Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: 1956 Reference No: 5057 Movement No: 64'919 Case No: 6470 Material: 18K white gold Calibre: Manual, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Metal buckle Dimensions: 34mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed, dial further signed Gübelin Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet Extrait de Registre and Gübelin Extract from the Archives confirming the sale of this watch.
Catalogue Essay
The present watch is an exceedingly well-preserved specimen. Displaying the signature of Gübelin below Audemars Piguet, the timepiece showcases crisp edges and sharp facets. There is a deep hallmark beneath the lug, as well as another sharp hallmark on the case, near the movement. The dial is preserved in particularly exceptional condition, without any signs of spotting or tarnishing - particularly impressive, considering that this timepiece displays a snap-on caseback, and moisture could have seeped through. The case is particularly large for the period and gives immense presence on the wrist.
Most notably, the caseback bears the engraving "Mit dir durch dick und dünn 8.X 56. Helly" , translating to "With you through good times and bad times". One can only surmise that this watch was given as a gift to commemorate an incredibly special moment in 1956.
A 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.