This time, we focus on the Royal Oak “Jumbo” ultra-thin model 15202XT Only Watch 2021, the last model 15202 powered by Audemars Piguet’s Calibre 2121.
In fact, Reference 15202 and Calibre 2121 will be officially retired at the end of 2021 to make way for a new generation (you can read more about this announcement here).
The case and bracelet combine sandblasted titanium with polished large metal glass, a first for Audemars Piguet. Water-resistant to 50 meters/165 feet, the case measures 39 mm x 8.1 mm.
Bulk metallic glass is a palladium-based alloy used in microelectronic products. When cooled rapidly, this alloy develops amorphous properties and high strength, making it highly resistant to wear and corrosion. Hand-polished bulk metallic glass is used for the bezel, the frame of the sapphire caseback and the rivets of the bracelet, in contrast to the titanium case and bracelet links.
Protected by a glareproofed sapphire crystal, the dial features the typical “Petite Tapisserie” decorative motif, but in a new gray tone.
The aesthetic codes of the original Royal Oak, introduced in 1972 with the 5402 A collection, have been retained. The printed “Audemars Piguet” signature and the word “Automatic” appearing at 12 o’clock, as well as the combination of applied AP letters at 6 o’clock, present the same position and typography as the original timepiece. In addition, the original printed denomination “Swiss” is retained below the hour-markers at 6 o’clock.
The sapphire caseback, engraved with the “Unique Piece” and “Pd500” symbols, attesting to the alloy’s more than 50% palladium content, reveals the 2121 caliber, which beats at 2.75 Hz (19,800 vibrations per hour). An in-house self-winding movement first introduced in 1972 on the Royal Oak, the caliber 2121 is the thinnest automatic movement with a central rotor and date display. The power reserve is 40 hours.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” ultra-thin ref. 15202XT Only Watch 2021 ref. 15202XT.GG.1240XT.99 will be offered with an estimated price of CHF 160,000 – 320,000.