Appreciation of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra-Thin Openworked Heritage Classic Watch

　　In 2012, markingAudemars Piguetthe fortieth anniversary of the launch of the Royal Oak collection. This extraordinary watch has always stayed at the forefront of the times and is an indelible important imprint in the history of the Audemars Piguet brand. As the first luxury sports watch in history, the Royal Oak collection has become a legend. To grandly celebrate its fortieth anniversary, the Le Brassus Audemars Piguet manufacture specially launches the Royal Oak Ultra-Thin Openworked watch, combining exquisite watchmaking craftsmanship, modern style, and sporting flair. To perfectly reflect this extraordinary trait, this platinum anniversary edition is strictly limited to 40 pieces. Next, let us appreciate the charm of this watch together.

　　Introduction to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra-Thin Openworked Heritage Classic Watch

　　1972 was a decisive turning point in the history of modern watchmaking, and the Royal Oak collection is the crucial link connecting the past and the future. 40 years ago, a new sports watch that broke traditional watchmaking conventions was released, having a profound impact on the future watchmaking industry. For the first time, a luxury ultra-thin movement was housed within a stainless steel case, and priced similarly to gold watches. This unusual watch was specially designed for Audemars Piguet by designer Gérald Genta and launched in the spring of 1972, with a design so bold that the industry at the time could not foresee its future success. 40 years have passed and the ingenuity of this design speaks for itself. The Royal Oak collection has not only endured, but also innovated continuously, with the latest models of this collection being the best proof.

　　Looking closely at the Royal Oak Ultra-Thin Openworked watch, it can be seen as not only a tribute to the 40th anniversary of the launch of the legendary Royal Oak watch, but also an epitome of the Audemars Piguet manufacture and the exquisite craftsmanship it commands. As an expert in ultra-thin movements, the Audemars Piguet manufacture chose to house a movement capable of expressing the "complexity" of watchmaking craftsmanship inside the first Royal Oak watch produced in 1972. Namely the famous 2121 calibre, with a thickness of only 3.05 mm, it is one of the world's thinnest automatic mechanical movements, becoming the operational heart within the first batch of Royal Oak collection models.

　　The uniqueness of openworked movement craftsmanship lies in how to hollow out the movement as much as possible during engraving to present a transparent effect. Currently, only a few craftsmen are proficient in this craft. In a single watch, combining an ultra-thin movement while highlighting exquisite openworked craftsmanship is truly a high-difficulty technical challenge. The new Royal Oak Ultra-Thin Openworked watch launched to pay tribute to the 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection manages to balance both, with the 950 platinum model limited to 40 pieces.

　　Instantly recognisable signature features

　　The manufacture-made 5122 self-winding ultra-thin movement powering this anniversary timekeeper represents the pinnacle of watchmaking craftsmanship. Measuring a mere 3.05 millimetres thick, this movement is entirely openworked, including the suspended barrel. Alongside the modern, minimalist lines of the openworking, a galvanic dark grey finish lends the watch a highly contemporary aesthetic. All decorations on the bridges and mainplate (such as polishing, satin-brushed finishes, perlage, matte finishes and graining) are completed entirely by hand. The solid oscillating weight is crafted exclusively in 22K gold and bears the "AP Royal Oak 1972-2012" (Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 1972 to 2012) signature. Meanwhile, the outer rim is adorned with a tapisserie motif, a characteristic decoration of the Royal Oak dial collection. Through the dark grey openworked dial, the beauty of the 5122 openworked movement can be admired. The date disc is crafted from sapphire to preserve the transparency of the movement, complemented by black date numerals that contrast against the grey background of the brushed metal-coated sapphire calendar aperture.

　　Paying tribute to the 40th anniversary of the launch of the first stainless steel luxury sports watch, the latest 2012 edition of the Royal Oak Extra-Thin Openworked brings together the striking signature elements of this collection. Most notably, the octagonal bezel and 8 polished hexagonal screws are crafted from white gold, while the case back is secured by 8 recessed nuts. Inspired by a diver's mask, the waterproof gasket positioned at the joint between the bezel and case remains another signature feature of the Royal Oak line. Furthermore, the bracelet is seamlessly integrated into the case (a design that was extremely rare in 1972), with bracelet links tapering in size to create a natural and astonishingly comfortable fit. These distinct features have cemented the illustrious reputation of the Royal Oak collection, allowing it to maintain its original originality and sporty character ever since its inception—as is naturally the case with the Royal Oak Extra-Thin Openworked.

　　Continuing a legendary history

　　The Royal Oak Extra-Thin Openworked measures 39 millimetres in diameter, matching the size of the model introduced in 1972. Considered unconventional and overly bold at the time, this dimension later pioneered the trend for large watches; today, 39 millimetres is regarded as a medium watch size. The platinum case offers a water resistance of 50 metres and is equipped with glareproofed sapphire crystal and case back. Every detail and fine finish of the movement is a visual delight. The new folding clasp is also crafted from 950 platinum and features a unique double-security mechanism.

　　The Royal Oak Extra-Thin Openworked reinterprets and elevates the classic elements and values of the Royal Oak collection. Issued in a limited run of 40 pieces, this openworked timekeeper, which continues a legendary history, fully captures the evolution over 40 years from an avant-garde timepiece into a representative flagship model for the brand.

　　Having seen this, I recommend a popular bestselling Audemars Piguet watch. Friends who want to know more can add WeChat to consult.

　　Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Series Watch 15400OR.OO.D002CR.01

　　Review:

　　◆ The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak series 41 mm large case possesses a unique contemporary character.

　　◆ Equipped with a Citizen 9015 mechanical movement to provide a precise timekeeping experience.

　　◆ Features an octagonal bezel that creates a subtle contrast between brushed and polished finishes, secured by 8 hexagonal screws just like white gold.

　　◆ Equipped with a screw-locked crown, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback.

　　A water resistance of 50 metres easily handles daily water exposure.

　　Paired with a calfskin strap, it balances a masculine edge with refined elegance, making it ideal for men.

　　Summary: With skilled craftsmanship and clever mechanical structure design, Audemars Piguet leaves us with a precious horological heritage. The Audemars Piguet watches recommended here feature fine workmanship and guaranteed quality. If you wish to purchase, please add WeChat to enquire.

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