Audemars Piguet recently premiered its six newest additions to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon Baguette Sapphire Collection. On the menu are now options in 18-carat pink and white gold, filled to the brim with colorful and elegant gemstones, sapphires, and diamonds.
We all have days when we might take a watch for granted, especially when we’re wearing an old Casio or Swatch. There are other days, however, where a watch just takes our breath away. That’s what’s happening now with these Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon Baguette Sapphire.
Earlier this week, the Swizterland-based watchmaker announced that it would add six additional styles to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon Baguette Sapphire collection. Five are in 18k white gold cases with an option in 18k pink gold. The wristwear is also dripping with gemstones.
Each of the 38.5 mm watches relies on a hand-wound movement, the company’s well-trusted caliber 2951, offering at least 77 hours of power reserve. You can even take a luxurious bubble bath or moonlight dip in these beauties; they’re water-resistant up to 20 meters.
The luminous beauty that surrounds the watch ties back to the glare-proof sapphire crystal and case backs as well as the clear sapphire cabochon gemstones on the crown.
There are two strap selections available. The first is a blue alligator strap (large square-scale). The second, constellation, is a blue rubber strap in a mosaic-like pattern.
Beyond that, each model is fairly unique in its own right thanks to aptly crafted bezels, dials, buckles, and cases – all set with countless gems, sapphires, and diamonds. The artistry really shows here how these stones do not make the watch feel heavy on the wrist.
The craftsmanship of each individually cut and polished stone reads exquisitely under direct and ambient lighting. A professional tradesman set each stone in gold to intentionally catch the light.
There are two rainbow watches in the series that are sure to capture the attention of the showy, jazzy, and flashy. As many as 12 stones are on the guestlist: rubies, emeralds, topaz, amethysts, and sapphires all may make an appearance.
The white and pink gold styles throw the 208 baguette-cut blue sapphires in the limelight. To achieve the curved form, the sapphires had to be cut into 144 sizes. Under the stones sits an inconspicuous rail that holds everything together. The assembly is reportedly a 150-hour job.
These watches will be available next year. Shops should carry the other four in the collection by the end of the month. And, if you’re curious about the price tag, you’ll have to ask.