Audemars Piguet's Latest Batch of Novelties for 2024

Audemars Piguet, the revered Swiss horloger, has once again surprised the watch world with another batch of novelties for 2024. While they have given us watches like the John Mayer Royal Oak, this new batch of novelties falls under the theme of "Shaping Materials.”

Underpinning the brand’s innovative designs and creative techniques, this theme reflects a blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics and material science to create a collection of watches that enter unchartered territory for the Holy Trinity’s most out-of-the-box member. Under the leadership of their new CEO, Ilaria Resta, Audemars Piguet is showing that it wants to continue pushing boundaries and deliver a range of watches that showcase bold textures, colours, shapes and impressive craftsmanship.

The [RE]Master02 Self-winding

As with any good list of novelties, we have to start with the freshest and most standout of all of the pieces that were launched, and so here we have the new [RE]Master02 Self-winding, a continuation of the [RE]Master collection whereby AP takes inspiration from their historical back catalogue filled with incredible watches.

A modern reinterpretation of a 1960s asymmetric model, this 41mm timepiece, crafted from the brand's new 18-carat sand gold alloy, pays homage to the brutalist architecture movement, characterized by its stark lines, bold angles and blocky aesthetic. The dial, in a striking midnight blue, features twelve triangular elements separated by sand-gold partitions, creating a mosaic-like effect that echoes the brutalist case’s style.

The sapphire crystal, with its unique 15.8-degree bezel on the right-hand side, required two years of research and development to be perfect, given the difficulty in its production. This attention to detail extends into the watch's interior, with the extra-thin self-winding cal. 7129 powering this new model. This movement, based on the Calibre 7121, produces more energy thanks to a larger barrel and features an asymmetric oscillating weight that mirrors the case's shape. Limited to just 250 pieces and priced at 41,100 CHF, the [RE]Master02 exemplifies Audemars Piguet's growing interest in reviving historical designs with a contemporary twist.

Royal Oak Selfwinding Full Gemset

Sure to grab attention with their vibrant, gem-adorned camouflage pattern designs, the new Royal Oak Selfwinding Full Gemset pieces feature 861 baguette-cut gemstones arranged in graduated shades of blue or in green, brown, and black tones. Reminiscent of pixelated patterns seen in modern fashion collections and digital camouflage patterns, this creative use of gemstones transforms the Royal Oak into a luxurious yet playful piece, offering a fresh take on the iconic design.

Code 11.59

One of AP’s entry-level offerings, the Code 11.59 collection also receives a dazzling update with two new gemset models. These 38mm watches, available in 18kt white or pink gold, feature dials are adorned with brilliant-cut diamonds and colored sapphires arranged in a kaleidoscopic pave pattern. In addition to their dials, both references feature diamond-set cases and winding crowns as AP extends the Code 11.59 collection further up the experimental ladder.

The Petite Royal Oak Mini

The introduction of the Royal Oak Mini Frosted Gold models marks a significant addition to the Royal Oak lineup. Measuring just 23mm, these miniature timepieces are offered in yellow, white, or pink gold with a Frosted Gold finish. This technique, pioneered by Florentine jeweler Carolina Bucci, adds a jewel-like quality to the watches without the addition of any gemstone, making them perfect for delicate wrists and giving them a rather unique aesthetic.

Despite their small size, these watches retain all the iconic design elements of the Royal Oak, including the Petite Tapisserie dial its octagonal bezel and signature integrated bracelet. Powered by the quartz cal. 2730 movement, with a seven-year battery life, these watches are not only beautiful but also highly functional. Just like how the [RE]Master02 is inspired by AP’s past, these petite models harken back to the brand's history of creating small, technically innovative timepieces, such as the 20mm Royal Oak Mini from 1997.

Other Notable Releases:

In addition to the headline-grabbing models, Audemars Piguet has introduced several other noteworthy pieces. The 37mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel features an open-worked design with a monochromatic colour scheme accented by touches of blue and gold. This model showcases the brand's historical mastery of open-worked watches, blending technical prowess with aesthetic appeal, and comes in either 18kt white or 18kt rose gold.

Lastly, AP also launched a 34mm variant of the automatic Royal Oak in Frosted Gold, available in white or yellow gold. In addition to its frosted finish, it boasts a textured, mesmerizing pattern on the dial, that is handcrafted by the brand’s artisans and exudes the same gem-esque finish as the rest of the piece’s construction.

A Testament to Innovation and Craftsmanship

A testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence, this latest batch of novelties includes models inspired by the bold and brutalist like the new [RE]Master02 to the dazzling and iconic like the Royal Oak Selfwinding Full Gemset, each launch reflecting a unique blend of heritage and modernity. The theme of "Shaping Materials" is evident throughout the collection, as is the company’s new CEO’s input into their watches as she moves to showcase the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking and design while also keeping a foot rooted in the brand’s history. As Audemars Piguet continues to evolve under their new leadership, these latest novelties aid in solidifying its position as a leader in the world of luxury horology.