Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: 1989 Reference No: 14480BA Movement No: 294'085 Case No: C67323 Material: 18k gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 120/1, 38 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Black leather strap Clasp/Buckle: 18k gold Audemars Piguet buckle Dimensions: 33.5mm diameter Signed:Case, crystal and movement signed Accessories: With Audemars Piguet Extract from the Archives confirming sale of the present wristwatch in 1989 in the United States.
Catalogue Essay
The present piece is a remarkable example of chased and skeletonized dial. The chased scene - itself skeletonized as well - depicting a stag drinking at a pond is layered atop movement. It strikes the beholder with astounding level of details, such as the reeds on the shore and the ripples created in the pond by the muzzle and hooves of the majestic animal.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal and refinement, it has to be pointed out that the present piece is most probably a special request, as hinted to by the rotor engraved P and J, arguably the initials of the original owner. According to Audemars Piguet, similar dials have been made with motives such as birds or cars, but the "deer" motive appears to be extremely rare.
We thank Audemars Piguet Heritage Department for the invaluable assistance in researching this piece.
A 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.