In Depth Audemars Piguet Unveils Middle East Special Edition Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel

Audemars Piguet first unveiled the Double Balance Wheel mechanism in 2016, a patented innovation that enhances precision and stability by incorporating two balance wheels and two hairsprings on a single axis. This groundbreaking design allows the balance wheels to oscillate in perfect synchrony, effectively reducing rate variations and significantly improving timekeeping accuracy.

Over the years, Audemars Piguet has expanded this line with various models, including versions in stainless steel, pink gold, yellow gold, and black ceramic. At the beginning of 2024, the brand introduced new references that explore contrasting materials, such as steel, black ceramic with golden dials, and a yellow gold edition paired with an anthracite grey openworked dial. Now, as a special edition exclusive to the Middle East, AP has unveiled a striking white ceramic edition.

This special edition, along with two other models, was conceived in collaboration with loyal collectors from the United Arab Emirates. These collectors participated in the Create the Extraordinary workshop held in Dubai in June 2022, an unprecedented initiative in the world of fine watchmaking. To commemorate this collaboration, the caseback of each piece is engraved with the words “Special Edition” and “Create the Extraordinary.” Combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, these references embody the passion, spirit of innovation, and collaborative ethos that Audemars Piguet has nurtured for generations.

The 41 mm case, measuring a mere 9.7 mm in thickness, is crafted for the first time in white ceramic. It is topped with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a sapphire crystal caseback, ensuring 50 meters of water resistance. Speaking of size, the Royal Oak Double Balance Weel Openworked watches are available in smaller 37mm cases.

The openworked dial of this special edition features rhodium-plated bridges and movement components. Encircling the dial is a blue aventurine inner bezel, a first for this collection, complemented by white gold applied hour indices. The blackened white gold Royal Oak hands are equipped with luminescent material for optimal legibility.

The intricate mechanism showcases one balance wheel positioned between 7 and 8 o’clock on the dial, while the mainspring is located at 2 o'clock. Skeletonized bridges and a main plate provide a clear view of the movement's inner workings.

This dual balance wheel mechanism, with each balance wheel equipped with its own hairspring, averages out positional errors and enhances overall stability for greater timekeeping accuracy. While one balance wheel is visible on the dial side, the other can be admired through the sapphire caseback.

Powering this exceptional timepiece is the automatic openworked Caliber 3132, an in-house movement developed and manufactured by Audemars Piguet. This movement features a double balance wheel system and a skeletonized oscillating weight, beautifully showcasing its intricate mechanics. Composed of 245 components, the Caliber 3132 operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and offers a power reserve of 45 hours.

The watch is fitted with an integrated white ceramic bracelet, secured with a gold AP folding clasp. Limited to just 30 pieces, this exclusive edition is available by request.

For more information visit the official website of Audemars Piguet.