Launched in 1978, the Quantième Perpétuel was the world’s thinnest automatic perpetual calendar. Created during a time when the watchmaking industry was battling to stay afloat amidst the Quartz Crisis, the Quantième Perpétuel fought against the tides of change to uphold traditional watchmaking techniques.

This reference was created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the model, and it was limited to 50 pieces, exclusively retailed in Germany, according to the accompanying documentation. The watch is engraved on the reverse side of the case with its unique number in the series. The earlier pieces of the Quantième Perpétuel is rarely seen with a stone dial, making this piece an intriguing find for collectors searching for an unusual example of the model.

This reference retains the typical layout that was originally penned by Jacqueline Dimier. The perpetual calendar indications are laid out in an intuitive manner: the date and day are shown at 3 and 9 o’clock respectively, with the months displayed at 12 o’clock. A moonphase indication is placed at 6 o’clock, with graduations for the moon position just above.

The watch is powered by the automatic calibre 2120/2, an ultra-thin movement which was derived from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s legendary ultra-thin JLC 920 movement. The Caliber 2120 was an initial project of Jaeger LeCoultre in 1967, funded and contributed by Audemars Piguet, and famous for its adoption by Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. The movement can be viewed through the sapphire caseback, which displays hand-engraved patterns, in addition to beautiful finishing.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Audemars Piguet Quantième Perpétuel Edition Spéciale will be subject to 20% VAT.

Closer look

This Audemars Piguet Quantième Perpétuel is in very good condition throughout. The case and lugs show virtually no signs or wear. The hallmarks on the side of the case as well as the engravings on the case back are crisp and well defined. The Mother of Pearl dial has a hairline mark in the 12 and 3 o’clock sub dials, commonly found with MOP dials from this period. It is accompanied by the Certificate of Authenticity, noting the unique number with the series, along with the German retailer stamp and date. The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.