Every watch enthusiast knows the name Audemars Piguet and associates it with unparalleled quality and innovation. Today, we're taking a close look at the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel in sleek stainless steel to discover what makes this timepiece a true gem.
What Makes the Double Balance Wheel Special?
Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak collection has always been a symbol of sophistication and engineering excellence. Since its inception in 1972, the Royal Oak has continuously set benchmarks in the luxury watch industry. The Double Balance Wheel variant takes this legacy even further, blending aesthetics with technical brilliance.
So, what sets the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel apart from the rest? The secret lies in its unique mechanism. This model features a patented double balance wheel, which improves precision and stability. By incorporating two balance wheels and two balance springs, Audemars Piguet has significantly reduced the effects of gravity on the movement, ensuring a more accurate timekeeping experience.
A Closer Look at the Design
The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and eye-catching aesthetics. The 41 mm stainless steel case provides a robust framework, complementing the pink-gold-toned openworked movement and inner bezel. This contrast not only enhances the watch's visual appeal but also underscores its contemporary two-tone aesthetic.
- The Case
Audemars Piguet has masterfully crafted the stainless steel case with glareproofed sapphire crystal and a transparent case back. These elements allow enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate workings of the double-balance wheel mechanism. Measuring 9.9 mm in thickness, the case maintains a sleek profile on the wrist while offering a substantial presence.
- The Dial
The dial features a pink gold-toned inner bezel, accompanied by white gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. This thoughtful combination ensures excellent legibility, even in low-light conditions. The openworked design invites light to play across the dial, creating a dynamic visual experience.
- The Bracelet
The integrated stainless steel bracelet, equipped with an AP folding clasp, seamlessly continues the watch's elegant lines. The bracelet's vertical satin-brushed finish and polished bevels add a touch of sophistication, ensuring that it remains comfortable and stylish.
The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked in stainless steel exemplifies Audemars Piguet's blend of aesthetic brilliance and technical innovation, making it a standout for watch enthusiasts. Now let’s explore its intricate components.
The Movement
At the heart of the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked lies the caliber 3132, an in-house selfwinding movement known for its precision and reliability. Developed to enhance chronometric performance and stability, the double-balance wheel architecture is a technical marvel.
The movement boasts hours, minutes, and center seconds functions, making it highly versatile. It features 38 jewels and operates on a selfwinding mechanism, ensuring that it keeps going with minimal manual intervention. With a power reserve of 45 hours, the watch maintains its precision even during extended periods of inactivity. The caliber 3132 has a total diameter of 26.6 mm and is composed of 245 parts, each meticulously crafted and assembled. Operating at a frequency of 3 Hz (21,600 vph), the movement guarantees reliable timekeeping. Its thickness of 4.4 mm adds to the sleek profile of the watch. The movement is not only a feat of engineering but also a work of art, with every component meticulously decorated using traditional techniques.
- The Art of Openworking
Openworking, or skeletonization, has been a specialty of Audemars Piguet since the 1930s. By removing as much material as possible from the mainplate and bridges, the watchmakers create a visually stunning timepiece that allows light to flood the movement from both front and back. This process, executed with CNC machining, involves cutting the elaborately shaped bridges and then decorating them with polished bevels, straight-grained surfaces, and V-angles that can only be achieved by hand.
- Balancing Act
The standout feature of this model is its double balance wheel escapement. Unlike other brands, Audemars Piguet positioned two balance wheels and hairsprings on the same axis, connected via a central balance staff. This unique setup distributes weight evenly, reduces friction, and allows for precise tuning, thanks to the sixteen inertia blocks fitted on the balances.
Unmatched Performance
What sets the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked apart is its exceptional chronometric performance. The double balance wheel mechanism significantly improves the accuracy and stability of the movement by reducing the effects of positional differences. This innovative approach results in a timepiece that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly reliable.
Power Reserve
Despite the complex mechanics, the caliber 3132 boasts a respectable power reserve of 45 hours. This autonomy ensures that the watch maintains its precision even during extended periods of inactivity.
Maintenance and Durability
The robust construction of the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked means that it can withstand the rigors of daily wear. The stainless steel case and bracelet offer excellent resistance to scratches and other forms of wear and tear, while the water resistance of up to 50 meters adds an extra layer of protection.
The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked combines exceptional chronometric performance with robust durability, making it a visually stunning and highly reliable timepiece for any occasion
Conclusion: Is the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Stainless Steel Worth the Investment?
The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel in sleek stainless steel is a masterpiece that perfectly marries striking design with impeccable engineering. This timepiece stands out not just for its visual appeal but also for its innovative double-balance wheel mechanism, ensuring superior accuracy and stability. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, this watch offers an unparalleled blend of style and performance. Given its exceptional craftsmanship, technical sophistication, and notable price point of CHF 66,5001, the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Stainless Steel is indeed worth the investment.
For those captivated by the elegance and precision of Audemars Piguet, Timepiece Trading offers an exceptional selection of luxury watches, including the iconic Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel. Visit Timepiece Trading today to explore our collection, or contact us for personalized service.
