The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ‘Jumbo’ Extra-Thin Openworked (Ref. 16204) extends the series with a new skeletonised version in a yellow gold case. For the current generation (on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak), two Squelette models in stainless steel or rose gold launched. Now a case made of yellow gold is following in its footsteps. While the movement of the rose-gold predecessor was in black, here it is the same colour as the case, creating a harmonious whole new model.
The case measures 39 mm in diameter and remains true to the design of the 1972 icon. Meanwhile, the height of only 8.1 mm ensures an elegant appearance and a fluid transition to the bracelet. The bold gold tone of the 18-carat material is alternately displayed on satin-finished and polished surfaces. Together with the same-colour bridges of the movement, the new model comes together accentuated only by the pink jewels. On the back, the movement shows its reverse side through the sapphire crystal case back. The water resistance is 50 metres.
White gold Royal Oak hands indicate the time together with indices that sit on the flange. All of them have luminescent coating to ensure legibility in dark environments. The brand lettering is printed on the glass. Considering the open dial, the rest of the attention lies on the movement, which presents itself in the same colour as the case. The barrel and the gear train are thus clearly visible, as are the escape wheel and the fork at five o’clock.
Inside beats the 7124 automatic calibre, based on the 7121 series, which launched in 2022 on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the Royal Oak. It was designed to fit exactly into the case of the “Jumbo” and measures only 2.7 mm in height. Nevertheless, it offers a power autonomy of 57 hours and operates at a frequency of 4 hertz. Also, the weights of the balance are integrated into the wheel to prevent air friction.
The calibre shows itself artfully from both sides. The engineers planned the position as well as the geometry of each individual part in order to manufacture them using a CNC process. Lastly follows the finishing with traits tirés, snailing and polished chamfers and a total of 247 polished V-angles.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Openworked is now part of the collection. The price is 128,200 euros.
