148 Audemars Piguet Precious and Glamorous, Huitieme Chronograph Wristwatch, in Steel, Graduated Bezel, Black Dial, Reference 25 644ST

Estimate: € 5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Sold € 10,400

Model: Huitieme Chronograph
Reference: 25644ST
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1980's
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 2126
Case N°: D42605
Movement N°: 407843
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case

“Huitième” (or “Huitiesme” in old French, signifying “eighth”) stood as Audemars Piguet’s distinguished line during the 1970s and 1980s. However, in the present day, it tends to be overshadowed by the extensive popularity of the Royal Oak models. This particular model is crafted in steel, the manufacturer also presented it in a luxurious full gold edition, along with an innovative blend of tantalum and gold. The 40-mm-case size maintains a streamlined profile, housing the self-winding caliber 2126. This movement, an evolution of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s caliber 899/1, features an additional chronograph module by Dubois Dépraz. The impeccably preserved black dial is a rare find, showcasing the meticulous design of the tachymeter scale and three counters for continuous seconds, 30-minute recording, and 12-hour recording. A subtle yet refined date window at 3 o’clock adds to the dial’s sophistication. Notably distinctive is the graduated Arabic bezel, a departure from the typical Audemars Piguet inscription, adding an extra touch of beauty to the timepiece. This Audemars Piguet Huitieme Chronograph boasts a conventional and wearable 40.5 mm case crafted from steel. An intriguing detail is the placement of the “cyclops eye” over the date, situated inside the crystal, a rarity in comparison to the more common placement on top, as seen in Rolex and various other watches. This unique arrangement further enhances the watch’s distinctive character and sets it apart in terms of both design and functionality.