This article delves into the mechanics behind Audemars Piguet watches, exploring their movements and seeing whether they tick or sweep.
The Essence of Watch Movements
Before examining the specifics of Audemars Piguet watches, it’s crucial to understand the basic types of watch movements and how they affect the motion of the second hand, which is at the heart of the “tick or sweep” question.
Quartz Movements
Quartz watches operate using a quartz crystal and a battery. The electrical current from the battery causes the quartz to oscillate at a stable frequency. This movement is then translated into the ticking motion of the watch’s second hand, typically moving in precise, individual ticks.
Mechanical Movements
Contrary to quartz, mechanical movements harness energy from a wound spring. This energy is released through a series of gears and springs that regulate the release of energy to power the watch hands. Mechanical movements come in two types:
- Manual Movements: Require regular winding by the user.
- Automatic Movements: Also known as self-winding, these harness the motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind the mainspring.
These mechanical movements can produce a sweep – a smooth, continuous motion of the second hand around the watch’s face.
Audemars Piguet’s Sweep, Not Tick
Audemars Piguet does not manufacture quartz watches; instead, they focus exclusively on high-precision mechanical movements, both manual and automatic. This dedication ensures a sweeping motion of the second hand across all their models, which is often perceived as a marker of a higher-quality, more luxurious timepiece.
The Calibre Family
Each Audemars Piguet watch is powered by a movement from one of their distinct calibre families, which are designed, developed, and produced in-house. Examples include:
- Calibre 3120: Used in many Royal Oak models, this automatic movement features a 60-hour power reserve.
- Calibre 3090: A manual winding movement known for its reliability and precision.
The technical prowess of these movements ensures accuracy and provides the smooth sweep of the second hand that is highly valued among luxury watch aficionados.
Iconic Collections
Audemars Piguet’s reputation for excellence is not just in the mechanics but also in the aesthetic appeal and pioneering design of their collections. Here are some notable ones:
The Royal Oak
Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta in 1972, the Royal Oak is a seminal piece that revolutionised the watchmaking world. Its octagonal bezel, “Tapisserie” patterned dial, and integrated bracelet make it instantly recognisable, complemented by the smooth sweep of its second hand, courtesy of its superior mechanical movement.
The Royal Oak Offshore
A bolder, more rugged version of the original, the Royal Oak Offshore offers enhanced functionality and robustness, targeting a younger audience. It maintains the sweeping movement typical of Audemars Piguet’s commitment to mechanical excellence.
The Code 11.59
The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet pushes the boundaries with its avant-garde architecture. This collection blends complex geometry with refined aesthetics, all powered by the latest innovations in mechanical movement, ensuring the sweep is as smooth as ever.
⌚️ You might like this guide: Audemars Piguet Watches With The Best Resale Value.
Investment and Value
Owning an Audemars Piguet watch is not only a statement of style but also a significant investment. The craftsmanship, history, and technology behind each watch make them highly sought after on the secondary market, often retaining or increasing in value over time. In the UK, prices for a new Audemars Piguet can start from £12,000 and can reach into the hundreds of thousands for rare pieces.
To Summarise – They Sweep!
As we have explored, Audemars Piguet does not engage with quartz movements; their commitment lies in the realm of mechanical brilliance. The smooth sweep of the second hand in an Audemars Piguet watch is not just a feature but a testament to the art of watchmaking, where every small movement is a significant leap in horological engineering.
