on its founder's historic invention, the Manufacture has recently developed two exclusive technologies.

In 1995, it patented the Double Rotor, comprising two oscillating masses — one on the dial side and the other on the rear — that work together in perfect synchronisation. This mechanism provides the barrel spring with constant energy, guaranteeing faster and more efficient winding of the movement than a conventional system. In 2009, it was the turn of the Turbine: a propeller-shaped component with purely decorative functions. Placed above the dial, it reveals ever-changing themes during its rotation, generated by the movement of the wrist, creating captivating and surprising effects.

Drawing on long experience and profound know-how, Maison Perrelet developed the concept of the peripheral oscillating weight, transforming it into a unique and distinctive device. This sophisticated technical solution not only preserves the thinness of the movement due to its integration within it, but also offers a complete view of the mechanism as it avoids hiding its components and finishes. By moving it to the dial side, Perrelet keeps the case thin and allows an unobstructed view of the indications on the display.

Manufacturing mechanics

The technical innovation of the peripheral oscillating weight was made possible by the development of a state-of-the-art in-house movement. This is the P-421 calibre in which the oscillating weight, a 180° plate’s segment, is fixed to a wheel with toothing inside, which engages with a pinion on the outer rim of the movement and transmits the energy to the gear-train winding the mainspring.

It comprises 302 components, 30 jewels, a 42-hour power reserve and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).

The peripheral oscillating weight, which is mounted on ball bearings, is embellished with a screwed-on plate that is decorated with oblique stripes in relief. This decoration, which can be appreciated from the first glance at the watch, highlights the rotational motion of the oscillating weight itself when it is in action, animated by the movements of the wrist.

The movement can be admired through the sapphire crystal porthole on the case back, which is secured by six screws. This provides an unobstructed view of the regulating organ, which is surrounded by large rhodium-plated bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif and engravings in 3N gold.

The LAB Peripheral Dual Time Big Date with salmon-coloured dials is worn with an integrated stainless steel bracelet.

With the new LAB Peripheral creations, Perrelet has once again demonstrated its originality and expertise. And it has dedicated these two exclusive watches, with their unique style and innovative mechanics, to the most refined collectors and connoisseurs of high-end watchmaking.