AP’s Collaboration with the UAE
While the release did come as a surprise, it has been under development for quite sometime now. Back in June 2022, Audemars Piguet’s “Create the Extraordinary” workshop was held in Dubai where watch collectors engaged directly with the brand. Some of these watch collectors from the Middle East ended up collaborating with AP’s creative teams, resulting in three unique watches that cater to the discerning tastes of the Middle Eastern market.
Here are the three watches that the Swiss watchmaker secretly released this week.
Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin
The centre of attention has been grabbed by the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin. This is one of the first AP watches to feature the innovative Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) for the bezel. This alone will help the watch stand out from other Royal Oak models. With this, the watch sets a new benchmark in durability and aesthetic improvements. What makes this watch special for the Middle East is the satin-brushed smoked ivory dial with Eastern Arabic numerals. The ultra-thin timepiece features a titanium case making it feel much lighter on the wrist.
The reference 26586XT.OO.1240XT.99 special edition timepiece features the perpetual calendar complication with the moonphase indicator. I really appreciate how Audemars Piguet has balanced modern materials with classic design elements. The cultural nod with Arabic numerals is both respectful and aesthetically pleasing.
Code 11.59 with Meteorite Dial
Among the new releases, this is definitely the most stunning-looking option. It features a mesmerizing meteorite dial and the tourbillon complication. They have even given a touch of Arabic here by having the 12, 3 and 9 o’clock markers written in the Arabic language. So everything combined makes this Code 11.59 an extremely special one. The watch has been crafted with the use of Platinum and Black Ceramic materials.
AP definitely likes to use some stand-out dial options when it comes to the Code 11.59 collection and they surely did not disappoint with this one. The flying tourbillon on this reference 26396QT.OO.D009KB.01 adds a layer of technical sophistication that is sure to impress even the most discerning collectors. Making things even more special, there are going to be only 30 of these made making them a rare find over the other Code 11.59 models.
Also Read: Audemars Piguet releases a new Forged Carbon Royal Oak Concept
Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked in White Ceramic
Crafted entirely in white ceramic, this Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked just looks a class apart. While we have seen other white ceramic open-worked watches from the brand before, what makes this one stand out is the Blue aventurine inner bezel, which I believe pictures cannot do justice to.
Even though this one does not get the Arabic touch, it is still a part of the same Middle East collection and has been limited to just 30 pieces.
From the Collectors, For the Collectors
The all-new AP Middle East collection was designed by watch collectors who were invited to an event hosted by AP in Dubai. As an avid watch enthusiast, I am truly impressed not only by this collection but also by the idea. The Swiss watchmaker took the watch community seriously and allowed watch collectors to bring their ideas to life.
Overall, tthese three exceptional timepieces dedicated to the Middle East definitely deserve some attention.
