Table of Contents
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak collection frequently illustrates remarkable craftsmanship through intricate watchmaking techniques, notably evident in their Openworked Double Balance Wheel editions. Here, the renowned Swiss brand combines exceptional horological sophistication with meticulous engineering to deliver truly remarkable timepieces.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked Double Balance Wheel Reference 15407ST with distinctive salmon dial
Among these extraordinary watches is the stainless steel Royal Oak Openworked Double Balance Wheel with a salmon dial (Reference 15407ST). Characterized by a 41mm stainless steel case and an intricately designed dial in a subtle salmon hue, this model skillfully marries elegance and mechanical artistry. The contrast between the salmon-colored openworked dial and the polished stainless steel provides visual distinction, further enhanced by Audemars Piguet's precisely engineered calibre 3132, first introduced in 2016. Offering water resistance up to 50 meters, this model demonstrates a careful balance between functional robustness and aesthetic refinement.
The double balance wheel mechanism visible through the openworked dial, featuring golden accents on the black ceramic model
The collection also includes the strikingly discreet black ceramic version (Reference 15416CE). Crafted entirely from ceramic, this watch presents an understated yet distinguished appearance. Ceramic, known for its resilience and unique reflective qualities, provides the piece with a distinctively refined finish. The incorporation of golden accents on both the bridges and the double balance wheel highlights the technical precision and complexity that Audemars Piguet's craftsmen achieve. This subtle interplay of gold and black ceramic elevates the watch's overall visual impression, blending a restrained presence with technical mastery.
The limited edition white ceramic model featuring the distinctive aventurine ring with its characteristic starry appearance
Completing the trio is the exceedingly rare white ceramic model (Reference 15416CB), produced in an extremely limited run of just thirty pieces. This variation stands apart not solely due to its rarity, but through the exceptional use of aventurine in the dial's surrounding ring. Aventurine, prized for its distinctive, starry appearance, introduces an element of subtle exclusivity. Audemars Piguet's choice to integrate such uncommon materials underscores their dedication to creating pieces that represent both technical innovation and understated luxury.
The white and black ceramic Royal Oak Openworked models showcasing their contrasting aesthetics
Each of these Openworked Double Balance Wheel watches employs calibre 3132, distinguished by its dual-balance wheel design. This advanced mechanical arrangement consists of two balance wheels placed on a shared axis at differing heights, stabilized by independent bridges and hairsprings. This configuration enhances accuracy, stability, and shock resistance, attributes particularly valuable for a watch intended to be worn daily.
The complex production process required for crafting ceramic cases further emphasizes the exclusivity of these timepieces. Ceramic demands precise conditions, including heating to temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Celsius and meticulous shaping using specialized diamond-tipped instruments. The result of this rigorous method is a material that boasts superior hardness compared to traditional steel, combined with a sleek, polished appearance.
Detailed view of the salmon-colored openworked dial showcasing the intricate finishing and polished hour markers
In sum, the Royal Oak Openworked Double Balance Wheel collection exemplifies Audemars Piguet's ability to blend traditional horological principles with forward-thinking design. These watches not only demonstrate technical prowess but also reflect a discreet elegance appreciated by connoisseurs of exceptional watchmaking.