When it comes to celebrating a milestone, Audemars Piguet isn’t just cutting a cake and calling it a day. Nope, AP is going all out with a watch that’s as legendary as the brand itself. And honestly? We wouldn’t expect anything less.
So, how does AP mark 150 years of watchmaking excellence? By crafting the Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked Ref. 26585XT.OO.1220XT.01, a watch that makes collectors do a double take. This edition brings something truly special to the table. It’s a piece of history, a farewell to a legendary movement, and a serious flex all rolled into one.
If we’re being real, this isn’t the kind of watch you glance at and move on. It stops you in your tracks. It’s the last model to house the Caliber 5135, the movement that has powered AP’s 41mm openworked perpetual calendars for nearly a decade. That alone makes it special. But AP didn’t just retire the movement quietly, they sent it off in serious style. This watch is like a grand finale fireworks show, a mic drop moment, and a collector’s dream all in one sleek titanium and Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) package.
Imagine strapping a piece of history onto your wrist, something that marks the end of an era and the start of what’s next. That’s exactly what AP has given us, and honestly? We can’t stop staring.
What Makes the Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary Watch Special?
First off, let’s talk about what makes the Audemars Piguet 150th anniversary watch special. Sure, hitting 150 years is a big deal, but what really stands out is how it mixes cutting-edge tech with a design that stays true to its roots. The watch pairs a high-tech titanium and Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) case with a design inspired by a vintage AP pocket watch. Yes, that’s right, it’s as sturdy as it is chic, a real conversation starter at any gathering.
But it’s not just about looking good. The openworked dial is like a window into the soul of the watch, showcasing the intricate workings of the Caliber 5135 with every tick. It’s this blend of old and new, heritage and innovation, that makes the Audemars Piguet 150 years celebration something we can’t help but talk about.
Design Inspired by a Vintage Pocket Watch
Here’s something cool: the dial on the Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary watch wasn’t chosen at random. It takes inspiration from an old AP pocket watch, reference 25729, proudly displayed in the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet. The deep blue sub-dials, vintage-style numerals, and elegant “bathtub” hands all pay tribute to that historic piece.
But AP didn’t stop at just borrowing design cues. They elevated the look with a sapphire dial, giving the entire face an airy, almost floating effect. Framing the blue sub-dials are sleek counter surrounds that create a sense of depth, while a matching inner bezel keeps everything visually cohesive. The hour markers, crafted from 18-carat white gold, bring in a touch of refinement, perfectly complementing the cool tones of the dial. And let’s talk about those hands: bathtub-shaped and filled with luminescent material, they add both character and function, making it easy to read in low light.
This mix of vintage charm and modern materials gives the watch a truly timeless feel. It looks just as at home on the wrist of an AP collector today as it would in a museum a hundred years from now. That kind of lasting appeal isn’t easy to pull off, but AP makes it look effortless.
A Final Farewell to the Caliber 5135
Now, let’s take a moment because this is a big deal. For us watch lovers, what’s inside matters just as much (if not more) than what’s on the outside. And this time, what’s inside is about to ride off into the sunset.
The Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked is the last AP to feature the Caliber 5135, the movement that’s been the heartbeat of AP’s openworked perpetual calendars for nearly a decade. And honestly? That hits a little differently.
The Caliber 5135 stands out as an ultra-thin, self-winding powerhouse that tracks the day, date, month, leap years, and moon phases without needing a reset until 2100. That’s right, this watch is thinking way ahead, doing all the heavy lifting while we sit back and admire. And since it’s openworked, we don’t just take its word for it, we actually see it in action. The gears, the wheels, the rhythm of its movement, it’s like a mechanical symphony playing right there on your wrist.
But here’s the thing: once these 150 watches are spoken for, that’s it. No more Caliber 5135 in production. No second chances. And let’s be honest, that stings a little. This movement has been a defining part of AP’s legacy, and it deserved a sendoff worthy of its impact. Thankfully, AP did just that. They immortalized it in one of the most visually stunning, technically impressive watches we’ve seen in a long time.
For collectors, this is the kind of watch that gets passed down, talked about and envied.
A True Collector’s Gem
Here’s where it gets even more interesting. Only 150 of these beauties were made. That’s right, it’s as exclusive as it gets. Owning one of these isn’t just a matter of having deep pockets; it’s about being at the right place at the right time, and probably knowing the right people. Each piece is a tribute to AP's 150th anniversary, crafted with such precision and care that you can’t help but feel a bit of awe.
This Audemars Piguet Limited Edition release is a real gem for collectors. It’s a watch that carries a piece of Audemars Piguet’s soul. It tells a story of 150 years of highs and lows, of staying true to its roots while boldly pushing into the future. That kind of history makes it even more special to wear on the wrist.
Where to Find the Best Audemars Piguet Watches
If the Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary watch caught your attention, you’re clearly someone who appreciates fine timepieces. Whether you’re searching for a rare Audemars Piguet Limited Edition, or an iconic Royal Oak to add to your collection, there’s only one place to turn: Timepiece Trading.
At Timepiece Trading, you’ll find a curated selection of high-end watches, including some of the most sought-after models on the market such as the Audemars Piguet Limited Edition. Contact us here and let us help you find your next masterpiece. Because when it comes to watches like the Audemars Piguet 150th Anniversary Royal Oak, timing is everything.
