Ornatus-Mundi[Zenith]
7136
Hands on with Royal Oak Ref. 15402 and 26322 – 41mm, pink gold - diamondised
Mar 01, 2014,23:53 PM
Let's start (again) with a look back into AP's history - which proves one fact: Watches for women have a long and strong history at Audemars Piguet!
Two novelties were presented this year, both in 41mm and with admirable gem-setting work, the Royal Oak Automatic and the Automatic Chronograph :
Some may argue if a 41mm watch is only for woman, just because there are diamonds. Well, it is not – because there are different tastes/lifestyles in different parts of the world. Still at AP they are part of their watches dedicated for woman.
We want to show the 'simple' automatic version (driven by the in-house Cal. 3120) first because its such a magnificent showcase of excellent detail-work:
Now first take a close look at the dial: Up to the inner tips of the indices of the diamond-paved dial are set in a circular order, while at the inner section the pattern follows horizontal lines:
Even closer you see that the inscription is steam-applied on the inner surface of the crystal:
Even the buckle is aptly decorated and gem-set:
If there ever was a 'bling watch without blinging' - here it is:
"A watch for women who appreciate the paradox of a robust,
legendary sports watch adorned with a scintillating mantle of diamonds." [AP Press Kit]
YES, but not only women...!
Same general theme for the Automatic Chronograph (movement: Cal. 2385; Piguet 1185 based), according to AP the
"... most rugged sports performer in the audemars piguet family,
appears as a stunning haute joaillerie model for the first time since its debut in 1997." [AP Press Kit]
Obviously the subdials make it impossible to follow the circular/horizontal distinction as with the three-hand sister, but instead AP made use of every tiny surface to set it with diamonds:
Pro:
• Exquisite gem-setting with great respect to the design concept
• In-house movement (automatic)
Con:
• Lack of display back (maybe relevant for us only...)
• Contrast may be a bit on the low side
• Gold watch with bracelet a bit heavy
This message has been edited by Ornatus-Mundi on 2014-03-04 08:10:07