Wow.
After 20 years of collecting AP, beginning with the Beast, and a multitude of incredible timepieces, boutiques, Houses, representatives, and collectors, I am absolutely thrilled and humbled at the opportunity to get this incredible piece - the Openworked Ceramic Perpetual 26585CE.
It's a bit of an incredible dream come true after two decades of an extraordinary journey with AP - and to receive this particular model - was a huge surprise and delight. I've been most recently a huge fan of ceramics, especially for their wear resistance (owning the 26579CE), but have not had the opportunity to get any openworked pieces from AP.
After reading a lot about the incredible history and expertise of AP especially in openworking, I was always waiting for any openworked pieces, as it represents a bit of the pinnacle of the savoir-faire and craftsmanship in AP's history. Furthermore, coupled with the Perpetual Calendar complication - this perhaps was a grail because I was always hunting for a stainless Perpetual Skeleton (25829) but losing on a few auctions. Unique to this piece - is the significant and haute level of finishing throughout - including a generous helping of inward angles throughout the movement. Compared to my 26579, there is truly another level of finishing throughout - which I believe essentially is consistent with the early skeleton perpetuals (future photos to follow later!).
Adding on top of that the fact that it is a Perpetual movement, and a ceramic case - for me - mixes the best of the best of the original RO Perpetual Skeletons and the new innovation of the Ceramic case.
Wow. Just Amazing!
So after wearing this, all giddy on my wrist, I had a brief moment whether this "was the end" of my collecting journey that I started 20 years ago? Did I reach "peak watch" so to speak for AP, or other?
Well no surprise - i feel it's really just the beginning of another chapter in my journey of embracing the marque! First, I've decided to go to less with other brands. Second, I will be looking more at vintage pieces from AP that represent its history. And third, perhaps the most exciting, is the opportunity to look at further higher complications and models (i still don't have a concept!).
Anyway, wanted to share some giddiness, some excitement, some gratitude, and some love for AP
And here are the photos! (More pics and comparisons planned).
Cheers
Peter