889
Audemars Piguet
Ref. 26395BC.OO.D002KB.01
CODE 11.59 Minute Repeater Supersonnerie
A very impressive, rare and complicated white gold semi-skeletonized minute repeating “Supersonnerie” wristwatch with small seconds, smoked sapphire dial, warranty and presentation box
Full-Cataloguing
- One of the loudest and most sonorous repeating sound
- Supersonnerie chimes hours and minutes without interruption when there are no quarters
- Auction debut for this reference
- Accompanied by full set of accessories
The original "Concept Supersonnerie" was unveiled in 2014, demonstrating Audemars Piguet's exceptional mastery of complications. It presented a fresh interpretation of a historic design, aiming to produce a loud and melodious tone from a regular minute repeater.
Designed as a musical instrument, the complication has garnered three patents: one for the gongs, one for a refined regulator and a third for a tone-enhancing caseback with apertures that do not obstruct sound—diverging from the norm seen in most repeaters. This innovation allows the watch to generate a louder chime when worn on the wrist compared to when it is not. Audemars Piguet has also redesigned the crucial mechanical element of a chiming watch: the striking regulator, also known as the governor. This device sets the pace of the striking sequence for hours, quarters and minutes, eliminating unwanted shock noises and reducing mechanical background sounds that can diminish the chime's quality. The Supersonnerie also ensures perfect timing for chiming hours and minutes without interruption when there are no quarters.
The present watch features a mesmerizing smoky sapphire dial, radiating an irresistible charm. Its skeletonization allows the owner to observe the intricately shaped racks, snails, cams, and wheels driving the chiming mechanism. A clever security mechanism in the calibre 2953 prevents the time from being set while the chime is activated, safeguarding the movement.
First time seen in an international auction, it is offered complete with its warranty card and presentation box.
Audemars Piguet
Swiss | 1881A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.
Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.