849
Audemars Piguet
Ref. 25829TR.OO.0944TR.01
Royal Oak Quantième Perpetuel Automatique
A captivating and extremely rare limited edition tantalum and pink gold openwork perpetual calendar wristwatch with leap year indication, moon phases and bracelet, numbered 5 of a limited edition of 15 pieces
Full-Cataloguing
- Numbered 5 of a limited edition of 15 pieces
- 4th example to appear in the auction market
- Well-preserved and confirmed by the Extract from the Archives
Audemars Piguet's pioneering spirit in the 1990s sparked a remarkable increase in the use of new materials in watchmaking. Tantalum, celebrated for its stunning blue-grey color that surpasses traditional metals, has become a treasured choice for collectors seeking a subtle tone. Its appeal lies in multiple factors: its exceptional resistance to corrosion, its durability, and its satisfying weight that enhances the wearer's experience. However, the complex manufacturing process limits its use in watch production, making the current Tantalum and pink gold Royal Oak Quantième Perpetuel Automatique exceptionally rare.
In 1986, Audemars Piguet introduced the first fully openworked Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar, reference 25636. Driven by the calibre 2120/2800, this model harmoniously blended an openworked aesthetic, intricate engraving, and the technical sophistication of a perpetual calendar. Initially, the reference 25636 lacked a leap year indicator until the upgraded reference 25820 was introduced in 1996, featuring the improved calibre 2120/2802.
According to Audemars Piguet, the openwork Quantième Perpétuel reference 25829 was produced in a limited quantity of just 15 pieces per configuration. The interplay of materials is further enhanced by the openwork dial and rose-colored subsidiary dials, creating a visually striking composition.
Fresh to the market and numbered 005, this particular example is in excellent condition. An incredibly rare and highly sought-after reference among discerning collectors, this watch epitomizes Audemars Piguet's mastery in innovative and traditional watchmaking and is the fourth example to be offered in the auction market.
Audemars Piguet
Swiss | 1881A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.
Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.