256 Audemars Piguet Extremely Rare 150 Pieces Limited Edition, Semi-Skeletonized Tourbillon Oversized Royal Oak Concept Wristwatch in Alacrite, Reference 25980AI, With Extract from the Archives.
Estimate: €120,000 – 250,000
Sold (Premium)€162,500
Model: Royal Oak Concept Watch (CW1)
Reference: 25980AI.OO.D003SU.01
Case Material: Alacrite
Bracelet Material: Kevlar
Year: 2005
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 2896
Case N°: F31130
Movement N°: 600 277
Dimensions: 44 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives
Manufactured in 2002 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Royal Oak collection, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept was considered a radical re-interpretation of the original designs of Gerald Genta. The Royal Oak Concept Watch’s case is made from Alacrite 602, an innovative and durable alloy consisting of cobalt, chrome, tungsten and traces of carbon, silicon and iron, with purposes in the aerospace industry and medical applications and represent the first timepiece ever produced with this particular material. Developed in only 150 examples, the timepiece features a skeletonized dial encompassing a complex tourbillon mechanism with a vertical in-line power reserve and dynamograph indicator developed by AP’s complication specialists Renaud et Papi. At the 12 o’clock position, Audemars Piguet added a “dynamographe” to represent the quality of torque on the mainspring, and to its right is a unique linear power reserve spanning the length of the dial from 1 o’clock to 5 o’clock. At 6 o’clock, a function selection indicator showing the current function of the crown: winding (R-remontoir), neutral (N-neutre) and setting (H-heures). Through the screw down push button below the crown found on the case at 4 o’clock, the watch is set to the desired function in order to wind or set the time. Through its surprising design, groundbreaking case materials and strong heritage, the present timepiece is also offered with its original papers.