Audemars Piguet - Répétion Minutes John Shaeffer

This new product line exemplifies the kind of timepiece that, back in 1892, was contributing so strongly to the reputation of Audemars Piguet’s master watchmakers. Fitted with gongs, one high-pitched, the other lowpitched, it strikes hours, quarters and minutes. Minute repeaters are among the maker’s most prestigious achievements. The first such timepiece, named for American industrialist John Shaeffer, was built in 1907. An updated version, for which about 1,000 constructional plans had to be prepared, features a larger and slightly rounded case. Measuring 22.6 mm across and 5 mm thick, the movement includes 34 jewels. Made in yellow gold and in platinum, the case back is a transparent sapphire revealing the gilt or rhodium-plated movement, itself finished and polished by hand. An openworked version with hand-engraved movement rounds out the collection. Arabic numerals on the dial, subdial for the seconds at 6 o’clock and streamlined watch hands. With leather strap.