AllThingsWatches
818
Forged carbon experience
The forged case is jut an amazing material. AP were innovators in this field. They were the first. For a long time they were still the only ones making forged carbon. Other companies tried with a form of carbon fiber but it didn’t have the same characteristics.
I had one of the first pieces in the us from the first batch of alinghis in 2008.
It didn’t suffer from peeling but I did notice that if you took a fingernail you could make some marks. The bezel suffered but it wasn’t so bad. I was careful but wore it almost daily.
AP did get better with time and learned a lot I’m sure as they progressed with bumblebee, diver, trulli, etc.
I have had my Ginza (although not a daily wear piece) since 2011 and it still looks new. The best thing AP did was to use a ceramic bezel as that is the most vulnerable area on the watch. I have worn this watch frequently and taken it around the world. No dents I can notice. Absolutely no peeling.
I would say if you like the look and uniqueness go for it. As you know AP stopped production and only a few special pieces have been made in recent years with this material. I’m sure as time goes on all of these watches will be highly sought after.
Btw that trulli is a great example with the cermet bezel and titanium pushers. Very unique.
Long term durability of forged carbon?
Hi - I’m looking to purchase an AP forged carbon offshore but have noticed mixed reviews on the durability. Interested in what you guys think? (If anyone knows it will be this group) How does it handle daily use, any peeling issues, how do the edges hold ...
+1 I cud point you out to the listings but you gotta do your own research and then decide for yourself. My advise stay away if you wanna hold long term or wear daily. Yes they peel..
...and no they don't keep sharp edges. But short term give them a shot - They are quite different and have their own charm and aesthetic appeal.
First generation of carbon cases seem to peel
I am very happy with my cool RO Jarno Trulli. I have not had any peeling issues with my one y.o. carbon case, with the improved carbon formula. Edges seem to round a bit but it is not noticeable due to the carbon composition. But, let's face it, even stee...
Early gen forged carbon was problematic.
Most models since the past 5-7 years are less of an issue. Yes, rounding was a big problem, as well as delamination / splitting, of first and second gen models including Alinghi Team and Grand Prix. That said, I still love my full carbon Grand Prix.
I know one thing!
The higher up the horlogy chain you go the more finicky and pain in the A everything becomes! So if I was you I would stick to an in warranty steel piece or else you risk of a very high repair bill. I can’t even get a replacement screw for a rubber strap ...
Carbon is like hard plastic
It scratches and dents. You cannot repair it or polish. In the long run it is definitely not the best material for a case.
Forged carbon experience
The forged case is jut an amazing material. AP were innovators in this field. They were the first. For a long time they were still the only ones making forged carbon. Other companies tried with a form of carbon fiber but it didn’t have the same characteri...
100% Perfect
i’ve had the Audemars Piguet Ginza 7 for over 7 years now. Absolutely perfect. No delamination whatsoever. Lines remain clean and defined. It’s an extremely hardy material, resistant to most dings and scratches unless you happen to pick a fight with a sle...