“Only Watch 2023” - Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Openworked, White Ceramic, Blue Titanium

Audemars Piguet (AP) is participating in the prestigious "Only Watch" charity auction for the fourth time, presenting a unique timepiece called the Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked 41 mm "Only Watch". Unlike the subtle and understated design of last year's model, this year's creation stands out with its captivating blue and white color scheme.

The Royal Oak "Only Watch" is based on the regular-production Royal Oak skeleton tourbillon but distinguished by a white ceramic case and bracelet, as well as a movement featuring blued titanium bridges and plates. The choice of materials is noteworthy for AP, as the brand has fewer models in white ceramic compared to black ceramic. In fact, the regular production line only includes one model in white ceramic, the perpetual calendar. In the past, there were also a few Royal Oak Offshore models in white ceramic, such as a chronograph and Diver. The bracelet of the timepiece showcases an interesting detail. AP mentions that it is secured with "invisible pins," implying that the ceramic caps conceal the pins holding the bracelet together.

Inside the watch, the Cal. 2972 movement is meticulously open worked in AP's signature angular and stylized manner. The bridges and base plate are crafted from blued titanium, while the bevels of the movement retain the natural grey color of titanium, creating a striking contrast and emphasizing the pronounced outline of each bridge. The rotor, made of 22k gold, is coated in blue to harmonize with the rest of the movement.

 
The Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked 41 mm "Only Watch" has an estimated value of CHF 300,000 - 350,000. However, due to its exclusivity and charitable nature, it is expected to sell for at least three times that amount.

Only Watch 2023 will be held on November 5, 2023, at Palexpo in Geneva, where enthusiasts and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on this exceptional timepiece and support a worthy cause.

Photo credit: Audemars Piguet