Introducing a Stunning Trio of New Perpetual Calendars and an Innovative Openworked Version of Audemars Piguet’s Latest Perpetual Calendar Movement
Get ready to be captivated by the latest offerings from Audemars Piguet, which feature a remarkable openworked Caliber 7139 that makes its debut in both the Code 11.59 and Royal Oak lines. Additionally, the non-openworked Royal Oak has been refreshed with a striking new edition crafted in blue ceramic.
What You Should Know
Last year marked a significant milestone for Audemars Piguet as they celebrated their 150th Anniversary. During my visit to their headquarters in Le Brassus, the team unveiled the groundbreaking Caliber 7138, which signified a comprehensive redesign of their renowned Quantieme Perpetual movement. This new movement allows users to adjust every indication simply using the crown, making it remarkably user-friendly. Interestingly, the brand opted not to retire the previous skeletonized version of the movement just yet; instead, they released a special “farewell” model—the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "150th Anniversary" limited edition—simultaneously with the launch of the new caliber.
Fast forward to this year, and it's only fitting that we now see the openworked versions of the corrector-free perpetual calendar movements, thanks to the introduction of the Caliber 7139, available in two stunning 41mm models. The first is the Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar Openworked, reference 26443NB.OO.D002CR.01. This timepiece showcases a striking two-tone aesthetic made from 18K white gold and black ceramic. The black ceramic midcase is elegantly framed by the white gold bezel and caseback, complemented by a matching black ceramic crown. The dial embraces this bold black-and-white theme with a sapphire surface, featuring a smoked minutes track, smoky subdial rings, and a black inner bezel displaying the 52-week indication. The moonphase is beautifully set against a backdrop of black aventurine, while the subdial hands are highlighted with bright red tips for enhanced readability.
The second model, the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked, reference 26685XT.OO.1320XT.01, is encased in titanium and Bulk Metallic Glass. Similar to last year's farewell model, this piece features a titanium case paired with a polished BMG bezel and bracelet studs, creating a subtle two-tone effect. Just like the Code 11.59, this Royal Oak also has a black rehaut that holds the 52-week indications, along with a smoked sapphire minutes track and outer subdial registers that improve legibility for the printed text on the perpetual calendar. However, this model distinguishes itself with four registers encircled in pink gold, complete with pink gold applied indices and hands. The moonphase displays photorealistic moons adorned with a warm rosy hue, set against a backdrop of blue aventurine.
While the Cal. 7139 certainly steals the spotlight with its innovative design, the standard Cal. 7138 also deserves attention this month, particularly with the launch of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" ceramic, reference 26674CD.OO.1225CD.01. This marks the first ceramic Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar to incorporate this new generation of movements, continuing the brand's rollout of its updated blue ceramic shade. Featuring a matching blue grande tapisserie dial and inner bezel, this model truly embraces the blue theme.
In terms of pricing, the Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar Openworked (ref. 26443NB.OO.D002CR.01) comes with a price tag of CHF 118,000, while the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked (ref. 26685XT.OO.1320XT.01) is priced at CHF 180,300. The non-openworked Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in blue ceramic (ref. 26674CD.OO.1225CD.01) is available for CHF 133,900.
Our Thoughts
The three perpetual calendar models unveiled today each present distinct characteristics, ranging from case materials to unique dial designs. Nonetheless, they all exhibit a sense of quality and allure that enriches Audemars Piguet's impressively diverse collection. Personally, I have a fondness for the new Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar Openworked, especially due to its intricate dial design that beautifully complements the overall case shape. However, I can't help but wish for better water resistance than the 30 meters offered, considering its sporty vibe. While accessibility may vary given the steep price points, one cannot deny that these watches are truly captivating. The introduction of a new openworked version of a corrector-free perpetual calendar caliber is indeed a welcome enhancement. With this innovative movement now available, I eagerly anticipate what fascinating editions might emerge in the years ahead.
Key Specifications
Brand: Audemars Piguet
Model: Royal Oak & Code 11.59
Reference Numbers: 26443NB.OO.D002CR.01 (Code 11.59 QP Openworked); 26685XT.OO.1320XT.01 (Royal Oak QP Openworked); 26674CD.OO.1225CD.01 (Royal Oak QP Blue Ceramic)
Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 10.6mm (Code 11.59); 9.5mm (Royal Oak)
Case Material: White gold & black ceramic (Code 11.59); Titanium & BMG (Royal Oak QP Openworked); Blue ceramic (Royal Oak QP)
Dial Color: Various
Indexes: Applied
Lume: Yes
Water Resistance: 30m (Code 11.59); 50m (Royal Oak)
Strap/Bracelet: Bracelet
Movement Details
Caliber: 7139 (Openworked); 7138 (Non-openworked)
Functions: Hours, minutes, corrector-free perpetual calendar, moonphase
Diameter: 29.6mm
Thickness: 4.1mm
Power Reserve: 55 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 VpH
Jewels: 41
Pricing and Availability
Price: CHF 118,000 (26443NB.OO.D002CR.01); CHF 180,300 (26685XT.OO.1320XT.01); CHF 133,900 (26674CD.OO.1225CD.01)
Availability: AP Boutiques & Retailers
Limited Edition: No.
For further information, click here (http://audemarspiguet.com/).
