Audemars Piguet’s latest Concept model is a jewellery watch for the next generation.
Audemars Piguet’s latest Concept model is a jewellery watch for the next generation.
MOVEMENT Manually wound in-house Calibre 2964 with 72-hour power reserve
CASE 38.5mm in 18-carat pink gold or white gold
PRICE Price upon request
WHAT IT IS
For most brands, a concept watch refers to a prototype housing their latest technological advancements, and is for show rather than for sale. Not so for Audemars Piguet. Its Royal Oak Concept models, showcasing its most avant-garde designs and micromechanics, are commercially available, albeit in limited quantities. The first Concept watch was launched in 2002 to mark the 30th anniversary of the Royal Oak. In 2018, it launched its first female Concept timepiece: the Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon. This year, the brand introduces a new version of that feminine watch, the Royal Oak Concept Frosted Gold Flying Tourbillon.
HOW IT LOOKS
While its predecessor was all sharp edges and angles, the Royal Oak Concept Frosted Gold Flying Tourbillon offers a calmer but still vibrant aesthetic. Reminiscent of ripples on a pond, the dial of this 38.5mm watch features four overlapping circles in gradated shades of blue that seem to emanate from the flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock. The tourbillon cage echoes this motif with openworked circles topped by a smattering of brilliant-cut diamonds. That’s the only spot with diamonds – good news for women watch lovers who don’t enjoy an abundance of gemstones on their timepieces.
HOW IT WEARS
In pink or white gold, the case has a unique shimmer, courtesy of an ancient Florentine jewellery hammering technique that was updated by jewellery designer Caroline Bucci. Brilliant with an edgy texture, and unfussy yet dramatic, the Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon redefines the concept of a jewellery watch for the next generation of enthusiasts.
