Audemars Piguet John Shaeffer Star Wheel Value
Vintage

Audemars Piguet John Shaeffer Star Wheel Value

By sham1 · May 15, 2019 · 78 replies
sham1
WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum
78 replies21658 views2 photos
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Sham1's original post highlights Audemars Piguet's often-overlooked dress watches from two decades ago, particularly the minute repeaters and the unique Star Wheel. This piece delves into their current value on the used market, prompting a discussion about their historical significance and contemporary appeal.

Some of us may forget that two decades ago before the Royal Oak became so popular, Audemars Piguet were making some astonishing dress watches.  Fortunately for me, these watches now offer excellent value for money in the used market and I am considering placing a bid at a forthcoming auction for one of these!  At 33mm in diameter, it is a size that I am comfortable with and Audemars Piguet's minute repeaters offer a clarity that most aspire to.  Which one though is a quite a tough question. The John Shaeffer Star Wheel is a unique way of telling the time where the hour discs rotate and point towards the minute scale to tell the time (11.02 in the photo). The detailing on the skeleton watch which extends to the movement is quite a sight to behold although one might argue it is not so easy to tell the time. The fact that both watches are in platinum and the Star Wheel is limited to only ten pieces make either of these watches a compelling buy.  

Thank you for reading!



Watch by Audemars Piguet, AP Limited Edition, John Shaeffer

The Star Wheel is a AP at its creative best in the 90s.


Watch by Audemars Piguet, AP Limited Edition, John Shaeffer

Notice the engraved movement!


About the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Ref. 15305

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 15305 is a notable variant within the Royal Oak line, distinguished by its openworked dial and movement, offering a direct view into the intricate mechanics. This reference represents a more elaborate and technically complex interpretation of the standard Royal Oak, appealing to collectors who appreciate haute horlogerie and the art of skeletonization. It was produced in limited quantities, making it a less common sight compared to its solid-dial counterparts. The openworked design allows for an appreciation of the finishing and architecture of the movement, a hallmark of Audemars Piguet's craftsmanship.

The watch features a 39 mm case crafted from 18k yellow gold, maintaining the classic Royal Oak proportions. It houses the self-winding Caliber 3120, which is meticulously openworked and finished to expose its components. The movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, and the watch is water-resistant to 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The fixed octagonal bezel, a signature element of the Royal Oak, is also in 18k yellow gold.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Royal Oak with an enhanced level of mechanical artistry and exclusivity. Its openworked nature sets it apart from more common Royal Oak models, positioning it as a piece that highlights Audemars Piguet's technical prowess in movement decoration and design. The 18k yellow gold construction further emphasizes its premium status. While not a double-signed piece as mentioned in the collector's post, the 15305 stands on its own as a significant openworked Royal Oak.

Specifications

Caliber
3120
Case
18k Yellow Gold
Diameter
39 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CH
ChristianDK
May 15, 2019

Thank you, Sham for posting this masterpiece

SH
sham1
May 15, 2019

I know it is a bit reckless of me to post these watches especially as I am planning to bid on them but these beauties need more appreciation even if it means my not being to obtain them! And yes, I am partial to the Star Wheel too which may go for the same price as a new Patek Calatrava! Yes I know

SH
sham1
May 15, 2019

At least leave one for me if possible please

SH
sham1
May 15, 2019

that you go for this one!! It is number 10 out of 10. I love it but hey, I am sure you do too

SH
sham1
May 15, 2019

and that was a new piece. This is a bit of a gamble on my part I guess but I am expecting to have to send it for a service. Thanks for the good wishes. I shall need them!!

VI
VinnieD
May 15, 2019

I find the star wheel complication much more interesting than a tourbillon for example This small package packs quite a punch! Best of luck getting it

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