A Milestone in Miniaturization
Audemars Piguet continues its 150th anniversary celebrations with the introduction of two perpetual calendars reimagined in a compact 38mm format. For the first time, both the Royal Oak and the Code 11.59 collections host this revered complication in dimensions that reflect evolving tastes in fine watchmaking. The downsizing underscores a growing preference among collectors for versatility, wearability, and balance without compromise on technical achievement.
This announcement is particularly significant given the brand’s historic role in shaping the perpetual calendar as a contemporary wristwatch complication. By refining proportions to suit a broader audience, Audemars Piguet demonstrates not only technical mastery but also a keen awareness of cultural trends within luxury horology. These new models bridge heritage with innovation, presenting perpetual calendars that retain their gravitas while becoming more accessible in form.
Both watches are designed to honor the maison’s legacy while advancing its modern identity. By offering collectors reduced sizes in cornerstone collections, Audemars Piguet positions itself at the forefront of a market increasingly attuned to proportion as a marker of elegance and exclusivity. The result is a statement of continuity: horological icons reborn for a new generation.
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 38mm
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 38mm, reference 26684, presents a streamlined take on one of Audemars Piguet’s most iconic designs. Available in stainless steel with a pale blue Grande Tapisserie dial or in 18k pink gold paired with a beige dial, the model is defined by clean proportions at 38mm across and only 9.4mm thick. The reduced dimensions emphasize comfort and versatility while preserving the visual power of Gérald Genta’s original design codes.
Notably, the smaller case size simplifies the display by omitting the week indicator found in larger iterations. This leaves the essential calendar functions and a beautifully rendered moonphase at six o’clock, underscoring purity of design. In doing so, the watch prioritizes clarity and legibility, qualities increasingly prized by collectors in pursuit of functional elegance.
At the heart of the timepiece is the newly developed Caliber 7136, an automatic movement derived from the 7138. Operating at 4Hz with a 55-hour power reserve, the caliber is notable for its efficiency and user-friendly crown-based setting system. Prices begin at approximately $105,000 for the steel model and $135,000 for the pink gold edition, situating the watch firmly within the landscape of high-complication luxury timepieces.
The Code 11.59 in a New Dimension
The Code 11.59 Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar has also received a reimagining in the new 38mm format. Reference 26441OR, crafted in pink gold, measures 9.9mm in thickness and maintains the collection’s architectural case design with openworked lugs and contrasting polished and satin-brushed surfaces. This deliberate interplay of geometry and finish ensures that the model retains its place as a contemporary statement of horological architecture.
Unlike the Royal Oak version, this edition preserves the week indicator on its vivid green embossed dial. The striking design is complemented by a matching alligator strap and pink gold folding clasp, creating a seamless visual harmony. Water resistance rated at 100 meters further enhances practicality, demonstrating that technical refinement and durability can coexist in a high-complication timepiece.
Powered by the Caliber 7138, the watch embodies the maison’s pursuit of precision within a compact frame. With 41 jewels, a slim 4.1mm movement profile, and heritage links to Audemars Piguet’s groundbreaking ultra-thin perpetual calendars, the model exemplifies modern craftsmanship rooted in tradition. Priced at approximately $150,000, it underscores the value placed on exclusivity, engineering, and design excellence within this anniversary year.
Heritage Marked in Limited Edition
To commemorate its 150th anniversary, Audemars Piguet has created limited editions of 150 pieces for each of the new perpetual calendars. These editions bear a vintage-style signature on the moonphase disc and a commemorative engraving on the caseback, subtle details that honor the maison’s past while reinforcing its reputation for meticulous finishing. Such touches transform the watches from mechanical achievements into cultural artifacts of the brand’s enduring story.
The decision to limit production further accentuates exclusivity, aligning with collector expectations for rarity and distinction. Each watch becomes not only an object of technical brilliance but also a symbolic investment in the legacy of Audemars Piguet. Collectors are thus offered pieces that transcend timekeeping, carrying forward a narrative of continuity and reverence for tradition.
By scaling down its perpetual calendars, Audemars Piguet demonstrates both technical agility and cultural foresight. The release confirms the maison’s position as a leader in fine watchmaking, balancing proportion, precision, and heritage. These anniversary editions embody the values that have defined the brand for 150 years: craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless elegance.