In a pioneering leap into watchmaking materials innovation, Audemars Piguet, the Swiss Haute Horlogerie Maison, proudly unveils its very first timepiece made of sand gold—a unique 18-carat alloy imbued with captivating interplays of light. This rare alloy, akin to a chameleon, gracefully morphs its color with every shift in angle and light, awarding its wearer with a kaleidoscope of expressions and a sense of unparalleled exclusivity.
Audemars Piguet has chosen the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked for this inaugural foray into sand gold, presented in a refined 41 mm case size. Audemars Piguet meticulously crafted a complementary sand-gold-toned hue to grace the openworked bridges and mainplate of the Calibre 2972 in perfect harmony with the new golden case and bracelet. This new galvanic color harmoniously juxtaposes against the rhodium-toned inner workings, creating an engaging 3D tableau that seamlessly merges technical prowess with avant-garde design.
The sand gold, a radiant union reminiscent of sun-kissed dunes, combines the noble elements of gold with copper and palladium, yielding a warm and radiant canvas. Oscillating between white and pink gold, it offers a nuanced spectrum of tones, forever in dialogue with the ambient light. Not only does it ooze timeless elegance, but its resistance to discoloration over time ensures your watch will stay the same over time, making it an example of both durability and sophistication and a testament to the timepiece’s lasting value.
The meticulous craftsmanship extends beyond the golden confines, as the sand-gold case and bracelet bear the hallmark alternating patterns of satin brushing and polished chamfers—a testament to Audemars Piguet’s unwavering dedication to excellence. The gleaming mirror-polished bevels on the octagonal bezel and every link of the bracelet highlight the captivating interplay of light.
To complement the beautiful exterior, the inner bezel and openworked components of Calibre 2972 have been treated to embrace the sand-gold-toned hue through galvanic alchemy. Horizontal and vertical finishing of the openworked bridges enhances the depth of the movement, while brushed and polished angles playfully interact with light, orchestrating a symphony of visual delight.
In the pursuit of perfection, Audemars Piguet leaves no stone unturned, as even the smallest details are imbued with utmost attention. The sand-gold-toned bridges and mainplate stand in elegant contrast against touches of grey, while luminous white gold hour markers and hands ensure legibility in low light conditions. The signature “Audemars Piguet” gracing the sapphire crystal at 12 o’clock, rendered in black, pays homage to the brand’s legacy.
Flipping the timepiece reveals a captivating canvas of contrasts, with the rhodium-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight adding a touch of luxury to the two-tone aesthetic of the openworked movement. Calibre 2972, first introduced in 2022 to celebrate the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary, is a selfwinding movement with a flying tourbillon. Drawing inspiration from the age-old tradition of openworking, Audemars Piguet pushes the boundaries of possibility, sculpting the movement with precision and finesse. Each component is carefully crafted to allow light to pass through, revealing the intricate gears and springs without compromising functionality. Hand-finishing techniques such as polished V-angles and refined decorations reflect the artisanal mastery in every Audemars Piguet timepiece.
In a nod to its notable heritage, Audemars Piguet continues to innovate and diversify, seamlessly merging tradition with the contemporary. The Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked in sand gold, is a testament to this enduring commitment, a beacon of elegance and sophistication that transcends the boundaries of time.
Price & Availability
This new Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon in Sand Gold will not be easy to find. Check with your nearest Audemars Piguet boutique for availability.
Price: CHF 250’000 (excluding taxes)
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