Every great watch has a story, and the Laurent Ferrier Sport Auto 79 is no exception. Its roots trace back to 1979, when founders Laurent Ferrier, François Servanin, and François Trisconi finished third overall in the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours race. That podium finish, a triumph of friendship, courage, and endurance, planted the seeds of a watchmaking journey defined by tradition, elegance, and passion. Today, the Sport Auto 79 celebrates that historic achievement while showcasing the brand’s signature craftsmanship.
The new edition is a study in exquisite discretion. Its cream-coloured dial, with a soft opaline finish, evokes the humility of its founders – a subtle nod to a third-place victory that would forever shape their destiny. This understated elegance is contrasted by a full 5N red gold case and bracelet, a symbol of the precious nature of their accomplishment and the courage to pursue dreams. Each hand and index is accented with white Super-LumiNova®, ensuring optimal legibility, while the snailed small-second dial at six o’clock adds a refined touch of functionality.
Streamlined elegance defines the Sport Auto 79. Inspired by the aerodynamics of racing cars, the 41.5 mm tonneau-shaped case features rounded curves and sinuous lines, complemented by an integrated 5N red gold bracelet. The case showcases a harmonious interplay of finishes, namely circular satin-brushed bezel, vertical satin-brushed case middle, and mirror-polished accents, which enhances both form and functionality. Even the iconic ball-shaped screw-down crown, essential for the automatic movement, reflects the thoughtful balance of design and usability. Water-resistant to 120 metres, this is a watch built for everyday adventure as much as for celebration.
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At the heart of the Sport Auto 79 beats the LF270.01 automatic calibre, featuring a micro-rotor and natural escapement. Assembled and decorated in Laurent Ferrier’s Geneva workshops, this movement demonstrates the brand’s devotion to hand-finishing. Every component, from the platinum oscillating weight to the meticulously bevelled bridges, embodies mechanical artistry. Subtle nods to the 1979 Le Mans race are laser-engraved on the micro-rotor, visible to those who know how to appreciate the finest details.
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The Sport Auto 79 is more than a commemorative piece. It is a celebration of bold vision and perseverance, a reminder that every personal triumph, whether on the racetrack or in life, deserves recognition. Through its design, craftsmanship, and historical resonance, this timepiece invites wearers to honour their passions, embrace challenges, and cross their own finish lines.
For connoisseurs of fine watchmaking, the Sport Auto 79 is a rare blend of heritage, elegance, and technical mastery – a reward not just for racing legends, but for anyone driven by ambition and the pursuit of excellence.
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