At this year’s SIHH 2018 there were quite a few new Audemars Piguet releases. But, most of the models ushered out were variations on their “Royal Oak” collection. Here we focus in on their “Royal Oak Tourbillon Extra-Thin Tapisserie Evolutive” debut.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
We had already reviewed the diamond-studded “Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon” which you can get a better glance at here. As well as the “Royal Oak RD#2 Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin” (Ref#: 26586PT.OO.1240.PT.01) a record setting watch, now known as the thinnest “perpetual calendar” equipped watch, which you can read more about here.
“Royal Oak RD#2 Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin” (Ref#: 26586PT.OO.1240.PT.01)
But, today we circle back to focus on the slightly thicker SIHH 2018 release, yet equally thinner than most watches, the Audemars Piguet “Extra-Thin” model. This timepiece was originally released back in 2012, as part of the Royal Oak 40th anniversary celebrations. Now, it returns available in three distinct precious metal casings and a novel design pattern for the dial. The “tappiserie” has evolved into a splendid sunburt ”Evolution” pattern.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
So, the 41mm case can be had in either: stainless-steel, 18k rose gold or platinum; all with a transparent case back that allows to view the inner workings of the mechanical movement. Mounted to the case is the classic Gérald Genta design with the iconic hexagonal bezel with exposed screws.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
But, the platinum version has its bezel set with baguette-cut gradated blue sapphires for a more exuberant and eye-fetching look. There is a small power reserve indicator on each versions case back. All topped by a glareproofed sapphire crystal that also assists with water-resistance on this watch reaching up to 50 meters (164 feet).
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
The dial is available in either: blue, purple (which AP is calling “plum” colored) or smoked blue, all with a “petite tapisserie” motif dial with the applied hour index markers matching the metal on each corresponding case. The standard “Royal Oak” hands are also made to match the metal case of each version. But, most importantly is the “tapisserie” design on this new version that has evolved into a splendid sunburst “Evolutive” pattern. It creates a distinctive effect as the small squares on the dial grow in size as they move outwards.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
Another visible mark is the Audemars Piguet logo that can be seem in white on the upper-half portion of the dial. While the defining and alluring tourbillon movement can be seen at the 6 o’clock position, with some other gear components visible thru this circular cutout. The central hands and hour index markers have all been fitted with a luminescent filling, for an enhanced legibility.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon Extra-Thin Tapisserie Evolutive
This “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon Extra-Thin Tapisserie Evolutive” (References Below) is powered by a hand-wound mechanical movement, caliber AP 2924 with 25 jewels, 261 parts and 21,600 Vph. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 70 hours, when fully wound.
Image courtesy of: Audemars Piguet
Mounted to the watch is an Audemars Piguet bracelet matching the casing of each version, secured to the wrist by an equally case matching folding deployment clasp. These watches will become available starting at the beginning of April 2018, for more up to date information visit the official Audemars Piguet website here.
Ref#: 26522ST.OO.1220ST.01 – stainless steel
Ref#: 26522OR.OO.1220OR.01 – 18k Rose Gold
Ref#: 26521PT.YY.1220PT.01 – Platinum
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Audemars Piguet, Royal Oak, Tourbillon, Extra-Thin, Tapisserie, Evolutive, Luxury Watches
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