Audemars Piguet: Vintage Models & History

Key Points from the Discussion

• The Audemars Piguet [Re]master01, while inspired by vintage chronographs, is perceived as too thick at 15mm, hindering its wearability compared to its 1940s predecessors or even other modern AP chronographs like the 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph (11mm thick) or the Code 11.59 Chronograph (12.6mm thick).
• Audemars Piguet's commitment to the [Re]master series is questioned, as the [Re]master01 is a limited edition and not integrated into a main collection, suggesting a lukewarm approach despite the obvious passion behind its creation.
• The [Re]master01, despite its thickness, is seen by some as a passionate and commercially risky endeavor by AP, demonstrating a willingness to create pieces driven by love for design rather than guaranteed market success.
• The original 1940s chronographs, despite being assembled with third-party movements like the Valjoux 13''' VZ, established a distinct design DNA for Audemars Piguet, which is evident in the [Re]master01.
• The [Re]master01 could have potentially used a thinner movement, such as the Frédéric Piguet-based caliber 2385 found in the Royal Oak, to address concerns about its 15mm thickness.
• The [Re]master01 is considered a strong competitor to other vintage-inspired chronographs like the Vacheron Constantin 'Cornes de Vache', with its current market price making it an attractive option despite its thickness.