To mark its 150th anniversary, Audemars Piguet unveils a limited edition pocket watch combining historical heritage and high complication, illustrating its expertise in excellence.
To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Audemars Piguet has unveiled a truly exceptional pocket watch that combines historical heritage with high complication. This model pays tribute to the manufacture's great achievements while showcasing its current expertise. A fine example of combining tradition and innovation, wouldn't you agree?
A modernized piece of history
The 150 Heritage pocket watch is a very limited edition, according to official statements from Audemars Piguet. The company plans to produce two platinum models and eight white gold models, but they have not yet been manufactured. The hand-engraved case measures 50 mm in diameter and features remarkable artistic finishing. The translucent blue Grand Feu enamel dial gives the watch a precious shine and sophisticated aesthetic.
Exceptional mechanics
Inside, the Calibre 1150 manual-winding movement powers this unique timepiece. According to the manufacturer, this movement has 40 functions and 22 complications, including a minute repeater, a Grande Sonnerie, a flyback split-seconds chronograph, a flying tourbillon, and a perpetual calendar. However, an article on the new releases for spring 2026 indicates that the movement could have 47 functions and 30 complications, highlighting a slight discrepancy in the figures provided, possibly due to different counting methods or sources of information. In any case, these figures attest to the complexity of this exceptional piece.
The Universal Calendar: a leap into astronomy and culture
On the back of the case, you can see the Universal Calendar, a self-synchronizing lunisolar mechanism that is independent of the main movement. It tracks solar, lunar, and lunisolar cycles, displaying solstices, moon phases, and religious dates such as Easter, Ramadan, Chinese New Year, and Diwali. This mechanical calculator displays 18 markers, and its indications will remain synchronized until 2099, according to the brand.
A legacy steeped in history
This design is inspired by the brand's iconic pocket watches: the Universelle from 1899 and the Grosse Pièce from 1921. The brand states that this 150 Heritage echoes these historic models, creating a bridge between the past and the present.
The context surrounding this creation is also symbolic. With Audemars Piguet's recent acquisition of the famous Grosse Pièce, the company intends to preserve and study this unique heritage, which will soon be exhibited at the museum-workshop in Le Brassus, during tours of various AP Houses. This project underscores the company's commitment to sharing its heritage with the public.
Artistic finishes and modern ergonomics
Finely engraved details, such as the handcrafted 18-karat white gold Roman numerals and the handcrafted platinum chain, highlight the craftsmanship. The company has also incorporated ergonomic improvements, including pushers designed to optimize tactile comfort.
A symbolic piece
The creation of the 150 Heritage coincides with Audemars Piguet's 150th anniversary, marking a moment of celebration of its rich past while showcasing its modern innovations. The "all-crown" function, which allows all dates to be updated via the crown alone, illustrates this desire to combine practicality and tradition. Two new Royal Oak models, in steel and sand gold, will also be unveiled during this anniversary, demonstrating the richness of the brand's offering.
An exhibition to discover history
To mark this anniversary, an exhibition entitled "La Maison des Merveilles" (The House of Wonders) has been inaugurated at the Audemars Piguet museum-workshop in Le Brassus. It invites the public to explore the history of the brand through its creations, its craftsmen, and its expertise, complemented by masterclasses and educational initiatives.
In short, the 150 Heritage perfectly illustrates Audemars Piguet's desire to preserve its heritage while innovating. With its historical inspirations, complex mechanisms, meticulous finishes, and a resolutely forward-looking spirit, this rare and limited-edition piece is a testament to the brand's position of excellence. It remains to be seen how it will be received by collectors, but one thing is certain: this pocket watch is a true living testament to the art of watchmaking.
Source: Noah Wire Services