Introducing: The Audemars Piguet Frosted Gold Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked

January 14, 2018

Back in 2016, the Double Balance Wheel Openworked hit the market and sent pretty big shockwaves through SIHH. It featured an entirely new caliber and a hand-finished, openworked double balance wheel mechanism (not to be confused with the double balance escapement). The watch was first released in a 41mm case that was either stainless steel or rose gold, and now the hand-finished caliber 3132 is available in a white gold case measuring 37mm. But that's not it. Not even close. The new case also features the FROSTED GOLD TREATMENT. Yes. Things are getting crazy up in here.? Looking For Something Simpler? Is this a little too much watch for you? That's totally fine. You can always opt for the original Frosted Gold Royal Oak, which was introduced just last year at SIHH 2017 (though it already feels like a classic somehow).?Check out our hands-on look at last year's release here. Why This Watch Matters As usual, Audemars Piguet is introducing a lot of new products at SIHH 2018. While doing something new with an existing movement isn't exactly groundbreaking, it is awesome that a major brand such as AP wants to offer such a cool movement in different sizes (there is also a plain rose gold 37mm version too, in case you were wondering). This size the sweet spot for many of us, and while Frosted might not be your thing, it's all about choices.? Initial Thoughts I think this is fantastic. A Frosted Gold watch with the double balance wheel openworked movement? Sign. Me. Up. Much like the Van Cleef and Arpels Plantarium and Romain Gauthier Insight MicropRotor Lady, this is up there as a cool ladies' timepiece that is both beautiful and technically intriguing.? The Audemars Piguet Frosted Gold Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked. The Basics Brand: Auemdars PiguetModel: Frosted Gold Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel OpenworkedReference Number: 15466BC.GG.1259BC.01Diameter: 37mmCase Material: Frosted white goldIndexes: Applied rose gold hour markersLume: On hands and hour markersWater Resistance: 50 metersStrap/Bracelet: Integrated Royal Oak bracelet in frosted white gold The Movement Caliber: Caliber 3132Functions: Hours, minutes, and center seconds, with double balance wheelDiameter: 26.59mmThickness: 5.57mmPower Reserve: 45 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 3 Hz (21,600 vph)Jewels: 38 Pricing & Availability Price: $76,000Availability: Coming SoonFor more click here. A close up of the double balance.