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Audemars Piguet unveils the next generation of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding

This timepiece, created in collaboration with the famous musician and watch collector John Mayer, marks a milestone in Audemars Piguet’s 150th anniversary.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
The brand introduces the next era of its legendary perpetual calendar timepiece: the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding / Photo via Audemars Piguet
The brand introduces the next era of its legendary perpetual calendar timepiece: the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding / Photo via Audemars Piguet

A year ago, Audemars Piguet captivated watch enthusiasts during its annual showcase by unveiling a remarkable edition of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding. 

 

This timepiece, crafted in collaboration with renowned musician and watch collector John Mayer, stood out not only for its intricately designed dial but also for the significance of the announcement that accompanied it. This model marked the final chapter for the iconic calibre 5134, a movement whose origins trace back to the groundbreaking Royal Oak of 1972.

The calibre 7138 brings significant innovations to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding / Photo via Audemars Piguet
The calibre 7138 brings significant innovations to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding / Photo via Audemars Piguet

Now, as Audemars Piguet embarks on its 150th-anniversary celebrations, the brand introduces the next era of its legendary perpetual calendar timepiece: the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding (reference 26674). This new generation heralds the arrival of the calibre 7138, a state-of-the-art movement that surpasses its predecessor in both design and functionality.

With advancements derived from the calibre 7121 and insights gained from the development of the RD#2 concept, the calibre 7138 brings significant innovations to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding.

Audemars Piguet is releasing two limited editions of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding, each consisting of only 150 pieces / Photo via Audemars Piguet

A piece of Audemars Piguet with upgrades

One of the most notable upgrades is the elimination of external corrector pushers on the case, replaced by a streamlined, all-in-one crown adjustment system. Previously, setting the perpetual calendar required small tools to modify the sub-dials, a process that compromised water resistance. Now, all corrections can be made directly through the crown, ensuring ease of use and enhanced durability.

 

This sophisticated movement is constructed using the calibre 7121 as a foundation, with a newly engineered module influenced by the expertise gained from the calibre 5133, which powers the ultra-thin Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar. The updated design not only refines the movement’s functionality but also ensures that adjustments can be made at any time without risking damage to the mechanism.

These special editions feature a vintage Audemars Piguet signature on the moon phase, along with unique engravings on the case back, including the commemorative "150" logo / Photo via Audemars Piguet
These special editions feature a vintage Audemars Piguet signature on the moon phase, along with unique engravings on the case back, including the commemorative "150" logo / Photo via Audemars Piguet

According to Audemars Piguet, “With the crown-operated calendar functions and a reinforced movement structure, it is impossible to desynchronize the watch or harm the mechanism, even if adjustments are made during the automatic date change window between 9 PM and 3 AM.”.

Timeless transformation

The perpetual calendar module benefits from the technological advancements first introduced in the calibre 5133 of the Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin RD#2 in 2018. This innovation integrates all perpetual calendar functions into a single-layer design, streamlining the movement for greater efficiency. Additionally, the end-of-month cam is now seamlessly combined with the date wheel, while the month cam is directly linked to the month wheel.

 

To mark this milestone, Audemars Piguet is releasing two limited editions of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding, each consisting of only 150 pieces. While these watches will be part of the brand’s permanent collection, availability will remain highly exclusive.

These special editions feature a vintage Audemars Piguet signature on the moon phase, along with unique engravings on the case back, including the commemorative “150” logo. Other than these aesthetic touches, the models retain the same technical excellence and timeless design that define the Royal Oak lineage.

Key information

  • What is the most significant upgrade in the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Selfwinding? The new model introduces the calibre 7138, eliminating external corrector pushers and allowing all adjustments to be made via the crown.
  • How does the new movement improve durability and ease of use? The all-in-one crown system replaces the need for external tools, enhancing water resistance and preventing accidental damage.
  • What inspired the development of the calibre 7138? It was influenced by the calibre 7121 and insights from the RD#2 concept, incorporating innovations from the ultra-thin calibre 5133.
  • What makes the limited-edition versions of the watch unique? They feature a vintage Audemars Piguet signature on the moon phase and a special "150" engraving on the case back.

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