FEATURED: AUDEMARS PIGUET drops three diamond-set versions of the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra thin.
3 min read
Did someone say, “Gender Neutral”?
2020 saw the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra thin in platinum and rose gold cases with diamond indexes. Taking it a notch higher this year, Audemars Piguet has dropped three iced out versions of a collection that has been around since 1972.
In addition to the brand’s name positioned below noon, an “AP” logo is located in the lower portion of the dial, consistent with “Jumbo” convention. Each of these is housed in a 39mm case, executed in 18-carat pink or white gold. The case, bezel and bracelet are dressed with 1,102 brilliant-cut diamonds (〜7.09 carats).
Although these new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra thin are quite delectable at the face of it, turn it around and you won’t be disappointed. Visible via the glare proof sapphire caseback is the Manufacture Calibre 2121, a movement is equipped with an openworked, bidirectional 22-carat gold oscillating weight, conveniently harnessing the motion of your wrist to power the watch. Encompassing both Clous de Paris and satin-brushing, the oscillating weight here is hand finished. The movement also incorporates hand finishing on the bridges and mainplate, utilising the expertise of the Manufacture’s craftspeople. This includes “Côtes de Genève,” polished bevels, satin-brushed edges and circular graining on the recesses.
Considering the current global situation, I would have expected a more conservative approach from Audemars Piguet, but I guess with François-Henry Bennahmias at the helm of things you can’t expect any less. Personally, I love them. Would I buy a diamond-encrusted Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-thin? I would! But if you are one of those who want an “RIO” on your watch, you can slash this one off your list.
These new versions of the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin blend brilliant-cut diamonds and fine watchmaking in a free-spirited design, employing the many skills practiced in Le Brassus.
