Audemars Piguet 2024 Novelties: Quick Glance

MichaelC · 2024-03-07T18:48:15Z

Explore Audemars Piguet's 2024 novelties, including the John Mayer Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar and 'Sand Gold' Flying Tourbillon. Get collector insights on design, specs, and market trends.

MichaelC

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

23 replies8447 views5 photos

MichaelC's initial look at Audemars Piguet's 2024 novelties offers a crucial first glimpse into the brand's direction for the year. His post, featuring the John Mayer Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar and the innovative 'Sand Gold' material, serves as an essential starting point for collectors to discuss AP's latest designs, technical specifications, and market positioning. This early insight helps the community evaluate how these new references align with Audemars Piguet's heritage and future trajectory.

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As is the way these past 5+ years, I receive random emails with press releases. For now, I will post a selection of photos, and we can revisit later (usually by the time I get a post up, 5 members have already shared all the details anyways!!).

John Mayer Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar (at this rate, I am happily going to hold out for the Iron Maiden edition):

43mm Royal Oak Offshore with rubberlcad (!) bezel:

39mm Royal Oak Openworked in white gold:

And a new material here, "Sand Gold", on the 41mm Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Openworked:

There are some other Code 11.59s, a Royal Oak Chronograph in yellow gold, etc., that I will get to ASAP.

About the Rolex Chronograph Ref. 116508

The Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 reference 116508 is a notable entry within the brand's contemporary collection, distinguished by its innovative case construction and refined aesthetics. This particular reference is recognized for its use of 18k yellow gold, offering a classic yet modern interpretation of the Code 11.59 design language. It represents Audemars Piguet's commitment to exploring new forms and materials while maintaining a high standard of horological craftsmanship.

The watch features a 40mm case crafted from 18k yellow gold, housing an automatic movement. The dial is presented in a vibrant green, complemented by a fixed tachymeter bezel. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and durability. The movement provides a power reserve of 72 hours and is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it suitable for daily wear.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in Audemars Piguet's modern offerings and those seeking a distinctive timepiece that combines traditional precious metal with a contemporary design. Its yellow gold Oyster bracelet integrates seamlessly with the case, enhancing its cohesive appearance. The production period for this reference spans from 2016 to 2023, indicating its availability over several years within the brand's catalog.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal. 4130

Case: 18k yellow gold

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: green

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The John Mayer Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar and other new AP releases are criticized for having insufficient water resistance (20m) and a short power reserve (40 hours) for their price point, especially when compared to competitors like A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus or H. Moser & Cie Streamliner.
Despite lower stated water resistance, some collectors have successfully used AP watches in pools and oceans, though regular seal checks are advised. An anecdote highlights a Patek Philippe 5164 with a higher 120m WR still experiencing water spots after light snorkeling, suggesting real-world performance can vary.
The new 'Sand Gold' material for the 41mm Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Openworked is highly praised for its understated and suave color, fulfilling prior rumors. The rubberclad bezel on the 43mm Royal Oak Offshore also receives positive remarks for its phenomenal look, despite being considered slightly too large.
There is skepticism regarding the long-term market premium for these new releases, with predictions that grey market prices will likely stabilize close to retail, reflecting a broader trend observed across the AP collection over the past year.
A sentiment exists that Audemars Piguet should move away from celebrity collaborations, questioning the genuine appeal and sales impact of watches branded with names like John Mayer beyond a niche audience.
The original author confirms that more Audemars Piguet releases are expected throughout the year, consistent with the brand's recent strategy of staggered novelties.

The Discussion

gary_g

Mar 7, 2024

I love JM. And the dial on his AP is amazing.

Just wish it wasn’t a RO…

andrea~

Mar 8, 2024

Big JM fan over here!

The dial is fantastic

TeutonicCarFan

Mar 7, 2024

I like the colors and dial treatment on the JM

mdg

Mar 7, 2024

I like the 'basic' Offshore, but...

...could we please stop with the idiotic celebrity watches? Will anyone one earth except John Mayer's family buy this watch because of his name?

gary_g

Mar 7, 2024

It’ll be impossible to get and will go for multiples of retail on secondary market.

I’m not saying it’s a good thing. It’s just a thing with AP right now.

als1678

Mar 8, 2024

I honestly doubt it - AP has massively increased prices and the demand is not there anymore.

They will sell, but my guess is that the grey market would be very close to the retail price (200K) - over the past year the majority of the AP collection has reached a similar equilibrium.