Since its introduction in 1972, the Royal Oak collection from Swiss luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet has been a mainstay of the horological world. Its iconic design, with its octagonal bezel, integrated bracelet, and exposed screws, has become instantly recognizable. And now, in 2023, the company has announced the release of a new addition to the collection: the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024.
What Makes the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024 So Special?
For starters, this timepiece is a marvel of engineering. It features a perpetual calendar, which means it can accurately display the date, day, month, and year, taking into account leap years, without needing to be adjusted. And with a skeletonized dial, the intricate inner workings of the watch are on full display, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship that goes into each and every Audemars Piguet timepiece.
But it’s not just the technical specs that make this watch stand out. The design is simply stunning. The 41mm case is crafted from 18-carat pink gold, with the signature octagonal shape and brushed and polished finishes. The bracelet is also made from pink gold and features the same mix of brushed and polished surfaces. And of course, there are the exposed screws, which not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also serve a functional purpose in holding the watch together.
What Are Some of the Key Features of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024?
Aside from the perpetual calendar and the skeletonized dial, this watch boasts a number of impressive features. These include:
- A moon phase display, which shows the current phase of the moon
- A week indicator, which displays the current week number
- A power reserve indicator, which shows how much energy is left in the watch’s mainspring
- A sapphire crystal caseback, which allows you to see the movement from the back of the watch
Who Should Consider the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024?
This watch is a true statement piece, and it’s not for everyone. With a price tag of around $150,000, it’s definitely an investment piece. But for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, intricate engineering, and timeless design, the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024 is a must-have. It’s a watch that will never go out of style and will be passed down through generations.
What Are Some of the Pros and Cons of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024?
Pros:
- Perpetual calendar means you never have to adjust the date, day, month, or year
- Skeletonized dial showcases the intricate inner workings of the watch
- Stunning design that is instantly recognizable
Cons:
- Very expensive, with a price tag of around $150,000
- Can be heavy on the wrist, due to the 18-carat pink gold construction
- The exposed screws can be a bit of an acquired taste
Final Thoughts
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024 is a true masterpiece of watchmaking. It combines incredible technical specs with a stunning design to create a timepiece that is truly fit for royalty. While it may not be within everyone’s budget, for those who can afford it, this watch is a must-have. It’s a piece that will be treasured for years to come and will always be a conversation starter.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2024 water-resistant?
A: Yes, the watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
Q: How often does the watch need to be serviced?
A: It’s recommended that the watch be serviced every three to five years to ensure optimal performance.
Q: Can the bracelet be adjusted to fit different wrist sizes?
A: Yes, the bracelet can be adjusted by removing or adding links.