109 Audemars Piguet An impressively rare, important and very well preserved, full calendar moon phase wristwatch in yellow gold, with extract from the archives, reference 5513BA
Estimate: CHF 100,000 – 200,000
Sold (Premium)CHF 162,500
| Model | Full Calendar Moon Phase |
|---|---|
| Reference | 5513BA |
| Case Material | Yellow gold |
| Bracelet Material | Leather strap |
| Year | 1949 |
| Movement | Manual, cal. 9/10RSQ, 18 jewels |
| Case N° | 473 |
| Movement N° | 55'894 |
| Dimensions | 31mm Diameter |
| Signed | Case, dial and movement |
| Accessories | Accompanied by Audemars Piguet extract from the archives confirming the sale of the present timepiece to Chronomex in Mexico on September 29th, 1952 |
| Literature | A similar example of this reference has been previously sold by Artcurial in "Horlogerie de Collection" auction on 18 July 2022 for 157'440 € |
Audemars Piguet’s vintage calendar wristwatches are among the most revered and esteemed timepieces in the world of collectors. The Audemars Piguet reference 5513 is distinguished by its pronounced bezel and substantial lugs, and despite its modest 31mm size, the layout ensures remarkable legibility. A large subdial at 12 o’clock displays the date, while the 6 o’clock counter houses the moon phase along with the small seconds. Additional subdials at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock indicate the day of the week and the month, respectively. Out of only 18 examples of reference 5513 ever produced, only 5 watches are known. Originally, 11 were housed in yellow gold, 4 in white gold, and 3 in pink gold. Among the most significant vintage wristwatch by Audemars Piguet, these full calendar wristwatches were powered by the legendary ultra-thin calibre 9/10RSQ. The history of the calibre 9/10RSQ is a crucial chapter in Audemars Piguet’s legacy, underscoring the rarity of its complicated timepieces. While the broader 9/10RS movements were produced in 2,811 units, only 68 were fitted with calendar mechanisms and designated as 9/10RSQ, making them extraordinarily scarce. The movement blanks were originally supplied by Louis-Elisée Piguet, but Audemars Piguet’s watchmakers meticulously refined and completed them. Calibre 9/10RSQ was used in two distinct references: the larger 37mm reference 5504, featuring symmetrical rectangular apertures for day and month, and like the present example, the 31mm reference 5513, which adopts a more traditional calendar layout. While a 31mm diameter may be considered modest by modern standards, the watch’s prominent bezel, elongated lugs, and well-proportioned dial create a presence that feels significantly larger on the wrist. Its rarity, timeless appeal, and exceptional state of preservation make it a true treasure for any vintage watch enthusiast.