Audemars Piguet
Reference 35693BA | A unique yellow gold skeletonized wristwatch | Circa 1983
Auction Closed
May 10, 02:36 PM GMT
Estimate
11,000 - 22,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: skeletonized
Calibre: cal. 5020 manual winding, 20 jewels
Movement number: 227'532
Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on sapphire crystal display case back
Case number: B46'102
Closure: 18k yellow gold Audemars Piguet folding clasp
Size: 42 mm diameter
Signed: case and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Audemars Piguet Certificate of Authenticity, notepad and presentation box with outer packaging
Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.
Audemars Piguet has long been revered for its unparalleled artistry in skeletonisation, creating timepieces that transcend functionality to become works of art.
The present Reference 35693BA, dating from the early 1980's, is a superb reflection of this tradition.
This unique piece, as confirmed by the Certificat d'Authenticité et d'Exclusivité accompanying the watch, is encased in glowing yellow gold. It harmonises technical brilliance with extraordinary aesthetic allure.
What elevates this piece to a true rarity is the possibility that it was a special commission. Audemars Piguet has long been known for creating bespoke pieces for discerning clients, and the unique combination of the oversized case, housing the ultra thin skeletonized movement, designed as a pocket watch but made with lugs to be worn as a wristwatch strongly suggests that this was no ordinary production watch.
The skeletonised movement is based on the Calibre 5020. This manual movement is highly praised by collectors for its ultra thin and intricate architecture. It is the perfect canvas for skilled watchmakers to create a superb fully hand decorated masterpiece. On this lot, each component has been exquisitely hollowed out, revealing the mechanical heart of the watch in a stunning display of craftsmanship. The gear trains, escapement, and barrel spring are all laid bare, allowing the wearer to witness the intricate interplay of parts that bring the timepiece to life. Audemars Piguet, always at the forefront of this delicate craft, created an atelier dedicated exclusively to openworking, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in this horological art.
Recently discovered in a private collection and fresh to the market, this timepiece is an important discovery that does not only exemplifies the maison’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering, but also likely represents a highly exclusive creation, tailored for a collector who sought something truly unique. Its rarity, combined with the extraordinary craftsmanship and audacious design, makes it a treasure for the connoisseur, an emblem of both technical prowess and luxurious artistry.