A stunning combination of yellow gold with the vibrant green of malachite.
One of the current trends in the watch industry is the use of ornamental stones in dials. While many brands are just starting to do this, Audemars Piguet began in the 1960s. Back then, stones were used in the dials of the brand's ultra-thin classic models. In 2023, the Royal Oak 37 mm with a yellow gold case and turquoise dial was introduced. This year's two new models feature yellow gold cases with bright green malachite dials.
Natural malachite is valued for its rich green color and unique striped patterns. The intensity of the color is determined by the concentration of copper: the higher it is, the deeper and more intense the stone's shade, and vice versa. However, malachite is quite fragile, scoring only 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Therefore, very delicate stone-cutting saws are needed to work with this beautiful stone.
The striking visuals of the two new models are enhanced by yellow gold hour markers and typical Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. Unlike the model with a turquoise dial, this one does not have a date window, making the design more cohesive.
In 2022, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection, the 37-mm models became thinner. The thickness of the case was reduced from 9.8 mm to 9 mm. This was due to the use of caliber 5909 - an automatic Vaucher movement with a balance frequency of 4 Hz and a 60-hour power reserve. As for the new model, the malachite dial has added 0.3 mm to the thickness.
The 41 mm case model has retained its standard thickness of 10.5 mm. The watch is equipped with automatic caliber 4309, which due to its large diameter (32 mm) provides a solid 70-hour power reserve.
Both models are complemented by integrated 18-carat yellow gold bracelets, equipped with triple-folding clasps.
The approximate cost of the smaller model is CHF 59,800. The 41 mm case model is priced at CHF 64,700.