Audemars Piguet showcases the idea that “two is better than one” with the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked. This popular collector’s watch features two balance wheels, enhancing both accuracy and visual appeal.
After recently unveiling a 37mm gold version, AP now presents three new 41mm models. These come in steel, black ceramic, and 18k yellow gold cases, each with contrasting colours highlighting the openworked design of calibre 3132.
The 41mm case, standing at a sleek 9.9mm height, showcases the iconic features of the Royal Oak, the distinctive octagonal bezel secured by eight screws and the integrated bracelet. Its design features vertical satin-brushed surfaces and sharply polished edges, highlighting the unmistakable geometry of the Royal Oak. However, in the case of the ceramic model, achieving these finishes takes five times longer compared to the metal versions.
Although black ceramic, gold, and steel are familiar case materials for the 41mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked, the interplay between the case and movement is striking. The steel and black ceramic versions, with their pink gold-toned openwork displays, are especially eye-catching.
Adding to this contrast, the black ceramic and steel models incorporate rose gold screws that complement the movement’s colour. Meanwhile, the yellow gold model highlights the intricate components of calibre 3120 with an anthracite movement.
Audemars Piguet has specialised in openworking since the 1930s. This technique involves removing as much material as possible from the mainplate and bridges, allowing light to illuminate the movement from both sides.
Elaborately shaped bridges are crafted using CNC machining and then meticulously finished by hand. These finishes include polished bevels, straight-grained surfaces, and V-angles, adding to the movement’s intricate beauty and craftsmanship.
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In addition to the visible balance wheels on the dial and caseback, you can easily see the gear train and mainspring. To improve legibility, a common challenge with skeletonised watches, the hour and minute hands, as well as the applied hour indices on the flange, feature thin luminescent inserts. Despite the 3Hz frequency of the balance wheels, which requires significant power, the calibre 3132 still provides a respectable power reserve of 45 hours.
If you want to know more about the Audemars Piguet collection, discover it online or visit The Time Place boutique for more information.
