Audemars Piguet Quantième Perpétuel

Description

Quand la fonction embrasse l’élégance

In 1978, Audemars Piguet introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the form of the world's thinnest self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch. The project was initially shrouded in secrecy because it defied the prevailing trend favouring smaller quartz watches.
A trio of watchmakers' innovative approach involved adapting and integrating a calendar module into the base of the calibre 2120 movement, which had been previously launched in 1967. This clandestine project resulted in an ultra-thin 3.95mm calibre, a testament to their dedication and vision.
Georges Golay, the Chief Executive of Audemars Piguet at the time, quickly recognised the significance of their work and decided to commission a production run of 159 perpetual calendars. This decision turned out to be a resounding success, offering stability and, more importantly, fostering growth for the company during a tumultuous period marked by the dominance of quartz technology.

While the Royal Oak often receives credit for rescuing Audemars Piguet during the quartz crisis, the role played by the perpetual calendar is often overlooked. This new perpetual calendar calibre not only provided stability but also significantly contributed to the company's expansion. The workforce nearly doubled under its tenure.

The specifications of these remarkable timepieces include a 36mm case diameter, with a thickness of 7mm which housed the ultra-thin calibre 2120/2800 automatic perpetual calendar movement. The dial featured four symmetrical white subsidiary dials indicating the month, date, moon phase, and day.
This watch stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. It not only reflects the evolution of design and functionality but also played a pivotal role in securing the brand's future during a challenging period in the watchmaking industry.