Posts filed under Audemars Piguet

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST. The Predecessor to the 'End of Days' Limited Edition.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001.KE.01 is another one of those discontinued Audemars Piguet references that is worth talking about and spending a whole afternoon reviewing and photographing.

This amazing reference, was launched in 1997 as a predecessor to the Royal Oak Offshore 'End of Days' Limited Edition ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.KE.01 launched in the year 1999. The 'End of Days', is the first limited edition Royal Oak Offshore ever launched and released in a limited run of 500 pieces —the product of a collaboration between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Audemars Piguet while he was shooting the blockbuster movie 'End of Days'. The legendary 'End of Days' a.k.a EOD is one of the first PVD watches ever made and fitted with a charcoal Kevlar aramid fiber strap and a second interchangeable black leather strap.

As a side note, it is important to mention that there is also another very rare 'End of Days' watch bearing ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.AR.01 and of which only four pieces were ever produced —the same four pieces that Arnold Schwarzenegger wore while shooting the movie. Additionally, one unique piece was also produced bearing ref. 25770SN.OO.0050.AR.01 and this particular watch was fitted with a yellow Kevlar aramid fiber strap instead of a charcoal one.  

The main difference between the Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001KE.01 and the 'End of Days',  is the non-PVD stainless steel case with the same shape and cut-out ends and the blue dial with a very similar configuration with blue 'petite tapisserie' center and smooth concentric circle with Arabic numerals and gray chrono registers. The case also measures 42mm in diameter and the watch is fitted with the same charcoal Kevlar strap. 

The strap on this watch is one of the most unique and distinctive straps in the market and it's also the unmistakeable touch that will help watchlifestylers spot this discontinued reference in the wild. While the Kevlar strap seems quite rugged and somewhat rough to the touch, it is extremely comfortable and one of our favorite things on this timepiece. It is really the most comfortable strap of all Audemars Piguet watches —fitted with a strap— that we've worn.

This unique Kevlar strap is a double-fastening strap made of different materials including Kevlar, seat belt like nylon, velcro and leather. The strap features two layers that are individually fastened when putting the watch on. The first layer —inner part in contact with the wrist— is made of a seat belt like nylon and lined with leather righ where the strap meets the case back of the watch. This layer comes with a velcro fastener that the wearer should first secure before fastening the second outer part of the strap. The outer part of the strap is made of Kevlar and features a small pin-buckle with an AP engraving on it. 

The dial has the same hue of blue as the dial on the first Royal Oak Offshore that we reviewed here. The Arabic numerals are somewhat greenish in person —pictures make them appear more white— due to the luminous material on them. The luminescent material used on this dial, is brighter than that used on other Audemars Piguet dials —the hands and numerals glow nice and bright even when exposed to the slightest darkness while driving through a tunnel or an underpass.

The chrono registers are gray with black numerals and black hands. The chrono seconds hand is white and provides the perfect contrast along with the thin white outline on the numerals on the dial. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST a.k.a. the 'Other End of Days' is powered with the AP calibre 2226/2840 —the same calibre fitted in the first Royal Oak Offshore and most Offshores until the release of the calibre 2326/2840 several years ago— with a power-reserve of approximately 48 hours.

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Royal Oak in 1997, a limited number of Royal Oak Offshores with the same type of case as this reference, were sold on colorful leather straps matching their dials in orange, apple green, mint green, yellow and red.

This amazing reference is one of the most comfortable Royal Oak Offshores we have ever worn and a watch that calls for attention wherever you are wearing it. Its unique look and wrist presence are unparalleled, and for those watchlifestylers that are in the know, running into one of this watches is an extraordinary event and an unforgettable experience.

If you consider yourself a true Audemars Piguet collector, this is a reference that is a must have in your collection.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.  

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001.KE.01 Royal Oak Offshore 'End of Days' Limited Edition ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.KE.01 Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie End of Days Watch Audemars Piguet ref. ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.AR.01 AP End of Days Watch Audemars Piguet ref. 25770SN.OO.0050.AR.01 Unique Piece Kevlar Aramid Fiber Strap Audemars Piguet ref. 25770ST Other EOD 25th Anniversary of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Posts 2013 2013.

Experience: Puerto Madero. A Great Argentinean Restaurant in Mexico.

We are suckers for Argentinean steakhouses and we know a lot about them. We are lucky to have been to some of the best ones in Buenos Aires, New York City, and Mexico City. This time we stopped by 'Puerto Madero', a relatively newer place —considering the decades that others have been around in Mexico City— that was launched as a fierce competitor to other very popular Argentinean steakhouse names like 'El Rincón Argentino' and 'Cambalache'. 'El Rincón Argentino' was opened in the 80s by Juan Carlos Malazzo, a former soccer player for the Argentinean team River Plate a.k.a. 'Los Millonarios de River' —the millionaires from River. 'Cambalache' was partially owned by the now-deceased Argentinean actor and wrestler Wolf Ruvinskis.

'Puerto Madero' opened its first location in the upscale Mexico City neighborhood of 'Polanco' on 'Presidente Mazaryk' Avenue —the equivalent to Madison Ave. in NYC, Orchard Street in Singapore, or Bond Street in London— and after a successful launch, made its way to other areas and cities throughout Mexico and now it even has a location in Miami, Florida under the PM name. Its name was taken from the popular 'Puerto Madero' waterfront in the city of Buenos Aires right on the banks of the 'Río de la Plata' river. The 'Puerto Madero' waterfront is one of the best examples of the latest architectural trends in the capital city of Argentina.

This time we decided to have lunch at the one located in Cancun, Quintana Roo. The 'Puerto Madero' is one of the preferred places for watchlifestylers enjoying the good life. During our lunch, we spotted a great selection of watches that included several Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks, Offshores, a few Hublots, and a handful of Rolexes.

As we walked into the restaurant ,we were greeted by the grilling rooms and one of the best stocked bars in the city. The grills are really amazing as the cooking grids are suspended in the air and held by chains fitted with a mechanism that allows the grill masters to lift or lower the meats as desired depending on the cooking temperature that is required.

Once we got to our table, we noticed the beautiful design touches on the perfectly white chairs where the backrests feature the names of the most important family owned wineries in Argentina.

After sitting down, we ordered a few beers, appetizers and wine. The selection included an amazing Octopus Carpaccio, a 'Provoleta' —grilled provolone cheese with olive oil and herbs— and a few 'Empanadas Argentinas' —Argentinean style turnovers filled with meat.   Immediately thereafter, we started talking about watches and the good life.

Along with our appetizers, a bottle of delicious Argentinean 'Saurus Select 2009' arrived to our table. 'Saurus Select' is a Malbec wine produced and bottled in the province of Neuquen in the Patagonia region of Argentina by the renowned Bodega Familia Schroeder. An oaky, full-bodied wine that is a perfect pairing for Argentinean steaks.   

While we talked about the latest watches presented at Baselworld 2013 and each of our wish lists, we decided to order the main course. Of course, we ordered one of the most popular Argentinean steaks, 'Bife de Chorizo' —an over-sized New York Strip. Along with it, the traditional 'Papas Souffle' —souffle fries— that are a staple at this place. These fries are fried at different temperatures making them extra crunchy on the outside but soft and full of air as a 'souffle' on the inside—a culinary work of art. The basket in which they are served is also made of fried potatoes and fully edible.

As we finished our meal, we decided to move out to the gorgeous terrace overlooking the 'Nichupte' lagoon to enjoy our dessert, cigars and Port. For dessert, a delicious cheese blintze topped with berries and a house made 'Alfajor' with tons of 'Dulce de Leche'. This time, we smoked Sir Winston Churchill's favorite brand, Romeo y Julieta straight from Habana, Cuba. 

As we finished our desserts, sipped our Ports and smoked our cigars, another story of the good life came to an end. Another day in the life of watchlifestylers.

Health, watches, amazing food, fantastic wines and the best Habanos. The only other thing we could ask for in this life is to live a long existence. Watchlifestylers remember, this moment is your life. 

For more info on 'Puerto Madero' restaurants click here.  

Posted on August 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Audemars Piguet, Sybarite Guide and tagged Puerto Madero Cancun Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Bife de Chorizo Empanadas Provoleta PM Miami Puerto Madero Presidente Mazaryk Rincon Argentino Mexico Cambalache Mexico Carlos Malazzo Habanos Romeo y Julieta Chanel J12 White Ceramic Rolex Submariner Two-Tone Ceramic Bezel Alfajor Blintze Papas Souffle Saurus Select 2009 Bodegas Familia Schroeder Neuquen Argentina Patagonia River Plate Millonarios de River 2013.

Rare Bird: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel Automatique in Platinum and Rose Gold. One of Our Favorite Discontinued References.

Every once in a while, we receive calls or messages from watchlifestylers and friends about a rare and hard-to-find timepiece that they want to share with us. This time, a message popped up on our WhatsApp. The message read: "I just got a Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in Platinum and Rose Gold. Do you want to check it out?" We really couldn't believe what our eyes were seeing and immediately thereafter, we got our camera ready and headed over to meet our friend.

This coveted discontinued watch ref. 25654PR.OO.0944PR.01 is one that we have been dreaming of seeing in person for a very long time and now we had the perfect opportunity to enjoy a few hours in its company.

Just like all other 'Quantieme Perpetuel Automatique' watches, this Royal Oak features day, date, month and moonphase; however, it does not feature leap-year information as this timepiece belongs to the earlier generation of Royal Oak Perpetual Calendars. Even though the dial does not show the leap-year, the movement on this complication is programmed mechanically to take automatic account of the occurrence of a leap- year —therefore, it has no issues switching from February 29 to March 1st on a leap-year.

This amazing piece is fitted with a gorgeous rose gold smooth matte dial with needle hands also in rose gold and blue anodized hands for the complication indicators —perfectly contrasting and very well balanced.

The watch case measures 39 mm, nevertheless, it wears larger and more like a 40 mm or even a 41 mm watch. Once you put this watch on your wrist, you just don't want to take it off. While this timepiece is top heavy —considering the precious metals used on it— is still extremely comfortable and fits like a glove.

The display case back allows for full view of the amazing calibre 2120/2800 inside this beauty. As it is common on this reference, all the decoration is done by hand including all the markings on the case. This D-serial with an extremely low number is an amazing timepiece that any Audemars Piguet fan would like to own.

If you are looking to get one of the most unique and rare Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel Automatiques out there, this is almost as rare as it gets —only even more rare is the Tantalum and Rose Gold Quantieme Perpetuel in a limited edition of 15 pieces. 

The combination of platinum and rose gold is just stunning and this particular reference is now on our short list of 'dream watches'. 

Sticker Price 'As Much as You are Willing to Pay for One'. As a reference, the Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel Automatique in Platinum has a Sticker Price of $144,900 USD.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.  

Posted on July 29, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Quantieme Perpetuel Automatique Audemars Piguet and Porsche Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Platinum and Rose Gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 25654PR.OO.0944PR.01 AP Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel ref. 25654PR.OO.0944PR.01 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Rose Gold Platinum Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Discontinued ref. 25654PR.OO.0944PR.01 Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar Rose Gold Platinum Posts 2013.

Experience: La Casa del Habano, Cancun Mexico. A Wonderful Afternoon With Cuban Cigars and Rum.

On a recent trip to Mexico, we visited the famous 'La Casa del Habano' located in Cancun Quintana Roo, Mexico —the first international franchise of 'La Casa del Habano' that opened in 1990.

'La Casa del Habano' is considered a temple by those that enjoy smoking a good Cuban cigar —one of the finest pleasures in life— and a place where one can spend a whole afternoon sipping Cuban rums and smoking a handful of hard-to-find delicious 'Habanos'.

Since this was our first time at this location, we decided to walk around and absorb as much as we could of the amazing atmosphere. This is a store where you can discover interesting things in every little corner of it and where cigars, humidors, ashtrays, head sculptures and cigar knickknacks take the main stage.

Room Humidor at La Casa del Habano

One great thing about this location, is that the bar is nicely stocked with Cuban rums and you can sip some of the best 'Mojitos' made to order with 'Havana Club' rum. At this sanctuary of the finest Cuban cigars and rums, you can enjoy every variety of 'Havana Club' —including '7 Años', 'Añejo Especial', 'Gran Reserva 15 Años', Cuban Barrel Proof and even the rare 'Selección de Maestros'— and even the limited production 'Ron Extra Añejo Reserva Especial 15 Años Edmundo Dantes' —only 3,000 bottles become available every once in a while.

As we walked around the store, we noticed the beautiful domino playing table with an original Cuban domino set. The biggest difference between the traditional dominoes and the Cuban dominoes, is that the tiles include double-nines —55 piece set— instead of only double-sixes —28 piece set— on traditional sets. The game of dominoes is the national game of Cuba and for many, the best leisure activity to be enjoyed with friends and family. In the United States, this tradition is kept alive at the 'Maximo Gomez' Domino Park in Calle Ocho in the heart of Miami, Florida. A place where many of 'Los Veteranos' —older Cuban gentlemen— smoke a cigar and enjoy an afternoon playing domino with friends. 

As we continued to look around, we found four brass head sculptures of iconic cigar aficionados that include Ernesto 'Che' Guevara, John F. Kennedy, Sir Winston Churchill and the legendary cigar maker Alejandro Robaina —the most famous and renowned cigar maker from the region of 'Vuelta Abajo' in Cuba. In 1997, Habanos S.A. honored Robaina by launching a line of cigars bearing the name of his famous plantation, 'Vegas Robaina'.

Once we headed inside the main humidor room, we picked a few 'Habanos' to smoke while we were there. The selection included an H. Upmann 'Edición Limitada 2009', a Romeo y Julieta 'Coronitas en Cedro' and a Bolivar No. 3.

As we kicked-off the afternoon with some amazing 'Mojitos' —notice the sugar cane that was used to mash the mint leaves— we decided to begin our cigar journey by lighting up the H. Upmann 'Edición Limitada 2009'. A fantastic cigar that is worth having its own full separate review that will be published very soon.

As we sipped our drinks and smoked our fine cigars, we walked around the store one more time, to discover other great things worth talking about. As we walked around the area where the chest humidors are displayed, we found a fine looking handmade 'Vegas Robaina' cedar chest humidor with three large drawers that can hold up to 250  cigars. A unique piece of art and the most beautiful chest humidor we have seen lately.  The decoration on the door of the chest is made of different types of natural straw and wood veneer to create the iconic image of Alejandro Robaina in his plantation. The drawers come with multiple dividers that can be arranged by the owner as desired and the Sticker Price only $1,800 USD. 

For those brave enough to leave the air conditioned space, there's a beautiful terrace overlooking the mangroves next to the 'Nichupte' lagoon where the hot and humid weather will make you feel like you are smoking a cigar near 'El Vedado' in Habana, Cuba.  

As we sipped more 'Mojitos', tried a handful of Cuban rums —including the 'Edmundo Dantes' that was even better than a Zacapa X.O.— and smoked our last Habano —a Bolivar No. 3— in the company of a delicious Danesi espresso, the afternoon drifted away into the evening under a hot and humid mid-Summer day in Cancun. As we departed this temple of 'The Good Life', we promised our friends at 'La Casa del Habano' that we would be back very soon. It only took another day before we stopped by one more time.   

La Casa del Habano Cancún 

Boulevard Kukulkan Km. 12.7

Cancún, Quintana Roo, México 77500  

+52 998 840 7000

Posted on July 27, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Sybarite Guide, Audemars Piguet and tagged La Casa del Habano Cancun La Casa del Habano Edmundo Dantes Rum Havana Club Rum Havana Club Selección de Maestros H. Upmann Edición Especial 2009 Bolivar No. 3 Romeo y Julieta Coronitas en Cedro Montecristo Alejandro Robaina Sir Winston Churchill Mojitos with Havana Club Ron Extra Añejo Reserva Especial 15 Años Edmundo Dantes Havana Club 7 Años Havana Club Gran Reserva 15 Años Havana Club Cuban Barrel Proof Cuban Cigars H. Upmann Edicion Limitada 2009 Romeo y Julieta Coronitas en Cedros Bolivar No. 3 Habano Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver Zacapa X.O. Maximo Gomez Park Calle Ocho Miami Florida 2013.

Experience: Vilebrequins and Audemars Piguet Timepieces. Royal Oak Offshore Diver and Royal Oak 15400 in Cancun.

Honestly, there's no better beach combo than wearing your Vilebrequins along with your Audemars Piguet watches by the sea. This time, we are reporting from the beautiful beaches of Cancun, Mexico. The only thing we could've wished for is that the weather had been better.

Vilebrequin was launched in Saint-Tropez in 1971 right before the iconic Royal Oak was launched in 1972. Inspired by surfer’s trunks, the design takes shape, very different from the traditional 'swim briefs' of the time. Colorful, original and made out of spinnaker canvas, these swimwear dries quicker than others in the sun and wind.  

Every time we visit the Mexican beaches, the staple look among Mexican watchlifestylers are Vilebrequins and Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks –just like the ones pictured here.

For those that still think twice about getting their Royal Oaks wet in the pool or the beach, just relax and keep in mind that the Royal Oak 15400 is waterproof to a depth of 50 meters —good enough for a day at the pool or the beach.  

Now, if you feel that the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15400 might be too delicate for a day at the beach, you could always bring with you that gorgeous Royal Oak Offshore Diver that you also own –perfectly suited for the beach, the pool, snorkeling and serious offshore diving.

The classic 'Moorea' Vilebrequins —pictured here— are very comfortable and they feature side pockets and a handy back cargo pocket, just in case you want to bring your room key with you.

Next time you decide to take your APs to the beach, make sure you pair them with a few pairs of Vilebrequins for the ultimate beach look. No other swimming trunks will make you look better and classier than the iconic classic 'Moorea' Vilebrequins.

One last thing to mention, is that Vilebrequin is the only brand that offers a Father & Son collection for those watchlifestylers that have kids and want them to look like their 'Mini-Me'. 

For more info click here.  

Posted on July 25, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Fashion & Style, Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 15400ST.OO.1220ST.02 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver ref. 15703ST.OO.A002CA.01 Vilebrequin Moorea Trunks Vilebrequin Turtles on Map Vilebrequin Hibiscus Vilebrequin Fish and Turtles Vilebrequin Father & Son Collection 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked Perpetual Calendar. A Masterpiece of 'Haute Horlogerie'.

A couple of weeks ago, we met with our watchlifestyler friend Olivier —we have featured another one of his timepieces in a story here – just to once again be left in awe by one of the amazing timepieces in his collection. This time, the watch on his wrist was an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel ref. 25829PT.OO.0944PT.01 in platinum. Just an amazing reference that doesn't need much explanation or a long write-up.

This Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar features day, date, moon phases, months and leap years with a fascinating openworked dial that is pure perfection. The blue anodized hands and the moon phase disc provide the right amount of contrast to this masterpiece that looks as good under the sleeve of a tuxedo or while wearing a pair of jeans and a plain Lanvin t-shirt.

The watch is extremely heavy as expected on a precious metal piece of this nature —our guess is that this watch weighs at least 200 grams. We promise we'll bring our scale next time we meet with Olivier and update this article with the exact weight information.

The watch is fitted with the Audemars Piguet extra-thin automatic calibre 2120/2802 composed of 343 parts and 38 jewels. This automatic movement provides a power-reserve of 40 hours when fully wound. Additionally, just as with the Royal Oak Extra Thin 'Jumbo' the oscillating weight can be customized upon customer's request. 

If you appreciate 'haute horlogerie' as much as we do and you have some extra watch funds laying around there, this complication would be a great addition to round up your collection. 

Sticker Price $144,900 USD. For more info click here.  

Posted on July 20, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel ref. 25829PT.OO.0944PT.01 Audemars Piguet Openworked Perpetual Calendar Royal Oak Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in Platinum Openworked Perpetual Calendar Quantieme Perpetuel Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572. The Discontinued 'Owl'. One of the Most Beautiful Royal Oaks.

The discontinued Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572 —a.k.a. the 'Owl' among AP watchlifestylers because of the resemblance to the eyes of an owl— is one of the most beautiful Royal Oaks ever made.

Originally launched in the early 1980s, this lovely 36 mm reference was discontinued in the early 1990s and later replaced by ref. 26330 fitted with a larger case measuring 39 mm —just like the Royal Oak Jumbo or the ref. 15300— and with a 'grande tapisserie' dial.

While the original 'Owl' was available in stainless steel, stainless steel with 18K yellow gold and 18K yellow gold, its successor ref. 26330 is only available in stainless steel on a bracelet and in rose gold with a brown crocodile strap.

The dial on this Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572ST still features the 'petite tapisserie'  with an AP logo at 12 o'clock and anodized blue hands for the day and date indicators. Something really sad about this particular watch is that the owner made the terrible mistake of getting the original dial —a rare Tiffany & Co. dial— replaced with a new one.

This early example of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572ST comes with a blade folding clasp like all Royal Oaks made between 1972 and the mid-80s. The clasp comes with the traditional flip-lock bearing the AP logo. Something we've noticed is that the clasp bears the code H11. This letter code is typically not present on all other Royal Oak models with a blade folding clasp. Also the back of some of the links on the bracelet are marked AP.

Something worth mentioning is that the bracelet on older Royal Oaks —especially on those where the sides of the bracelet have been over-polished— will start showing the soldering marks where the pins where originally inserted while creating the bracelet.

The movement inside this reference is the Audemars Piguet calibre 2124/2810. The first numbers refer to the calibre itself and the next four to the day-date module used on said movement.

The case back on this Royal Oak, just like on all other Royal Oaks from the era is solid. All Royal Oaks up until 1999 used to have a monoblock case. The first Royal Oak models to be fitted with a display case back were the Royal Oak 'Time for the Trees Foundation' Limited Edition ref. 15100ST presented in 1999 and the Nick Faldo Limited Edition ref. 15190 presented in 2002. The Foundation was available in 500 pieces —450 in stainless steel and 50 in 18K yellow gold— and the Faldo had 450 pieces in stainless steel.

The watch comes with a screw-down crown that is marked with the AP logo; however, this model was originally fitted with an unmarked crown and the AP logo crown is a service replacement crown. The serial number on the case is under 300.

Image: FrancescoR from ThePuristS.com

Image: CJCharles.com

If you are looking for a classic Royal Oak that very few own, then the 'Owl' ref. 25572 is a model that you definitely must have. Now, be prepared to spend a ton of time setting the day and the date on ref. 25572 as it is fitted with the rapid-advance feature but not with a quick-set mechanism. The rapid-advance feature lets you advance the calendar by going past midnight and then back to 10 pm as many times as necessary.

Today, finding the original 'Owl' ref. 25572 in perfect condition is as hard as finding a needle in a haystack. If you like the 'Owl' as much as we do, you might be better off settling for a ref. 26330 and avoiding the headaches that might come with buying a vintage Royal Oak that might not be in the best mechanical shape. 

Current Sticker Price of the modern 'Owl' ref. 26330 $19,100 USD. For more info click here.  

Posted on July 19, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Royal Oak Date Day ref. 25572ST Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Date Day ref. 25572 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Date Day ref. 26330 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Owl Royal Oak 'Time for the Trees Foundation' Limited Edition ref. 15100ST Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Nick Faldo Limited Edition ref. 15190 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572 Royal Oak Day & Date Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 26330 Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy. Is it Really the Least Popular Offshore? We Don't Think So.

Every time a discussion around the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy pops up in the online watch communities, we hear watchlifestylers commenting that this is an unpopular Offshore. Interestingly enough, while we were reviewing the Navy at the Langham Place Hotel in NYC, we surprisingly ran into another watchlifestyler wearing one.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy ref. 26170ST.OO.D305CR.01 was launched as a special edition model within the Royal Oak Offshore Themes line many years ago. The watch we are reviewing here, belongs to Fer, a close friend from Mexico who is crazy about the color blue. The second Navy belongs to a friend from London. Guys, thanks for sharing such a wonderful weekend with us.  

Based on what we've experienced in the online watch collecting communities, the Royal Oak Offshore Navy has always been a model that many refer to as the least popular Offshore and one that you rarely run into in the wild. The Navy, as it's name describes it, comes with the most beautiful white dial with navy blue chrono registers and a matching navy blue crocodile hornback strap with white stitching. Contrary to what most pictures depict —including ours—‚ the Arabic numerals and the hour/minute/seconds hands are also navy blue and not black. The contrast between the blue chrono registers and the white méga tapisserie is just mesmerizing. The white flange also creates a very well balanced look and perfectly clean lines.

The biggest difference between the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy and older Royal Oak Offshores —including some of the models in the Themes lineup— is that the Navy is fitted with the newer Audemars Piguet Chronograph calibre 3126/3840 —with 59 jewels, 365 parts and an approximate power-reserve of 55 hours— instead of the AP caliber 2326/2840 fitted on older models.  

To round out the blue look of this watch, the 'Therban' pushers and crown are also navy blue. The strap, just like all other Offshore hornback straps, is very comfortable and one of the nicest finishing touches to this watch. The strap is fitted with a deployant buckle that is also very comfortable and easy to use. 

After doing this review and enjoying this watch for a whole afternoon, we can say that the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy has now become one of our favorite Offshores and another Royal Oak Offshore model that needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

If you are at a crossroad and somewhat indecisive about getting one, we encourage you to see one in person and avoid making a decision based on what you read on the watch communities about the lack of popularity of this beautiful watch. As you can appreciate in the pictures, the Royal Oak Offshore Navy is a perfect match to seersucker pants in case you are thinking of wearing them on your next trip to the Hamptons. While the Royal Oak Offshore 'Montauk Highway' would be the natural watch of choice to that weekend in the Hamptons, we feel the Navy is even more suitable for a day at the beach.

Sticker Price $25,700USD. For more info click here.

Posted on July 15, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Langham Place New York City Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Navy Audemars Piguet ref. 26170ST.OO.D305CR.01 Audemars Piguet Offshore Navy Posts 2013 2013.

News: Audemars Piguet Celebrates Montreux Jazz Festival Archives' Recognition by UNESCO

Claude Nobs_Original.jpg

Press Release

Montreux, 4th July 2013 - In 2010, Audemars Piguet, Montreux Sounds and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) united their efforts with the aim of digitizing, restoring and preserving the precious archives of the Montreux Jazz Festival founded by the late Claude Nobs. A collection that amounts in several thousands of recordings hours of the best musicians in the world has now become the first audiovisual library to be acknowledged by UNESCO as part of its “Memory
of the World”, in an effort to protect the world’s intangible heritage.

Ensuring that Claude Nobs’ heritage continues to live for years to come, Thierry Amsallem, his partner, announced the creation of the Claude Nobs Foundation, with a goal of preserving and making widely accessible this invaluable collection of 5000 hours of live recordings covering almost half-century of musical history.

For Audemars Piguet, the Montreux Sounds Digital Project is perfectly aligned with the brand’s values of preserving its long heritage and tradition in fine watchmaking for the future generations in its birthplace La Vallée de Joux. Commenting on the recent announcement, Audemars Piguet CEO François-Henry Bennahmias, said: “Claude Nobs’ lifework was the inspiration for this project. He was a loyal friend of Audemars Piguet and we are delighted on this personal level to be part of this project. More importantly, we are proud to support a colossal effort that transforms this unique heritage into a top-class digital resource for the generations to come”.

Claude Nobs, a visionary man, valued immensely the world of music which is why he created Montreux Jazz Festival, something that has come to be an institution not only in Switzerland but around the world. Like all great ideas however it took a lot of convincing and insisting before Claude Nobs could persuade the TV stations to come and record the concerts. His vision was to build a music legacy for the next generations. Claude bought back the early archives from Swiss Television when he heard they were overwriting them and from then onwards he personally ensured that all concerts were systematically recorded and filmed. This legacy constitutes almost 5,000 hours of live audiovisual recordings encompassing almost half a century of the festival history, stretching from 1967 to 2012 and forms a unique collection that Quincy Jones has described as “the most important testimonial to the history of music, covering jazz, blues and rock”.

For more info click here.  

Posted on July 11, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Celebrates Montreux Jazz Festival Montreux Jazz Festival Archives' Recognition UNESCO Montreux Jazz Festival and Audemars Piguet Calude Nobs François-Henry Bennahmias 2013.

News: Audemars Piguet High Jewelry Watchmaking Unveiled. Haute Joaillerie Creation.

Press Release

Audemars Piguet’s launch of an extraordinary High Jewelry timepiece gives a fresh impetus to a specialty that has illuminated its heritage for 130 years. Although exercised in varying degrees of intensity over the decades, the creation of splendid feminine jewelry demonstrates skills and talents that the Manufacture has admirably perpetuated to the highest level.

Founded in 1875 in Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux, Audemars Piguet is an independent watchmaking brand that to this day has always been owned by descendants of its founders and still lives in the village of its birth. Its values of tradition and authenticity are inseparably bound up with the environment in which it has developed, as is demonstrated by its advertising campaign featuring wonderful images of local landscapes. In 2013, the valley blessed by Audemars Piguet is subtly evoked through a highly symbolic piece of jewelry that brings to mind not only the brand’s natural heritage, but also the feminine element that is so deeply rooted within it.

Audemars Piguet started creating calibres designed for ladies’ watches from 1883 onwards, less than ten years after its foundation, and has nurtured the art of jewelry throughout its history. The beginning of the 20th century, with its Belle Epoque and the Roaring Twenties, was a particularly rich period marked by a creativity that has been echoed ever since from generation to generation.

Today, the plant-life themes of Art Nouveau suffuse a depiction of the Vallée de Joux, while the geometric lines of Art Deco endow the portrayal with an inimitable sense of purity and restraint. Different styles thus merge to compose a highly sophisticated contemporary creation.

This new High Jewelry creation was born under the watchful eye of a woman, none other than the President of the Board, Jasmine Audemars, and stem from the fertile imagination of designer Julie Dicks under the guidance of Octavio Garcia, Audemars Piguet’s Chief Artistic Officer.

In the brand’s employ for the past two years, Julie represents the only female presence in the in-house design department. Her particular sensitivity has resulted in a highly refined wristwatch with a 28.5 millimeter diameter, fitted with a bracelet featuring gradually decreasing foliage developed on fine, intersecting branches. It is a play on asymmetry, with reverse ramifications and a crown offset at 2 o’clock, associated with great subtlety expressed through alternating polished and gem-set surfaces.

The stylized landscape on the dial evokes the Dent de Vaulion, a peak in the Jura overlooking the Lac de Joux. To symbolize the serenity of nature lying dormant beneath the snow, the designer has chosen to combine the whiteness of mother-of-pearl, gold and diamonds. A sprinkling of blue sapphires adds a cool, fresh touch, while the exquisitely feminine and romantic spirit of this piece is accentuated by a flight of swallows heralding the imminent arrival of spring. A crossroad of exceptional crafts this contemporary masterpiece was designed, developed and created by Audemars Piguet.

It represents the entire spectrum of crafts perpetuated internally and is the fruit of an interactive collaboration between the various craftsmen - designer, jeweller, gem-setter and engraver – as well as the watchmakers who produced the Manufacture’s mechanical movement. The creation of the bracelet followed a particularly long and meticulous process. The manufacturing phase itself was preceded by an in-depth study of volumes and joints in order to obtain a perfect balance and maximum flexibility, with the aim of respecting the original design. The gold leaves, all different sizes, were individually hand-crafted, and partially cover delicate metal strands, assembled using the sophisticate Parisian mesh technique. The S shaped curves they trace considerably add to the complexity of the task. In order not to spoil the overall aesthetic appearance, the jeweler has designed an invisible clasp concealed at 6 o’clock beneath the case. In addition, as the bracelet can be completely taken apart, any adjustments can be easily made to ensure the closest possible fit on the owner’s wrist.

The precious stones, the purest diamonds (IF) and the best quality sapphires come in brilliant, baguette and marquise cuts. Some are tailor-made in situ to ensure that they suit their positioning, while others have imposed their unique character on the shaping of the structure. Snow, grain and closed setting result in harmonious reflections contrasting with rare subtlety, and a composition that is lit up right the way through to the case-back. Overall, this piece is enhanced with 440 diamonds, including 16 exceptional marquise-cut stones, totaling 10.99 carats, as well as 11 sapphires totaling 0.21 carat.

The engraver calls upon the full measure of his skill to provide a deliberately light relief to the gold plate on the dial. Open-worked like lace, it forms the décor on a base covered in diamonds and pristine mother-of-pearl. The surface of the branches required the utmost attention due to their extreme finesse (0.3 to 0.4 millimeters thick), entailing the risk of destroyed the work by even the slightest inadvertent gesture. Leaves engraved on either side of the case form dynamic lines that extend the ramifications of the bracelet lugs. The movement is enlivened by the distinctive design of the ratchet-wheel. This round, mobile part enhanced by a dedicated engraving, attracts the eye and personalizes the movement that may be admired through the sapphire case-back.

The mechanical movement housed in this High Jewelry timepiece is hand-wound Calibre 3091, beating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour and endowed with a 48-hour power reserve. Designed, developed and manufactured internally at the Manufacture Audemars Piguet, the timepiece is decorated in keeping with the finest watchmaking traditions. Its blued screws evoke the color of the gold hands sweeping over the dial and the sapphires that enhance the radiance of the bracelet. A movement such as this instills exceptionally exclusive character into this sparkling creation, since jewelry watches driven by a mechanical calibre are few and far between. Harmony rules in this sumptuous creation. The theme admirably reflects the identity of a family company that is deeply attached to its roots and the art of jewelry blends wonderfully with the art of watchmaking.

For Audemars Piguet, it also heralds a renaissance in the realm of High Jewelry, to the delight of women who are enthralled by its age-old expertise.

For more info click here.  

 

 

Posted on July 10, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet, News and tagged Audemars Piguet High Jewelry Watchmaking Le Brassus Jasmine Audemars Julie Dicks Octavio Garcia Watch With Diamonds and Leaves Dent de Vaulion Jura Audemars Piguet Jewelry Watch Audemars Piguet Haute Joaillerie Watchmaking.

Experience: Alfajores Cachafaz. Two Classics Meet for Coffee and Dessert.

It's been a long time since we've met with Gonzalo for some coffee and 'alfajores'. Gonzalo is a watchlifestyler and close friend from Argentina. On his last visit to Chicago, he stopped by for an espresso and brought with him some delicious 'alfajores' from his home country. We were expecting 'alfajores' Havanna but he surprised us with Cachafaz. After asking him what had happened to the traditional 'alfajores' Havanna he always brings along, he said, "Cachafaz is now my favorite brand. Just like with watches, taste evolves over time".

'Alfajores' are a very typical dessert in Uruguay and Argentina. An 'alfajor' consists of two round, sweet biscuits joined together with 'dulce de leche' and coated with dark chocolate or white chocolate. There is also a variation called 'alfajor de nieve' that has a coating consisting of a mixture of egg whites and sugar. 

Gonzalo started his watch collecting life approximately fifteen years ago after he left Buenos Aires and relocated to South Florida. This time he was wearing a classic Rolex Datejust ref. 116200. The watch on our wrist that day was an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 15400.

As we sipped our espressos and shared a few 'alfajores', we just couldn't stop talking about watches and the good life. Nothing like sharing foods that bring memories from our younger years in the company of good friends and classic watches.

For more info on Cachafaz click here. 

Posted on July 6, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Sybarite Guide, Audemars Piguet and tagged Alfajores Cachafaz Buenos Aires Argentina Alfajores Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Rolex Datejust ref. 116200 Alfajores Havanna 2013.

Experience: Audemars Piguet Boutique New York City. Elegance and Distinction in Every Corner.

As we walked down 57th street during a hot and humid summer day, we decided to stop by the Audemars Piguet flagship boutique. This boutique is located at 65 E 57th Street, almost at the corner with Park Avenue. Read on to experience it with us.

As soon as you are ready to head inside, you'll notice the beautiful AP logos on the door handles —on both sides of the door— and the AP carved logo on the gray stone covering the façade.

As you make your way in and cool down, you'll get ready to embark on a beautiful discovery of limited edition timepieces and almost every reference in the Audemars Piguet collection. As you walk into the vestibule, the brand is already welcoming you and embracing your passion with two small screens looping videos of the manufacture.

L1110894.jpg

Once you are finally all the way inside the boutique, you'll notice the elegant details in every corner of the space. The wooden floors, the two beautiful chandeliers, the finely crafted furniture, the live orchids and the watch displays where precious timepieces are perfectly illuminated. Everything inside this boutique exudes elegance and distinction. The Audemars Piguet boutique is a perfect example of what NYC's 'grandeur' is all about. 

As you walk around the boutique in awe, you finally see a few limited edition references for the first time. The Tour Auto and the Legacy wink at you. You keep walking and stumble upon a beautiful Royal Oak Offshore in rose gold ref. 26170OR.OO.1000OR.01 next to a beautiful white rose —as white as the dial on that Offshore.

As you head towards the back, there's a small room on the left that catches your eye. A comfy off-white divan with red accents and a couple of burgundy velvet ottomans welcome you into that secluded and elegant area of the boutique.  

You continue to walk towards the back while making up your mind on what you'll be buying this time. At the end of the boutique, there's a watchmaker on duty, ready to make any bracelet adjustments you might need. Right by it, you can relax in a nice and comfortable sitting area. 

As you turn around and look at the art on the walls, you'll notice two images from the manufacture including a picture of a pocket watch.

After admiring the different collections throughout the boutique, you head back towards the front of the boutique to take a closer look at the Royal Oak Quantième Perpétuel Skeleton in Platinum ref. 25829PT.OO.0944PT.01 that caught your eye as you walked in. You peruse the watch for a few minutes and the friendly staff explains everything you need to know about it. You pull the trigger on the purchase and get ready to leave.   

As you exit the boutique through its double doors and feel the heat of the NYC summer, you look back and wonder when you will stop by next. Perhaps in a few weeks or maybe even next week.  

For more info click here.

Audemars Piguet New York City Boutique
65 E 57th Street
New York, NY 10022
 
Phone number:  212.688.6644
 
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday Closed

Posted on June 27, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet, Watch Shopping and tagged Audemars Piguet Flagship Boutique NYC Audemars Piguet New York City Boutique Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto Limited Edition Royal Oak Quantieme Perpetuel Skeleton Quantieme Perpetuel Squelette Audemars Piguet ref. 26170OR.OO.1000OR.01 Audemars Piguet ref. 25829PT.OO.0944PT.01 Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver ref. 15707CE. A Watch Best Appreciated in Person.

A couple of days ago we had the pleasure of perusing the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver. We would like to thank our friends at Audemars Piguet for allowing us to get up close and personal with this beautiful novelty that was presented earlier this year at the SIHH.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver ref. 15707CE.00.A002CA.01 is the third Diver in the Royal Oak Offshore Diver line-up and it's one stunning watch. To read our review of the Stainless Steel Diver ref. 15703ST click here and for our review of the Forged Carbon Diver ref. 15706AU click here. At the bottom of this story you'll find a few side-by-side pictures of the Ceramic Diver next to the Stainless Steel one. 

This Royal Oak Offshore Diver comes with a case and bezel fully made of ceramic in the same exact measurements as its two siblings —the Stainless Steel and Forged Carbon. In contrast with the other two, the Ceramic Diver is the most lustrous of all, due to the highly reflective properties of the ceramic.

The plots connecting the strap to the case and the case back are made of titanium and out of the three models, the Ceramic Diver is the only one fitted with a display case back that allows full view of the Audemars Piguet calibre 3120. 

The 'Méga Tapisserie' dial on the Ceramic Diver is matte opposed to the glossy dials on the Forged Carbon —less glossy than on the SS model— and Stainless Steel Divers. The Stainless Steel model is the only one with a glossy dial. The calendar wheel is also black like on the other Divers; however, it features the newer font just like the Forged Carbon. The orange accents on the seconds, minute hands and rotating bezel need to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.  The contrast these accents provide is just exceptional but somewhat flashier than the yellow on the Forged Carbon Diver.

Both crowns on the watch are made of ceramic and they are very easy to use with excellent grip. The brushed finish on the ceramic is superb and has the exact same grain found on the stainless steel Diver. Something we really like about the ceramic model is that, depending on the lighting conditions, the color of the case and bezel will vary from dark black to graphite black.

The strap is the exact same that is fitted on the other two Royal Oak Offshore Divers and just like on the Forged Carbon Diver, the Ceramic Diver also comes with a titanium tang buckle. Weight wise, we feel that the Ceramic Diver is quite close to the Stainless Steel Diver, perhaps slightly lighter. Unfortunately, we didn't have our scale with us to do a weight comparison. 

The watch is just as comfortable as the other two Divers but with a sportier look and feel to it. The orange accents seem to go well with most outfits and for sure will be a perfect match to your black Mares diving suit. 

The side-by-side pictures below clearly show how much more rugged and sporty the Ceramic Diver is next to the Stainless Steel model. This new model will be available at authorized dealers and boutiques in just a few months. Get your cash ready because we know that once you try one on, you won't want it to leave your wrist —just exactly how we felt when we knew it was time to take it off after reviewing it.

Since the pictures really don't show the true beauty and actual colors of this watch, we encourage you to see it in person to fall in love with it.

Sticker Price $21,800 USD. For more info click here. 

Posted on June 24, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet 15707CE.00.A002CA.01 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver Audemars Piguet Orange Ceramic Diver Royal Oak Offshore Diver AP ROO Ceramic Diver ref. 15707CE.00.A002CA.01 Posts 2013 Halloween 2013.

News: Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013. Liberty National Golf Course, New Jersey.

Press Release - On June 17, 2013, guests from fifteen different countries joined the illustrious roster of the Audemars Piguet Golf Ambassador Team in the experience of a lifetime at the Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013. The setting of this lively and exclusive event was the prestigious and demanding Liberty National Golf Course with its stunning mile-long waterfront affording breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline —most notably the Statue of Liberty, which is the main attraction on several approach shots.

The scramble game formula afforded guests to a challenging round in the company of the Audemars Piguet golfing “dream team” – some of whom arrived directly following the 2013 US Open in Ardmore, PA, comprised of Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood, Keegan Bradley, Ian Poulter, Bud Cauley, Darren Clarke, Cristie Kerr, Morgan Pressel and Belen Mozo.

Before the start of the tournament, Audemars Piguet’s CEO François-Henry Bennahmias introduced each of these nine outstanding professionals highlighting the friendly bond created over the years, whilst demonstrating their skills on the driving range. After a very close tournament, the team led by Morgan Pressel and Graeme McDowell won with a score of 181.

Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013 Winning Team.

Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013 Winning Team.

All those in attendance reveled in their shared enthusiasm for golf and for the Audemars Piguet approach to watch making; two skills that require a blend of passion and precision, technique and artistry —all governed by rigorous discipline.

Cristie Kerr & AP VIP client 2_Original.jpg

Cristie Kerr and Audemars Piguet VIP Client.

Once again, the array of exceptional players from the Audemars Piguet Golf Ambassador Team perfectly embody the brand’s philosophy: “To break the rules, you must first master them”.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.

 

 

Posted on June 20, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013 LIberty National Golf Course New Jersey Graeme McDowell Lee Westwood Keegan Bradley Ian Poulter Bud Cauley Darren Clarke Cristie Kerr Morgan Pressel Belen Mozo Audemars Piguet Golf Ambassadors François-Henry Bennahmias 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ladies Quartz ref. 66270. An Often Forgotten Reference, Yet a Stunner.

The discontinued Royal Oak Ladies Quartz watch ref. 66270ST.OO.0722ST.01 is an often forgotten reference that is truly one of the best looking ladies watches ever made. This beautiful reference circa 1990s is fitted with a dark blue 'petite tapisserie' dial that has the same hue of blue as the first Royal Oak Jumbo launched in 1972.

The watch has a 25 mm case that, for today's standards, seems relatively small; however, the wrist presence of this watch is pure ''grandeur' due to its iconic design and pedigree. This quartz watch is fitted with the AP Quartz Calibre 2160 with a date aperture at 3 o'clock and an estimated battery life of 2-2.5 years. 

This very thin timepiece has a monoblock case like all older Royal Oaks. It comes with an integrated bracelet featuring a deployant folding push button clasp bearing the Gay Frères engraving. Gay Frères used to be involved in the construction of the Royal Oak bracelets from 1972 until the late 1990s.

This  'petite' watch is an iconic reference with amazing wrist presence.

As you can appreciate in the picture below, this watch wears bigger than what you would think. It's a great everyday watch that matches all types of outfits and it is the perfect companion for a picnic in Central Park or a gala night at Lincoln Center. 

If you can find one, the estimated pre-owned Sticker Price $6,500-$8,000.  For more info on the current Audemars Piguet Ladies collection click here.  

Posted on June 14, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Ladies Royal Oak Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 66270ST.OO.0722ST.01 Royal Oak Ladies Quartz Stainless Steel Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ladies Quartz Posts 2013 2013.

Experience: Montecristo No. 3. One of the Finest Habanos in the World.

As we were getting ready to enjoy another sunset at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman down in the Cayman Islands, we pulled out an Habano to enjoy the moment even more. Really, there's nothing better than a good cigar on the beach, wearing a nice watch and contemplating a beautiful sunset.

This time, we enjoyed a Montecristo No. 3 —a hand rolled Cuban cigar that is typically used as the benchmark when rating other fine cigars.

Montecristo has set the bar quite high for almost 80 years since its launch in 1935. Its name was taken from Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Montecristo'. The story accounts that when the factory first opened, the manager used to read the novel to the 'torcedores'—rollers— and they liked the novel so much, that they wanted to immortalize the main character of the novel by naming their fine cigars 'Montecristo'.

The Montecristo No. 3 only includes leaves from the region of 'Vuelta Abajo'. This Cuban region is home to the best tobacco leaves in the world. From fillers to binders and wrapper, all are 'Vuelta Abajo' leaves.  'Vuelta Abajo' is located in the western tip of Cuba in the province of 'Pinar del Río' by the towns of 'San Juan y Martínez' and 'San Luis'.

This region is also the main source of tobacco for Habanos, and the only region that grows all types of leaf. But even in this amazing region, less than a quarter of the tobacco growing land enjoys the 'Vegas Finas de Primera' status that is required for the Habanos.

Montecristo No. 3 is a Coronas measuring 5 5/8" in length with a 42 ring gauge. With hints of leather, coffee and ambergris, this cigar is rich and powerful. Flavor profile stays even for the first two thirds of the cigar and becomes stronger on the last third. Around 50 minutes of burning time in a perfectly rolled cigar with perfect draw and almost perfect even burn —went out just once, possibly due to the strong evening sea breeze.

While this cigar is a joy to smoke, we only recommended it for more experienced smokers. Due to its intensity, we feel it might be too much to take for someone looking to try a cigar for the very first time.

Posted on June 9, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Audemars Piguet, Sybarite Guide and tagged Montecristo No. 3 Audemars Piguet Diver Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Vuelta Abajo Pinar del Río Vegas Finas de Primera San Juan y Martínez San Luís Cuba The Count of Montecristo Alexandre Dumas Torcedores 2013.

Experience: Audemars Piguet Boutique Bal Harbour. A Very Modern and Sleek Place.

Located in the heart of Bal Harbour just north of Miami Beach, off of Collins Ave. and 96th, a brand new Audemars Piguet boutique was just opened a couple of weeks ago inside the Bal Harbour Shops.

The boutique includes a 990 sq. ft. space—located on the first floor next to David Yurman— with a very minimalistic design that clearly portrays Audemars Piguet's core values and brand essence.  As soon as you walk in, you will be taken on a journey all the way to the home of the manufacture in Le Brassus.

Even though the boutique is very modern, it is still extremely inviting. Before you head into the boutique, you already know that you are in for a treat. As you walk in and are greeted by their friendly staff, core elements of the earth are present in the materials utilized in every single corner of this magnificent space.

Once inside, you will notice sleek slate floors, modern wooden walls, polygonal stone blocks —serving as the base for the wooden counter tops—, high-tech screens, rocks covered with moss, brass sculptures, nicknacks and a large chandelier that illuminates the space.

On the left side as you walk in, next to a beautiful white lacquered indented shelving unit, you will find a super-sized nine panel video wall looping images of nature and landscapes from the Vallée de Joux. On the opposite side, a smaller LED screen is looping horological footage from the manufacture and watches in the collection. At the lounge bar area, feel free to help yourself to some of the most delicious 'macarons' that taste just as authentic as if you were in Paris at Pierre Hermé on Rue Cambon —just a block away from the Audemars Piguet boutique on Rue Saint Honoré.

As you walk around, you'll notice that employees are well trained to make adjustments to bracelets. By the loupe and tool set he was using, we can tell that you won't leave with a scratched bracelet.

As you look around for that next piece that you want to buy, you'll notice the attention that has been put forth to every single detail at the boutique. From the flowers to the bronze sculptures —that appear to be made by Swiss sculptor Giacometti. The displays are unique and well lit showcasing the watches in pure harmony. Fantastic pieces, complications and key references across the different Audemars Piguet lines are on display. Now pick what you want to try on.

Once you pick your favorite watch to peruse, have a seat on the comfortable, perfectly designed chairs and take a deep breath. Take all of the imagery and the boutique design inside you, all the way to your core. You are here for a reason and you know it.

Now, admire the design and craftsmanship of that gorgeous Royal Oak Extra-Thin Tourbillon ref. 26510ST.OO.1220ST.01 you've been wanting for a long time or perhaps the Royal Oak Tourbillon Chronograph in gold. Choices, choices and more choices. The endless storyline in the life of a watch collector.  

As you make another round throughout the boutique, the antique pocket watch from the Audemars Piguet Museum catches your attention. Then, you admire the antique Ingold Fraise horological tool —used to cut movement wheels and their teeth— that is sitting on the upper shelf right above the pocket watch. As you look at the LED screen to the right of those two objects, you just can't stop watching the video that is playing and showing you how these masterpieces are made. You are more than ready to get one.

While you are there and as you make up your mind, enjoy looking at pieces like the Millenary Minute Repeater with AP Escapement ref. 26371TI.OO.D002CR.01 —a limited edition of 8 pieces in Titanium and anthracite dial— and the Jules Audemars Chronometer with AP Escapement in Platinum ref. 26153PT.OO.D028CR.01.

After purchasing that new timepiece, you leave through the door feeling fulfilled after your experience at the beautiful boutique. You are happy, excited and looking forward to sharing your unveiling thread on an online watch forum. Mission accomplished.

As you walk back into the shopping center atrium, you stop by the koi fish and turtle pond outside the boutique. As you look at the koi fish, the orange color on them makes you think about the new Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver and its orange accents. As you are getting ready to leave, you turn back and take a last look at the boutique wondering when you will be back to peruse the new Ceramic Diver and add it to the collection.

Special thanks to Audemars Piguet for allowing us to come visit the boutique and take all of these pictures for our story.

For more info click here.  

Audemars Piguet
Bal Harbour Shops
9700 Collins Avenue, Space #159
Bal Harbour, FL 33154
 
Phone number:  305.864.6776
Toll Free:  866.595.9700
 
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday 10 AM – 8:45 PM
Sunday 12noon – 5:45 PM

Posted on June 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Watch Shopping, Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Bal Harbour Boutique Royal Oak Tourbillon Royal Oak Tourbillon Chrono Le Brassus Ingold Fraise Giacommeti Bal Harbour Shops Macarons Pierre Herme Royal Oak Extra-Thin Tourbillon Jules Audemars Chronograph with Escapement Jules Audemars Chronometer with Escapement Audemars Piguet ref. 26153PT.OO.D028CR.01 Audemars Piguet Millenary Minute Repeater Audemars Piguet ref. 26371TI.OO.D002CR.01 Millenary Minute Repeater Limited Edition Posts 2013 2013.

Experience: Hoyo de Monterrey Dark Sumatra Media Noche. A Well Balanced Cigar.

After a delicious meal at Julian Serrano in Las Vegas and while finishing our last glass of sangría, we headed down to View Bar to enjoy a fine cigar. This time an Hoyo de Monterrey Dark Sumatra Media Noche from Honduras. It's nowhere near the 'real' Hoyo de Monterrey from Cuba but it's quite good. 

Made at the renowned General Cigar Company in Honduras —one of two of the largest cigar factories in the world—, the Dark Sumatra is a more robust version of the original Hoyo de Monterrey from that country. This complex mature cigar features a Dark Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, fillers from Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic and Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro binders.

The Media Noche is a 'Corona Gorda' measuring 5¾ inches in length with a 54 ring gauge. With hints of coffee, roasted nuts, and leather, this cigar is smooth but rich at the same time. Flavor profile changes every 15 to 20 minutes with at least 50 minutes of good burn. 

The leaves are rolled with the perfect tightness for a perfect draw, even burn and a long ash. This cigar is so well rolled that it does not require relighting at all.

If you want a mature, complex cigar that is yet smooth, the Hoyo de Monterrrey Dark Sumatra Media Noche will not let you down. 

For more info click here.  

Posted on June 5, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Sybarite Guide, Audemars Piguet and tagged Hoyo de Monterrey Dark Sumatra Media Noche General Cigar Company Honduras View Bar Julian Serrano Las Vegas Audemars Piguet Diver Hoyo de Monterrey Dark Sumatra Media Noche 2013.

Experience: Petrus Pomerol 2000. Celebrating 20 Years of the Royal Oak Offshore.

The year 2013, marks the 20th anniversary of the launch of the Royal Oak Offshore; another milestone in Audemars Piguet's history. Contrary to the Royal Oak, the Royal Oak Offshore was not a response from the manufacture to any particular request from a particular market. Stephen Urquhart, Audemars Piguet's Managing Director at the time, felt it was time for the Royal Oak to have a sibling.

In 1989, he asked Emmanuel Gueit to come with a design to commemorate the Royal Oak's 20th anniversary. Emmanuel, based his design on the observation that women were already wearing men's watches back then and he felt it was time for the Royal Oak to move up a notch in size. Initially scheduled to be launched in 1992 —right at the time of the Royal Oak's 20th anniversary—, the Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST was pushed back another year.   

Since the Royal Oak was partially inspired by the maritime world, it was natural for the new watch to be named Offshore. The other name that could've been used was 'Challenger'. We really think that 'Offshore' suits this watch way better.   

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Royal Oak Offshore, there's no other wine out there as iconic as the Petrus Pomerol. A perfect match to the iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore.

Petrus is a Bordeaux wine from the Pomerol Appellation near the border with Saint-Èmilion. Petrus is produced by a very small winery that belongs to the Moueix family and Christian Moueix has been in charge of the winery since 1970. 

Today, Petrus is widely regarded as the most outstanding wine and one of the world's most expensive wines you could buy. Petrus vintage 2000, is a complex merlot grape wine with a bright ruby red color. Smooth but with a thick body, Petrus will leave hints of truffle and liqueur on the palate. A remarkably impressive wine that will finish with strong tannins. While the 2000 vintage is nowhere near 1998's vintage, this wine will be better enjoyed by the time the Royal Oak Offshore turns 40, just like the Royal Oak turned 40 last year.

Sticker price $4,700-5,000. For more info on the Royal Oak Offshore click here.

Posted on May 23, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet, Food Wine & Cigars and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Royal Oak Offshore ref Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01 20th Anniversary of the Royal Oak Offshore Petrus Pomerol Petrus Pomerol 2000 Price Petrus Pomerol Top Food 2013.

Encounter: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal and the Arnold's All-Stars. Stumbling Into Two Giants.

Some time ago, while visiting Las Vegas, we stumbled upon these two fantastic Royal Oak Offshore limited edition references from Audemars Piguet. It had already been a day full of surprises while watch shopping, but running into these two watches was quite an experience.

Honestly, how often do you run into these two pieces at the same time?

Two real giants, not only in terms of size —both the ambassadors and the timepieces— but also, because of their desirability, collectability, limited quantities and wrist presence.

Let's start talking about the Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal reference 26133ST.

This massive watch comes with a stainless steel over-sized case measuring 48mm. It is fitted with a beautiful contrasting hornback black crocodile strap with red stitching and a gorgeous black mega tappiserie dial with red accents on the flange, silver Arabic numerals and the numbers three and two in red —appearing in reversed order to celebrate the athlete's jersey number 32.

While most of you would think that this watch can only be worn by watchlifestylers as tall as Shaquille O'Neal —7' 1" in height—, we can tell you that after trying it on, that is not the case. Actually, it is very comfortable even if you are only 5' 10'' tall.

As you can appreciate in the pictures, the design behind this watch definitely evokes the greatness of the athlete. Audemars Piguet even created a wooden box shaped as a basketball to sell this fantastic watch. Sticker price of $35,000 if you can find one, remember this limited edition of 960 pieces is pretty much sold out everywhere. The Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal is also available in 18K white gold with a diamond encrusted bezel —sold as reference 26134BC— in a limited edition of 96 pieces and a sticker price of $88,600.

Now, let's talk about the other giant. The Royal Oak Offshore Arnold's All-Stars After-School Adventures reference 26158OR comes also in a 48mm case but in 18K rose gold. Just as expected, the precious metal on this Royal Oak Offshore makes this watch ultra heavy and a real stunner. Fitted with a brown crocodile strap with cream stitching and a matte chocolate brown dial —with a combination of mega tappiserie and concentric circles right where the Arabic numerals in rose gold are applied—, this limited edition of 350 pieces has a sticker price of $83,100 and is not easy to find either.

Both timepieces feature the same type of case design —like that on the 'End of Days' Offshore—, rectangular chrono pushers, tang buckles on their straps and solid case backs with the ambassador's names and respective limited edition information.

For more info on other Audemars Piguet limited editions click here.  

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged RO Offshore Arnold's All-Stars ref. 26158OR Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Las Vegas Shaquille O'Neal RO Offshore Shaquille O'Neal ref. 26133ST RO Offshore Shaquille O'Neal ref. 26134BC Arnold Schwarzenegger 2013.