Manufacture
TonyR's account of Audemars Piguet's 'Collection of Inspiration' event in NYC offers a vivid glimpse into the luxury brand experience beyond just watches. This article captures the ambiance of a high-end collector event, detailing the exquisite culinary pairings and the presence of key AP figures. TonyR's narrative provides valuable insight into how Audemars Piguet cultivates community and showcases its new releases in an immersive setting.
Last night a number of guests were invited to attend a very special event unveiling Audemars Piguet’s new 2010 masterpieces at the boutique on 57th street in NYC. The event was co-hosted by AP's North American President and CEO Francois-Henry Bennahmias and Cos d' Estournel which is a fabulous St. Estephe, Bordeaux, wine producer. (TM: edited to correct typo) We were all treated to an outstanding five course meal along with presentations of the new releases.  As a watch enthusiast Audemars Piguet's new boutique on 57th street is a must see if you come to visit New York. They moved from across the street almost a year ago and I have to say that the new space is breath taking, it was very dark when we arrived so it's hard to see from the photos but trust me it’s a must see!
Some photos of the table as we sat down.....
Francois had AP's museum director, Martin Wehrli, over for the event. Martin has to be the most knowledgeable Audemars Piguet enthusiat in the world, it was a pleasure to hear him speak!
Here was Francois warming up our other gracious co-host from Cos d' Estornel......
This was one of the five wines we tried last night, all five were delicious and it seemed that each one got better than the next.........
The wine list, all were paired very nicely with our respective courses..........
The food lineup........
The courses were so good that a couple of times I had forgotten to take a photo by the time I remembered it was too late!!! At least there are two to look at!........
A little later in the night I was able to go behind the watchmaker’s bench and he allowed me to photograph a couple of the movements that he was working on. I didn't catch the watchmakers name be he was very nice. Here are some photos of a 15300 caliber that he was working on, it’s even more beautiful outside of the case.......
 
Here is a photo of the other movement that he was working on, it is the base chrono movement inside of a Royal Oak Chronograph......
Now to the highlights of the night, the watches! Photographing them was a little challenging as it was dark and the flash had an unusual reflection that bounced off the outer case but I did the best I could.....
This Jules Audemars skeleton tourbillon was one of my favorites...
Some Royal Oak's........
Some Millenary's.........
Here was another one of AP's highlights of the night, a rarely seen Jules Audemars Grande Complication.........
A Jules Audemars hand-wound chronometer with small seconds that I actually got to photograph outside of the case......
Here are some wrist shots of two very nice ladies models. The first is a perpetual calendar and the second is a minute repeater.......
Last but certainly not least, my personal favorite of the night. A Jules Audemars minute repeater watch with jumping hours. This watch is stunning in person as you could imagine. At 43mm's it is substantial for the type of watch it is but I really like it. The piece was actually inspired by a pocket watch made by Audemars many years ago. I'd love to own this one someday!
I hope you enjoyed all the photos, I must say that I was very impressed with all of the watches. I know most of us focus on the Royal Oak's but the Jules Audemars pieces should not be missed! I look forward to seeing many more pictures of these pieces on our wrists in the near future!
Tony
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This message has been edited by TonyR on 2010-10-14 19:16:06 This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2010-10-14 20:39:06
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This message has been edited by MTF on 2010-10-15 11:21:22 This message has been edited by ThomasM on 2010-10-21 09:13:34The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 15300 represents a significant evolution within the Royal Oak lineage, succeeding the 15202 "Jumbo" and preceding the 15400. It introduced a slightly more robust case and an in-house movement, distinguishing it from earlier models that often utilized Jaeger-LeCoultre base calibers. This reference maintained the classic GĂ©rald Genta-designed aesthetic while offering a contemporary update in terms of its mechanical heart and wearability for a broader audience. It is often considered a transitional reference, bridging the gap between vintage and modern Royal Oak interpretations.
This reference features a 39 mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 9.4 mm, maintaining the characteristic octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws. The watch is powered by the in-house Audemars Piguet Caliber 3120, an automatic movement known for its robust construction and a power reserve of 60 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, and the watch offers a water resistance of 50 meters. The integrated stainless steel bracelet is a hallmark of the Royal Oak design, ensuring a cohesive and comfortable fit.
For collectors, the 15300 is appealing due to its balanced proportions, which are often preferred over the larger 41 mm cases of subsequent references. Its in-house movement also adds to its desirability, marking a period of increased manufacturing independence for Audemars Piguet. The reference was produced with various dial colors, including blue, black, and white, offering collectors choices within this specific model run. The production period from 2005 to 2012 makes it a neo-vintage piece with a distinct place in the Royal Oak's history.
Nice setting. Makes me want to go back to NYC...... I agree that Jules Audemars line should not be missed or dismissed because generally I like them more than ROO line... Will report if/when similar event are to be held in Tokyo. Thanks again. Ken
Ah! that skeleton Royal Oak Perpetual!! So beautiful! Another night of fabulous food, wine, and nice watches. no doubt=) Gosh, how I miss New York... Jon (Z3)
... that you labelled Cos D'Estournel a Hungarian wine.... It is located in one of France most renowned wine areas, between Pauillac and Saint-Estèphe. Certainly considered one of the upper tier French wines.
Although there was some sort of reference to Hungary and the wine. It must have been made in conjunction with another wine that was shared there that night. Maybe someone else that was at the event could help me out here! Tony This message has been edited by TonyR on 2010-10-15 04:44:18
Our taxes in the area will inevitably go up seeing that you both are gone now! Tony
I must have just missed you, and sorry I did. Thank you very much for the report, and I hope all is well!
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