[RE]Master02: revival by Audemars Piguet
Launched in 2020, the Audemars Piguet [RE]Master collection reinterprets some of the Maison's rarest timepieces that have marked its history. Today, the Manufacture in Le Brassus, in the Vallée de Joux, is presenting a remarkable timepiece, limited to just 250 pieces. Crafted in sand gold, the 41 mm automatic [RE]Master02 is distinguished by its aesthetic codes borrowed from the artistic movement known as Brutalism. Description.
Presented four years ago for the opening of the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus, the [RE]Master collection unveils its first opus with a 1943 chronograph, produced in an edition of 500 pieces. ‘Remastered in the style of old pieces of period music, the two-tone 40 mm timepiece in pink gold and steel opens up the field of possibilities for an exceptional watchmaking line, with volume 2: the [RE]Master02.
The automatic [RE]Master02, an echo of brutalism
Emerging in the 1950s and 1960s in Europe and North America, Brutalism is an architectural and artistic movement symbolised by geometric lines and angular surfaces, devoid of details and ornamentation. These specific characteristics are reflected in a model created by Audemars Piguet in 1960, with its asymmetrical 27.5 mm rectangular case in 18-carat yellow gold. Breaking with the aesthetic codes of the time, the disruptive watch reflects a desire to stand out from other watch brands by giving free rein to creativity and daring.
“Between 1959 and 1963, Audemars Piguet created
more than 30 asymmetrical models, most of which were produced in less than 10 pieces. [RE]Master02 is a fantastic opportunity to revive this forgotten golden age.”
Sébastien Vivas, Heritage and Museum Director, Audemars Piguet
Perfectly proportioned asymmetry
This year’s Royal Oak Tourbillon Volant Squelette Automatique features sand gold, a warm evocation of sand dunes and an alloy of gold, copper and palladium. A first and exclusive for the watchmaking house, this material highlights the different facets of the asymmetrical rectangular case, which reflect the slightest reflections of light.
The special feature of the case is its sloping surface at 3 o’clock, protected by a 15.8° bevelled sapphire crystal. Harmoniously following the contours, its design required two years of research and development to guarantee optimal water-resistance. The geometry of the edges and the sharpness of the corners – which have earned it the nickname ‘[RE]Master The Edgy’ – create a striking visual effect accentuated by the satin-finish sand gold. Sand gold is also found on the engraved ‘Limited Edition’ back.
The dial, the visual attraction of the [RE]Master02
Crafted in PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) treated ‘Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50’, the dial features multiple geometric shapes. With different surfaces, the twelve triangles that meet in the centre are separated by galvanised partitions in shades of sand gold.
Individually shaped, the brass triangles are decorated with a linear satin finish before being placed on a brass plate. The work is masterfully orchestrated by the craftsmen in the Maison’s workshops, and once all the elements have been assembled, the result is a remarkable play of light. To let the geometric madness of the whole express itself, the dial has been pared down. Nothing superfluous is left. Only the sand gold hour and minute hands mark time.
The [RE]Master02 ‘mastered’ core
Paired with a matt blue alligator strap fitted with a sand gold pin buckle, this reference beats to the rhythm of the self-winding Calibre 7129. Just 2.8 mm thick, this extra-thin hour and minute movement has the advantage of producing much more energy thanks to a larger barrel.
Visible through a sapphire crystal caseback, the openworked, asymmetrical 22-carat sand gold oscillating weight is fitted with two reversers that ensure bidirectional winding to provide approximately 52 hours of power reserve. To complete the ensemble, the gears are remarkably decorated: Côtes de Genève, circular satin-finishing, colimaçonnage, soleillage, circular graining and polished corners. These almost poetic words pay tribute to this atypical watch, an illustration of Audemars Piguet’s watchmaking expertise.
Limited edition of 250 – €47,100
Consult the Audemars Piguet [RE]Master02 Automatic.
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