Audemars Piguet Vintage Model: Modern Iteration Wish

holdemchamp1225 · 2021-05-11T10:18:34Z

Explore the enduring appeal of the Audemars Piguet Starwheel, a vintage icon with a unique wandering hours display. Discover why collectors are drawn to its distinctive design and the community's call for modern reinterpretations.

holdemchamp1225

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

80 replies10645 views2 photos

holdemchamp1225's acquisition of a vintage Audemars Piguet Starwheel in yellow gold sparks a compelling discussion on the appeal of unique complications and the potential for modern reinterpretations. His initial impressions highlight the watch's striking presence, even for someone who typically avoids yellow gold, underscoring its distinctive design and horological significance. This article explores why collectors are increasingly drawn to such unconventional pieces and the community's desire for Audemars Piguet to revisit its innovative past.

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Usually YG is not my thing but the opportunity presented itself and I simply could not refuse. After wearing it for several days last week, I am now convinced I want it in WG as well as PT but with different dial configurations (guilloché and hand engraved) 😜.

Never owned a Starwheel before but must say it is MUCH MORE striking in person 💥🔥

Key Points from the Discussion

The surge in interest for unique vintage watches and independent brands reflects a growing 'modern watch fatigue' with common sports watches, driving collectors to seek out distinctive designs like the Starwheel.
While the Starwheel's wandering hours display is visually complex, it is technically not a horological complication in the traditional sense, yet it offers a highly original and engaging way to tell time.
The 36mm Starwheel possesses significant wrist presence and is quickly becoming a favorite, prompting the author to seek additional variants in white gold and platinum with different dial configurations.
There is a strong desire within the community for Audemars Piguet to honor its historical legacy by reintroducing modern variants of iconic references like the Starwheel, potentially within contemporary cases such as the CODE 11.59.
The Starwheel is considered an underappreciated Audemars Piguet icon, with its elegant and transformative time display making it a favorite among those who appreciate innovative complications.
Recent auction results, such as a rose gold Starwheel performing exceptionally well in Geneva, suggest a potential trend towards greater appreciation for more traditional and unique beauties in the market.

The Discussion

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

May 11, 2021

Looks great Justin. Only one question: pardon my ignorance but what time is it in the picture? Can’t figure out how it works!

VinnieD

May 11, 2021

It is 11.10 in the second pic

I love the way the numerals are reflected in the polished rehaut - superb and creative piece. I lust for the Star Wheel Millenary in Steel

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

May 11, 2021

Ok thanks! Got it now

holdemchamp1225

May 11, 2021

Yes indeed. The Millenary Starwheel was a other cool iteration as well and had the display on the right side of the watch. Indeed another great example 👍

holdemchamp1225

May 11, 2021

Ah yes, if you are not used to reading the display it might be a bit confusing. If you think about the Urwerk pieces and their satellite system, the Starwheel was the predecessor to that...

The 1st photo shows a time of 11:04 The 2nd photo shows 11:10 😉👍

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

May 11, 2021

got it thanks. pretty cool!