Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin iN China

Audemars Piguet continues to push the boundaries of ultra-thin watchmaking with its Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin, now available in a striking 18k yellow gold edition, reference 26586BA. Originally presented as the RD#2 prototype, this groundbreaking model set the standard for slim perpetual calendars with its 6.2mm thickness. While the Royal Oak Ultra-Thin has since been surpassed in thinness, this new release offers an exclusive, luxurious twist with a bold monochromatic gold design available only in Greater China. Limited to just 88 pieces, this edition promises exclusivity and a substantial presence on the wrist.This 41mm diameter case is crafted from solid 18k yellow gold, embodying both elegance and substantial wrist presence. This new edition maintains the ultra-thin profile that makes the model groundbreaking, measuring only 6.2mm in thickness, which, despite its large diameter, creates a refined and sleek silhouette. The weight and richness of the solid gold construction contribute to an elevated experience, setting it apart from the previous titanium and platinum iterations of the model.On the reverse, a sapphire crystal caseback reveals the intricate details of the in-house Calibre 5133, adding both aesthetic appeal and a connection to the movement’s craftsmanship. The case exhibits a combination of vertically brushed surfaces and polished accents, a classic feature of the Royal Oak’s signature design. This contrast in finishes accentuates the bold structure of the octagonal bezel, which is secured with eight white gold screws, a hallmark of the Royal Oak lineage.It comes equipped with a screw-lock crown for added security and functionality, integrated seamlessly into the case, while the lugs are also fully integrated, flowing smoothly into the matching gold bracelet to maintain the continuous aesthetic. Water-resistance can reach up to 20 meters (66 feet).The dial of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 26586BA is an exercise in monochromatic elegance, rendered entirely in yellow gold-tone to match the case. The main dial surface and the tone-on-tone subdials maintain a cohesive color palette that enhances the opulent aesthetic of this model. Crafted with Audemars Piguet’s attention to detail, the dial features finely textured finishing that plays beautifully with light, creating a subtle yet luxurious backdrop.At 6 o’clock, a moonphase display offers a striking contrast to the golden tones, featuring a gold moon against a deep blue starry background. This classic complication is balanced with additional perpetual calendar displays, including date, day, month, and leap year indicators. The carefully placed subdials ensure symmetry while maintaining the legibility expected from a high-end timepiece.The hands and applied hour markers, crafted from 18k yellow gold, are filled with white luminescent material to ensure readability in low-light conditions. This luminescent application provides a touch of contrast to the monochrome dial, subtly enhancing its functionality while maintaining the elegance of the design.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin

This “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Ultra” (Ref#: 26586BA.OO.1240BA.99) is powered by the self-winding in-house mechanical movement, caliber AP 5133 with 37 jewels, 256 components and 19,800 vph. AP developed two patented innovations because of the end-of-the-month cam which has been integrated to the date wheel, and the month cam combined to the month wheel. Power reserve can last up to 40 hours, when fully wound.Mounted on the watch is an integrated Royal Oak bracelet in 18k yellow gold with brushed and polished accents, secured to the wrist by an AP folding clasp.The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin 26586BA is available exclusively in Greater China (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), limited to only 88 pieces. For more up to date information visit the official Audemars Piguet website here. 

 

 

Audemars Piguet, AP, Royal Oak, Perpetual Calendar, Luxury Watches