For 150 years, Piaget has been at the forefront of horological innovation, setting new standards in the art of timekeeping. Since its establishment in 1874 in Switzerland, the manufacturer has been dedicated to innovation, producing ultra-thin watches and even jeweled timepieces.
Piaget Turns 150: The Legendary Watches That Shaped Luxury Timekeeping
Piaget has been a leading name in Swiss watchmaking for a century and a half, renowned for its ultra-thin watches that have set milestones in the mechanics of time and are adorned with exquisite jewels.
Among its most iconic creations are the Polo, the Altiplano, and the Limelight collection.
Polo: distinctive design
The Polo is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and elegant sports watches in the Swiss Haute Horlogerie sector. Introduced in 1979, the Polo boasts a distinctive design, showcasing a seamless integration of the case, dial, and bracelet through the use of alternating gadroons and satin-brushed surfaces.
It has gained a loyal following among both polo players and enthusiasts. Among the many variations is the Polo Concept Skeleton.
Achieving perfection with the Piaget Polo Skeleton required a complete reimagining of the case design—one that seamlessly merges two of Piaget’s greatest strengths: ultra-thin craftsmanship and intricate skeletonized movements. The result is nothing short of a masterpiece, a sophisticated timepiece encased in a 42mm stainless steel frame, measuring a mere 6.5mm in thickness.
To bring the Piaget Polo Skeleton to life, the brand’s designers and engineers meticulously developed an entirely new automatic skeleton movement, the 1200S1, featuring an off-center micro-rotor engraved with Piaget’s distinguished coat of arms.
Adding to its versatility, this exceptional watch comes with an interchangeable strap system, allowing wearers to switch between its original bracelet and an additional alligator leather strap, further enhancing its distinctive appeal.
Altiplano: ultra-thin records
The Altiplano collection, named after the South American plains that inspired the shape of the case, is a more recent addition.
Released in 2010, the Altiplano collection set two world records: for the world’s thinnest automatic movement (2.35 mm) and the world’s thinnest automatic watch (5.25 mm).
The collection features the incredible Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon, a showcase of continuous innovation and excellence.
This model maintained its extraordinary 2mm profile without a fraction of excess, with a case diameter of 41.5mm. It perfectly integrates the 25% additional energy required by the tourbillon, demonstrating that Piaget continues to master the art of precision engineering without compromising refinement.
That was in 2020. But in 2024, Piaget equipped the Altiplano Ultimate Concept with a flying tourbillon, while maintaining its impressive thickness of 2 mm, thus claiming the title of the world’s thinnest tourbillon wristwatch.
Limelight: pure sophistication
The Limelight Gala collection by Piaget draws inspiration from an iconic 1973 model, an era when the renowned Piaget Society was at its peak. This vibrant circle of luminaries, artists, clients, and friends of the Maison came together at legendary soirées attended by stars such as Salvador Dalí, Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Andy Warhol, Cary Grant, and Sammy Davis Jr.
Today, the Piaget Society carries on this legacy, bringing together a dynamic and intellectual community that shares a passion for creativity and an exquisite art de vivre.
Rooted in the sophisticated style of the 1960s, the Limelight Gala collection captures the spirit of an era known for its sensual curves and bold elegance. Its asymmetrical lugs extend gracefully from the case into the bracelet, echoing the fluidity of the original design.
The modern interpretation preserves this essence while enhancing it with an impeccably integrated case, dazzling gemstone embellishments, radiant dials, and luxurious gold bracelets. A celebration of timeless glamour, the Limelight Gala stands as a radiant tribute to Piaget’s enduring legacy of artistry and craftsmanship.
Key information
- What is special about the Piaget Polo Skeleton? It features an ultra-thin skeletonized movement and an off-center micro-rotor engraved with Piaget’s coat of arms.
- How does the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon push watchmaking limits? It maintains an incredibly slim 2mm thickness while integrating a tourbillon mechanism.
- What inspired the Limelight Gala collection? It was inspired by a 1973 Piaget model and the glamorous Piaget Society gatherings of the era.
- Who were some of the celebrities associated with the Piaget Society? Notable figures include Salvador Dalí, Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Andy Warhol, Cary Grant, and Sammy Davis Jr.
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