Possessing an elegant and restrained mid-century design, this vintage Audemars Piguet piece bears all the hallmarks of a classic dress watch, combined with an ultra-thin movement and corresponding slim profile. Though it was produced several decades ago, it remains preserved in wonderful condition, from the sharp case to the deep blue of the dial.
An intriguing representative of the period, this watch demonstrates how different variations on the dress watch can be found across vintage examples. The piece is distinguished by long, slim hour markers and baton hands, with a deep-blue dial that possesses a texture reminiscent of denim. If you look closely, the dial features an intriguing “Audemars, Piguet” signature at 12 o’clock which reminds us of signing conventions during the early 20th century, when the comma was a reminder that brand names were the combination of two family names, usually those of the founders of the brand.
In many ways, this watch represents the end of truly handmade watchmaking, before the industry transitioned to industrialisation. From the case to the dial, you can see the care and attention to detail, which marks the end of this hand-made period, arguably embodying an interesting combination of traditional and modern. Whereas this is not the watch that most people would think of when one mentions a white metal Audemars Piguet with a blue dial, it a welcome reminder of what the manufacture produced in its past.
If sold within the United Kingdom, this Audemars Piguet Ultra-thin Dress Watch will be subject to 20% VAT.