Audemars Piguet Boutique Visit: GLau's Pictorial of New Releases and Grails

GLau · 2024-07-12T17:06:40Z

Explore GLau's Audemars Piguet boutique visit, featuring the John Mayer PC and new Double Balance models. Get collector insights on AP's latest releases.

GLau

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

22 replies5075 views14 photos

GLau's latest pictorial post offers an exclusive look inside an Audemars Piguet boutique, showcasing an array of new releases and 'grail' pieces. His detailed photographs and initial impressions, particularly on the John Mayer Perpetual Calendar's unique dial, provide a valuable first-hand account for collectors. This article synthesizes community reactions to these novelties, highlighting specific models and design choices that resonate—or don't—with seasoned enthusiasts.

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pictorial post after another amazing visit to the AP boutique. Sales manager Vincent saw me a few days earlier wondering in the mall and he kindly asked to go in to check out the new pieces. I could not believe my eyes 👀!

So many grails ! I thought very highly of the John Mayer PC which apparently the lumpy 3-D effect on the dial was created by a hand 🤚 process of adding additional ingredient on the dial !

Which one(s) do you like or dislike and why ?

About the Rolex Chronograph Ref. 116508

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 reference 116508 is a notable entry within the brand's contemporary collection, distinguished by its innovative case construction and refined aesthetics. This particular reference is recognized for its use of 18k yellow gold, offering a classic yet modern interpretation of the Code 11.59 design language. It represents Audemars Piguet's commitment to exploring new forms and materials while maintaining a high standard of horological craftsmanship.

The watch features a 40mm case crafted from 18k yellow gold, housing an automatic movement. The dial is presented in a vibrant green, complemented by a fixed tachymeter bezel. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and durability. The movement provides a power reserve of 72 hours and is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it suitable for daily wear.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in Audemars Piguet's modern offerings and those seeking a distinctive timepiece that combines traditional precious metal with a contemporary design. Its yellow gold Oyster bracelet integrates seamlessly with the case, enhancing its cohesive appearance. The production period for this reference spans from 2016 to 2023, indicating its availability over several years within the brand's catalog.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal. 4130

Case: 18k yellow gold

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: green

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The Audemars Piguet boutique experience, particularly at AP House in London, is lauded for its hospitality and staff, though the focus remains heavily on Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore permutations rather than exploring the brand's historical catalog.
The mid-year releases, including new Double Balances, sand gold models, and ladies' 23mm references, demonstrate an astonishingly active release schedule from Audemars Piguet compared to other luxury watch brands.
The John Mayer Perpetual Calendar's dial is highly praised for its fantastic aesthetic, though some wish for a slightly smaller case size. Conversely, the Travis Scott collaboration, yellow gold skeleton movements, Offshores, and Concept models receive less favorable opinions.
The John Mayer PC's dial features a unique 3D effect created by a hand-applied process, adding material to the dial. This intricate detail, along with the watch's substantial heft, is best appreciated in person.
There is mixed reception for the new Double Balance models featuring gold-salmon colored movements, with some preferring the yellow gold model with a black bridge. The John Mayer dial, however, is consistently well-regarded.
Some collectors express a preference for the classic, simpler aesthetic of older Royal Oak models, such as Perpetual Calendars without the week indicator, and appreciate lines like Jules Audemars and John Shaeffer over the continuous stream of new dial variations.
The ceramic Double Balance is noted for its appeal but also its limited availability, while the yellow gold version is observed to resemble the original 15305 reference.

The Discussion

mdg

Jul 12, 2024

AP is becoming a one-note company.

...there are only so many dial variations one can do. I prefer the classic look of a simple RO, preferably an older model like the PC without the weeks indicator. I am a fan of the Jules Audemars and John Shaeffer lines...

Timeout

Jul 12, 2024

My sentiments exactly!

I make it a point to visit with the staff at AP House in London whenever I visit - but only to enjoy the conversation and hospitality. I’ve got to the end of both recent visits without looking at anything they have - just to keep the communication lines open in the event that they finally visit their back catalogue. The staff are delightful and great ambassadors for the industry - but very much a “one trick pony” these days, albeit great if you’re a fan on the various permutations and combinatio

mdg

Jul 12, 2024

I like many of their watches...

...but did have a bad experience at the NY boutique a few years ago.

GLau

Jul 15, 2024

AP has some classic pieces !

To me AP has been trying to diversify/diversifying with the Code.

Clueless_Collector

Jul 12, 2024

Congrats in advance, Gordon!

No wind, no waves )