Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin with BMG Bezel

Throughout the years Audemars Piguet has consistently introduced a wide array of variations for their Royal Oak collection. This model is a revered icon in the world of horology, hence the brand can't make drastic changes to its core design without admires giving it a scrupulous look. This latest release the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin reference 16202XT.OO.1240XT.01 stands out by incorporating cutting-edge materials and combining an alluring burgundy gradient dial with a case and bracelet crafted from titanium and bulk metallic glass.The 39mm case is made of grade 5 titanium with a mix of vertical brushed flat surfaces and polished bevels. Mounted by the iconic “Royal Oak” octagonal shaped bezel with polished finish and exposed 18k white gold hexagonal screws. But, this is an extra special bezel because it is a BMG (Bulk Metallic Glass) bezel, which is made out of a palladium-based alloy.On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition case back that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. The balance wheel and open-worked rotor are made of rose gold with the latter carved out in the form of an “AP” logo.Discovered in the 1960s, Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) has found applications in both microelectronics and golf due to its remarkable glass-like qualities, including amorphous structure and high hardness when subjected to rapid cooling. Among the various types of metallic glasses available, Audemars Piguet chose to collaborate in the development of their own metallic glass, based on palladium. This specially crafted metallic glass offers exceptional resistance to wear and corrosion, along with an enhanced brilliance.The manufacturing process commences with the material's melting and it's pouring into molds, shaping the components into their initial form, including the bezel and caseback. Swift cooling is then applied to preserve the material's unique attributes, such as hardness and elasticity. Following removal from the molds, the components undergo machining to attain their final shape. It also comes equipped with a screw-down crown adorned with the AP logo. All topped by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. Water-resistance can reach up to 50 meters (164 feet).Time is exhibited on a smoked burgundy dial with rose gold applied hour markers, followed by a white printed minute track ring. Instead of the commonly used AP "Petite Tapisserie” or “Grande Tapisserie” motif, which both consist of a pattern of small or large squares, obtained thru a hand guilloché technique. This new release has opted for a single main hue with a sunburst motif and a gradient effect that leads the dial from a burgundy center to a black colored flange. Meanwhile the AP logo at 6 o’clock is the same one that was reintroduced back in 2012 during its 40th anniversary edition.The central gold hands and hour index markers have all been given a luminescent filling, for an enhanced legibility. There is also a tone-on-tone date aperture at the 3 o’clock position, that manages to stand-out while not disrupting the dominant hues aesthetics.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin

The “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin” (Ref#: 16202XT.OO.1240XT.01) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 7121 with 33 jewels, 268 components, and 28,800 vph. Power reserve can last up to 55 hours, when fully wound.Mounted on the watch is an integrated grade 5 titanium Royal Oak bracelet with an overall vertically brushed finish and polished BMG mid-links for artistic contrast, secured to the wrist by an AP folding clasp. For more up to date information visit the official Audemars Piguet website here.

Audemars Piguet, AP, Royal Oak, Jumbo, Extra-Thin, BMG, Titanium, Luxury Watches