In the heart of Le Brassus, Audemars Piguet continues its 150th anniversary celebrations by unveiling a new chapter in its storied horological journey. This September, the Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer introduces three new perpetual calendar models in a refined 38 mm case, available within both the Royal Oak and Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collections. These novelties mark the maison’s first-ever perpetual calendars in this smaller diameter, reflecting a commitment to innovation, ergonomics, and inclusivity while honouring the brand’s deep heritage.
The perpetual calendar complication, one of the most poetic in watchmaking, has long enchanted enthusiasts with its ability to measure time beyond days and months, accounting for leap years and lunar cycles. Historically reserved for larger 41 mm cases, Audemars Piguet now presents this intricate mechanism in 38 mm, making it more versatile and accessible to collectors of all wrist sizes. Each model is powered by the new Calibre 7136 or the recently introduced Calibre 7138—both protected by five patents and designed to combine technical brilliance with ease of use.
The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet reference is offered in 18-carat pink gold, paired with a guilloché green dial designed in collaboration with master artisan Yann Von Kaenel. Its concentric circle motif, punctuated by hundreds of tiny hand-engraved holes, brings luminous depth to the surface. Completed with a green alligator strap, the watch exudes understated sophistication, perfectly embodying the balance of modernity and tradition that defines the collection.
Within the Royal Oak line, two distinctive new models capture the spirit of the iconic design. The stainless-steel version is paired with a light blue “Grande Tapisserie” dial, rhodium-toned counters, and luminescent-coated hands, ensuring striking legibility. Its counterpart in 18-carat pink gold radiates warmth with a beige dial and snailed counters, accented by a deep blue moon-phase display at six o’clock. Both references feature the polished and satin-finished chamfers synonymous with the Royal Oak, allowing light to dance across their surfaces with every movement of the wrist.
Beyond aesthetics, the true innovation lies in the re-engineered perpetual calendar system. Traditionally adjusted through case-side correctors, these new models employ a revolutionary “all-in-the-crown” mechanism that allows all functions to be set intuitively via the crown alone. Protected by multiple patents, this advancement simplifies the experience for collectors, marrying technical sophistication with ergonomic comfort. It is a testament to Audemars Piguet’s dedication to watchmaking as both craft and art of living.
The movement finishing is equally exemplary. Visible through the sapphire caseback, both Calibre 7136 and 7138 feature refined decorations, from Côtes de Genève to satin-finishing and circular graining. A 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight gleams at the heart of the movement, contrasting beautifully with rhodium-plated bridges and underscoring the maison’s commitment to detail.
In keeping with the anniversary celebrations, each reference will also be available in a limited edition of 150 pieces. These commemorative models carry unique design details, including a vintage “Audemars Piguet” signature within the moon phase display and special engravings—“150” and “1 of 150 pieces”—on the caseback, ensuring they remain timeless collectors’ items.
For Chief Executive Officer Ilaria Resta, the release represents a milestone in broadening the reach of complicated watchmaking. “At Audemars Piguet, we believe the passion for watchmaking should be shared with as many people as possible. With the launch of this ergonomic perpetual calendar in a 38 mm size, we invite everyone to dream, and to celebrate 150 years of craftsmanship, innovation, and love for beautiful watches.”
By uniting tradition with pioneering design, these 38 mm perpetual calendars encapsulate the ethos of Audemars Piguet. They are not simply timepieces, but symbols of a maison that has spent 150 years pushing boundaries, inspiring dreams, and crafting mechanical poetry for the wrist.
