The history of this Audemars Piguet Huitième
The House of Audemars Piguet has always cultivated the art of surprising and pushing back the boundaries of watch design. The story of this Audemars Piguet Huitième has its roots in the late 1980s. At a time when the Manufacture was dominating minds with the sharp lines of its famous Royal Oak, it felt the need to prove its absolute mastery of classic proportions and traditional complications. The name of this collection is no coincidence, and celebrates the 8th line of chronographs developed by the brand. With reference 25644BA, the Manufacture offers a sculptural vision of the traditional chronograph. It dares to use majestic volumes and strong architectural details, heralding the trend for watches with fine presence well in advance.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Eighth
The architecture of this timepiece fascinates from the very first glance. Crafted in 18-carat yellow gold, the 40 mm case stands out with its stepped bezel bearing the noble Manufacture engraving. The articulated tubular lugs offer a unique presence and ensure a perfect fit on the wrist. Beneath the sapphire crystal lies a technical feat in the form of an inverted cyclops magnifier, cleverly placed under the glass to preserve the fluidity of the outer surface. The dial is a matt eggshell colour, deliberately devoid of luminescent material for a more formal look. The applied gold hour-markers and fine dark hands provide a striking contrast for reading the 3 counters. This timepiece beats to the rhythm of the self-winding Calibre 2126, fitted with 51 jewels. Its oscillating weight is fitted with a 21-carat gold segment to optimise inertia, guaranteeing a 40-hour power reserve. The whole is mounted on a black alligator leather strap, secured by a solid gold folding clasp.
Why this Audemars Piguet watch
To agree to wear this model is to free oneself from the obvious choices. On the second-hand market, this timepiece represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a major complication signed by one of the most prestigious manufactures in the Vallée de Joux. Its neo-vintage design, combining the boldness of its massive lugs with the rigour of a classic dial, attracts collectors looking for a charismatic alternative. The warmth of yellow gold, combined with the complexity of its modular movement, makes it a connoisseur's watch combining rarity and authentic pleasure.
Delivered contents and condition
This prestige chronograph comes with its transport box. It is presented in very good overall condition, testifying to the great respect that has been accorded to it. The solid gold caseband and bezel show the slight traces of use inherent in the nature of the precious metal, while the movement has retained an admirable clinical cleanliness. The immaculate dial and robust bracelet underline the integrity of a watch that has already been worn and polished in the past. It is ready to continue its history on the wrist of a new enthusiast.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the absolute authenticity of this timepiece covered by a 24-month guarantee. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Very good condition - watch already worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and bracelet in excellent condition overall.