Audemars Piguet Moss Agate Rutilated Quartz Tourbillons
Complications

Audemars Piguet Moss Agate Rutilated Quartz Tourbillons

By quattro · Apr 3, 2026 · 22 replies
quattro
WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum
22 replies855 views26 photos
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Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, delves into two exceptional Audemars Piguet Edward Piguet Tourbillon references that push the boundaries of horological aesthetics. His detailed exploration of the Moss Agate and Rutilated Quartz models highlights Audemars Piguet's innovative use of natural stone mainplates and intricately sculpted bridges. This article frames quattro's original post, offering a deep dive into these unique timepieces and their artistic merits.

The Edward Piguet Moss Agate Tourbillon ref. 26049OR.OO.D088CR.01 features a unique skeleton movement mounted on a mainplate made of “moss agate”. 

Moss agate is a semi-translucent mineral, commonly found in limestone & granite, which has natural greenish veining pattern inclusions. 



The Edward Piguet Moss Agate Tourbillon is also distinguished by its two bridges with original geometry

Echoing the green or brown marbles of the stone, Audemars Piguet has chosen plant-inspired forms

These small sculptures carved from solid gold are decorated with high relief foliage made by hand. 



The center bridge, it represents the stylized silhouette of a tree.



As for the tourbillon bridge, it unrolls a garland of interlacing with baroque accents. 



Dimensions of the rose gold case: 28 x 41 mm





Manual winding Caliber 2862











Because of the irregular structure of moss agate, each “dial” or watch is completely unique.












credit: Breguetcamera (1-4 & 10-11), Antiquorum (5-8), Prestige Time (9) & Hong Kong Sheyao Group Co.,Limited (12-17)


In the same spirit, Audemars Piguet also made a platinum variant with a rutilated quartz dial/plate, ref. 25924PT.OO.D002CR.01.

Rutilated quartz is a variety of quartz which contains acicular (needle-like) inclusions of rutile.



The geometry of the bridges is inspired by Galileo's pendulum.












credit: The Keystone & Science Museum Group




The readability of these dials doesn't seem to be optimal, but I find these timepieces quite fascinating.

What about you?

Best, Emmanuel

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
QU
quattro
Apr 3, 2026

despite the scientific inspiration (Galileo).

QU
quattro
Apr 3, 2026

But the tourbillon, after all, is a complication focused on accuracy, not on aesthetic pleasure... 🤷🏽‍♂️ What I mean is that I still like the look of the watch, even if I understand your criticism. Best, Emmanuel

HO
hora12reborn
Apr 4, 2026

in a wristwatch it the duo often hampers it.

MD
mdg
Apr 4, 2026

...and the lower bridge always reminds me of a mustache : )

WA
Watchonthewrist
Apr 4, 2026

I love the ,,regular ,, version but these look amazing.

QU
quattro
Apr 4, 2026

A mustache inspired by the feet of Galileo's pendulum: I mean, how cool is that? Best, Emmanuel

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