Here’s everything to know about Audemars Piguet’s epic anniversary year so far

Pop the champagne and cue the confetti – Audemars Piguet is throwing a horological house party like no other. That’s right, this legendary Swiss watchmaker is celebrating a major milestone this year, and it’s all ticking along like a finely tuned movement. Founded way back in 1875 (that’s pre-electricity, folks), AP has been flexing wrist candy for 150 years now, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon.

From the iconic Royal Oak – the one that put octagons on the map – to next-gen marvels that merge tradition with tech, Audemars Piguet is a name that knows how to make time look good. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just drooling from afar, this anniversary is a big reminder that AP isn’t just about watches – it’s about legacy, artistry, and turning seconds into statements.Here’s to 150 years of audacity, elegance, and that undeniable AP touch. Discover some of the best horological hitters to mark the soiree so far. 

Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked “150th Anniversary” 41mm 

Time to cue the fireworks – Audemars Piguet just dropped its first showstopper for the year: the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked “150th Anniversary” limited edition. A mic drop moment if you will, it’s a pure celebration of AP’s legacy of bold design, mechanics, and serious style. Rocking a combo of titanium and Bulk Metallic Glass (aka BMG in horological talk), the case and bracelet bring the high-tech heat, while the dial keeps it classy with a vintage flair inspired by a historic pocket watch (shoutout to ref. 25729 at the Musée Atelier).

This beauty also marks a bittersweet goodbye to the legendary Calibre 5135, the movement that’s been making those 41mm openworked perpetual calendars tick like a dream for nearly 10 years. Limited to just 150 pieces, it’s a rare gem with custom anniversary design codes that ripple through the rest of AP’s 2025 lineup.

Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked 41mm 

Miranda Priestley had a lot to say about shades of blue. And she’s right, this isn’t just any blue, as Audemars Piguet unveils a new shade of ceramic, inspired by the Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 tone, developed in 1972 to decorate the dial of the first ever Royal Oak. The work of several years to achieve the colour alone, enjoy it in all of its beauty, framing a 41mm openworked watch, where the movement inside really does all the talking. 

Royal Oak Offshore Self-Winding Chronograph 42mm 

Check yourself. Feeling blue isn’t a bad thing folks. With this novel Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph, the dial is even decked out in the hue, with matching ceramic push-pieces, guards and a screw-locked crown. You can even plunge into the depths of the unknown, with water resistance up to 100m for the ultimate blue experience. We’ll take Blue Monday all day every day.  

Royal Oak Offshore Self-Winding Chronograph Automatique 43mm 

Completing the trifecta of blues is a Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph Automatique in 43mm, bold on the wrist in presence, but even more epic in intent. Remember when Justin and Britney did their double-denim debut on the red carpet in 2001 at the American Music Awards? It’s giving just that. With a contrast of the blue ceramic bezel, pushers, crown, and offsetting of the stainless steel case, this symphony of Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 is tied together with a textured calfskin leather strap. As a wise woman once said, Gimme More. 

CODE 11.59, 41mm 

You know your Royal Oak, but do you know your Code? If you don’t know, get to know as Audemars Piguet is keeping things sleek and steely with the drop of two fresh Code 11.59 references, now in stainless steel for that cool, modern edge. Building on the momentum from their 2023 releases, these latest models introduce a smooth new shade of grey on the dial and strap, perfectly accented by pops of the iconic “Blue Nuit, Nuage 50”—that rich, moody blue we all know and love.

Offered in both Selfwinding and Selfwinding Chronograph versions, these pieces are all about clean lines, comfort, and crisp readability. Think less flash, more finesse—these watches lean into a refined, minimalist aesthetic while still packing serious technical punch. It’s a quiet flex for those who appreciate sharp design and effortless elegance. And with these new additions, the Code 11.59 collection just keeps proving it’s one of the most versatile players in AP’s game.

Words – Scarlett Baker