Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin Openworked

In an illustrious unveiling that marks a new chapter in the legacy of horological artistry, Swiss Haute Horlogerie maestro Audemars Piguet introduces an exquisite addition to its Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin Openworked collection. Reference 16204 now gleams in a sophisticated 18-carat white gold ensemble, joining its counterparts in pink gold, yellow gold, and steel within the 39mm range.

This latest iteration is driven by the marvel of mechanical engineering, the selfwinding Calibre 7124, which boasts a remarkable thinness of just 2.7 mm. Merging unparalleled finesse with a strikingly contemporary openwork design, this masterpiece is set to enchant aficionados from April 2024, dressed in a palette of refined grey tones.

The embodiment of Audemars Piguet’s pioneering spirit, the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Ultra-Thin Openworked model (16204) is a homage to the revolutionary aesthetics of the inaugural 1972 Royal Oak, celebrated for its sporty allure and iconic stainless steel craftsmanship. Today’s interpretation elevates the legacy with a case and bracelet forged from pristine 18-carat white gold. Every detail, from the mirror-polished edges of the bezel to the vertically satin-finished surfaces of the bracelet, showcases Audemars Piguet’s signature blend of matte and shine, crafting a visual symphony that plays with light and shadow.

The heart of this timepiece, Calibre 7124, is adorned in shades of anthracite grey, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the white gold case that accentuates the intricate openwork. The inner bezel, slightly darker than the movement, along with white gold hour markers, ensures optimal legibility while harmonizing with the Calibre’s aesthetic. The spectacle continues on the reverse, where a rhodium-toned gold oscillating weight, also featuring polished and satin finishes, is meticulously openworked to offer a glimpse into the movement’s sophistication, complemented by a 57-hour power reserve.

Openworking, a craft honed by the brand since the 1930s, involves the delicate removal of material from each component to reveal the mesmerizing intricacies of the movement without compromising its integrity. This demanding technique is evident in Calibre 7124, where the light dances through the visible barrel, escapement, and gear train, inviting admirers to explore the depths of its mechanical beauty. Expertly developed to nestle within the “Jumbo” case’s slim profile, this calibre show a great balance of design and technical expertise.

The journey of openworking within the Royal Oak collection spans decades, boasting over 50 models adorned with this intricate technique. From its initial introduction in 1981 to its resurgence in the 1990s and beyond, openworking has become a defining feature of the Royal Oak identity. The inaugural openworked “Jumbo” model emerged in 1992, celebrating the Audemars Piguet Foundation’s commitment to forest preservation.