Audemars Piguet Unveils Middle East Exclusive Collection: A Tribute to UAE Collectors

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This collection, which originated from a 2022 "Create the Extraordinary" workshop in Dubai, marks a turning point as it is the first time the brand has directly contacted collectors in the area to allow them to have an impact on the designs.

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The three pieces are marked with "Special Edition" and "Create the Extraordinary," indicating that Audemars Piguet actually adheres to the principles of collaborative luxury. Working with local collectors, the watchmaker has produced a collection that accords with the dignity of both brand heritage and Middle Eastern tastes.

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The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin in this series, constructed with a titanium case and bracelet and incorporating Bulk Metallic Glass for the bezel, caseback and bracelet studs, is notable for both its technical sophistication and aesthetic appeal. BMG, a palladium-based material known for its resilience and remarkable sheen, offers high resistance to wear, adding to the durability and lustrous finish of the piece.

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The vertically brushed ivory dial with Hindu-Arabic numerals contrasts with the rhodium-plated subdials and glowing white gold hands. In addition to complementing the overall design, the moon-phase indication at 12 o'clock enhances the watch's optical symmetry and cultural resonance.

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Inside, the piece is powered by the Calibre 5133, an ultra-thin, self-winding movement first introduced in 2018. This distinctive movement, just 2.9 mm thick, is a significant achievement in micro-mechanics as it combines all perpetual calendar functions in a single plane, rather than the usual three. An exquisite arabesque motif inspired by Middle Eastern design adorns the rhodium-toned oscillating weight, visible through the sapphire transparent caseback.

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Another piece in the series, the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked in white ceramic, is the first Royal Oak to feature both a case and bracelet crafted entirely from the sturdy material. This decision provides the piece exceptional longevity in addition to a streamlined, homogenous appearance. White ceramic is a wise choice for collectors who value strength and beauty since it is so resistant to scratches.

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A blue aventurine inner bezel adds a striking contrast, evoking the clear, star-filled night skies over the region’s desert landscapes. This deep blue hue, framed by the ceramic, gives the watch a serene and powerful presence. The dial side features luminescent white gold hour-markers and blackened Royal Oak hands, optimising visibility while maintaining a balanced look.

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The timepiece is powered by the Calibre 3132, featuring Audemars Piguet’s patented double balance wheel mechanism. This invention, first introduced in 2016, adjusts two balancing wheels to the same axis to improve stability and accuracy by dampening the force of gravity. This complex mechanism is highlighted by the openworked design, which preserves the watch's minimalist aesthetic while offering an unhindered look into its inner workings.

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The Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon, which is on the sportier end of the range and is made of a combination of stainless steel and black ceramic, completes this unique collection. Each piece is visibly distinct thanks to the dial's distinctive, layered pattern, which is made from meteorite. Pink-gold Hindu-Arabic numerals add warmth against the grey inner bezel, giving the design depth and character.

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This model is driven by the Calibre 2950, Audemars Piguet’s first self-winding movement to pair a central rotor with a flying tourbillon. Positioned at 6 o’clock, the tourbillon minimises the effect of gravity on timekeeping accuracy, representing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering. The grey rubber-coated strap completes the look, giving it a sporty edge, an ideal blend for those who appreciate refinement and function equally well.

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The Middle East special-edition collection, which reflects a move toward more individualized and culturally aware luxury, marks a special moment in the brand's evolution. While the result is technically and aesthetically ambitious, it might be the business acumen it shows that is most impressive of all. Catering directly to one of the most dynamic watch markets in the world is a win for everyone involved.

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