The launch of Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak in 1972 marked a transformative moment in luxury sports watches, spearheaded by designer Gerald Genta. Known for its fully integrated bracelet, the Royal Oak combined satin-brushed and polished steel, demanding exacting craftsmanship. This pioneering design set a new standard, making the Royal Oak a timeless icon. Today, the legacy of the high jewellery edition continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Royal Oak High Jewellery Collection: A Tribute to Excellence
Today, the legacy continues with the new high jewellery collection from Audemars Piguet, rooted in the iconic bracelet design. The esteemed collection pays homage to these origins while incorporating the signature styles that have defined the Royal Oak over the years. Highlights include precious metals first introduced in 1976 with Jacqueline Dimier’s smaller model and enhanced with Frosted Gold, a Florentine technique unveiled for the collection’s 40th anniversary.
For those intrigued by historic architectural transformations, explore how an Italian palazzo transforms with onyx designs to appreciate blending past with present in design.
The Royal Oak Joallerie collection transcends traditional expectations with one-of-a-kind, customisable pieces available exclusively at private trunk shows. These creations reflect the artistry and heritage of Le Brassus, home to Audemars Piguet. The Dream of Joux line captures the natural beauty of the Vallee de Joux with 18-carat gold cuffs set with a myriad of gemstones, mirroring the landscape with its frozen lakes and forests.
The Risoud Eclipse collection draws inspiration from the night sky over the Vallee de Joux’s Risoud Forest. This series features a necklace and cuff in black PVD titanium adorned with diamonds and sugarloaf emeralds. Completing the collection are cuffs and necklaces in 18-carat Frosted Gold, accented with mirror-polished elements, embodying the vision of light dancing on the bracelet, once described by Genta. This showcases the stunning versatility of this jewellery, setting a benchmark in luxury watches.
As Audemars Piguet CEO Ilaria Resta notes, “Gerald Genta not only created an iconic watch but an iconic statement bracelet.” This new line reaffirms its enduring influence and exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring its place in both jewellery history and cultural legacy. With this prestigious Audemars Piguet collection, the brand continues to blend exquisite design with unparalleled artistry.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the significance of the Royal Oak bracelet?
The Royal Oak bracelet is iconic for its fully integrated design, combining satin-brushed and polished steel. It marked a transformative moment in luxury sports watches when launched in 1972, setting a new standard with its exacting craftsmanship.
What materials are used in the Audemars Piguet high jewellery collection?
The collection uses precious metals, including those first introduced in 1976 with Jacqueline Dimier’s smaller model, and features Frosted Gold, a Florentine technique. It also includes black PVD titanium adorned with diamonds and sugarloaf emeralds.
What inspired the Risoud Eclipse collection?
The Risoud Eclipse collection draws inspiration from the night sky over the Vallee de Joux’s Risoud Forest. This collection includes pieces in black PVD titanium adorned with diamonds and sugarloaf emeralds.