Haute Time: SIHH Day 3, Update From Carol Besler

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one of the world’s top three most iconic watches (the other two being the Rolex Sub and the Omega Speedy), known for its octagonal bezel, tapisserie dial and complex steel bracelet. This year the brand celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak by introducing several commemorative versions – collectors’ items of the future. Among the introductions is the Extra-thin Royal Oak, the Extra-thin RO Tourbillon, the RO Open-worked, the RO Chronograph, a self-winding RO, a special ladies RO and, most spectacular of all, the amazing Open-worked RO Tourbillon. The only problem with this flurry of commemorative Royal Oaks will be deciding which one to choose. Of course, the ultimate decision will depend on availability.

Equally impressive is the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionnele 14-day Tourbillon, so-named for its 14-day power reserve, enabled by four mainspring barrels. It’s also a stand-out because it is the first Vacheron timepiece to be approved according to the new rules governing the Poinçon de Geneve – the Geneva Hallmark. Previously the hallmark applied to the finish of movements, while the new rules apply to the finish of the entire watch.

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