AUDEMARS PIGUET. - Lot 4

AUDEMARS PIGUET. Star Wheel, ref. BA25720/002, no. D7970 / 355938D. Circa 1992. Wristwatch in 18k (750) yellow gold with rotating disc display. Round case, transparent back, signed. Engine-turned dial, time indication by 3 transparent rotating discs, retrograde minute track located on the upper part, signed. Automatic movement cal. 2324, signed. Signed gold buckle. Diameter: 36 mm. Gross weight: 55.00 g. With certificate of origin and warranty dated 10.04.1992. Provenance: Amateur collection. Launched in 1991, the Star Wheel model introduces an innovative time display with rotating discs gravitating along an arcuate minute scale. This singular time reading testifies to Audemars Piguet's immense creativity, and the brand's perseverance in reinventing itself after the quartz crisis. This atypical model remained confidential, and was produced in very small quantities until the very early 2000s. Our example, acquired in 1992 in Paris from jeweler Alain Michal, then an Audemars Piguet dealer, is one of the first to be produced. This new caliber, originally developed by Audemars Piguet from a Jaeger LeCoultre module (cal. 889), is one of Audemars Piguet's most visionary complications. After a few years' absence, this mechanism has recently made a strong comeback in the brand's collections, notably with the Millenary model, then Code 11.59. In 2023, Audemars Piguet has revisited this complication by introducing a Code 11.59 StarWheel version. CONDITION REPORT (indicative) : Movement operational at the time of catalog writing. Signs of polishing. Hallmarks and markings clearly legible. Slight impact visible on the case middle and bezel at 8 o'clock. Overhaul recommended. Please note that all watches are sold as is. No warranty on function. Watches have been opened to identify movement type and quality, including water-resistant watches, so the buyer is advised to consult a watchmaker to review the water-resistance of the watch. Expert: Cabinet AderWatches / Mr Geoffroy ADER - contact@aderwatches.com