Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked
Audemars Piguet continues to blend precision engineering with aesthetic elegance in their Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked collection. With a history of innovation, the introduction of a double balance wheel in this iconic line showcases their commitment to enhancing mechanical accuracy through advanced watchmaking techniques. The latest 41mm models, presented in steel, black ceramic, and 18k yellow gold, not only highlight the brand's mastery in crafting exquisite timepieces but also cater to diverse tastes with their contrasting openworked details. These watches are a testament to Audemars Piguet's prowess in creating pieces that are as visually striking as they are technically proficient.
The 41mm diameter and 9.9mm height case of this Audemars Piguet model, available in black ceramic, 18k yellow gold, and stainless steel, brings an elegant yet bold presence to the wrist.
Its iconic octagonal bezel, secured by eight golden screws, is a hallmark of the Royal Oak design. The sophisticated contrast between the vertical satin-brushed finish and polished bevels accentuates the architectural essence of the watch, particularly in the ceramic version where these finishings are exceptionally labor-intensive.
On the flipside is a sapphire exhibition caseback that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It features a meticulously crafted oscillating weight that is skeletonized and decorated with a rose gold finish, enhancing the visual appeal through the clear caseback.
It comes equipped with a screw-down crown that renders it suitable for short periods of recreational swimming but not for diving or high-impact water sports. All topped by an anti-reflective glareproofed sapphire crystal that assists with water-resistance reaching up to 50 meters (164 feet).
Time is exhibited on a gold-toned openworked dial (for the steel and black ceramic models), where the intricate skeletonization reveals the underlying double balance architecture. This backdrop is accented by applied gold indices, all of which are treated with luminescence to ensure visibility under low light conditions.
Except the yellow gold model varies from steel and ceramic by instead of gold featuring an anthracite-toned openworked display. This differentiation in dial tones complements the respective case materials, enhancing the overall aesthetic and design contrast of each version.
There is also a visible gear train and mainspring, integral parts of the movement that are elegantly displayed through the skeletonized structure. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also allows for a direct appreciation of the watch's mechanical intricacies.
The central hour and minute hands match each model's main case alloy, in a subtle yet cohesive touch. These indicators and hourly index markers have all been fitted with a luminescent filling, enhancing legibility against the complex dial layout. This ensures that time reading remains straightforward despite the detailed openworking.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked
The “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked” (References below) is powered by the new in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 3132 with 38 jewels, 245 components, and 21,600 vph. It features a double balance wheel on the same axis. This sophisticated mechanism is designed to enhance precision and stability by counteracting the effects of gravity more effectively than traditional single balance wheel constructions. Power reserve can last up to 45 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is an integrated bracelet that matches the case material, available in stainless steel, black ceramic, or 18k yellow gold. Each bracelet is meticulously finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, enhancing the Royal Oak’s distinctive aesthetic. The bracelets are secured by Audemars Piguet’s folding clasp, which ensures a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. For more information visit the official Audemars Piguet website here.
