104th Auction
2021/5/22
Lot 43
Audemars PiguetMillenary
An elegant Geneva wristwatch in practically new condition, with chronograph, date, telemeter and tachy scale - with original box, original certificate and operating instructions
Sold
estimated
4.500—6.000 €
Price realized
6.000 €
specific features
Case
Steel, screwed on back with engraving, crown with sapphire cabochon, AP steel bracelet.
Dial
Black.
Movement
Automatic.
Case no.E 80740
Ref.25897ST/O/1136ST/02
Cal.2226/2840
Diam.41 x 45 mm
Circa2002
Ctry.Swiss
Wt.1 g
The horizontal oval shape of the Millenary case was actually inspired by an older design dating from 1951, which at the time had soon been abandoned because it was not as popular as other oval cases. The design was revived in 1995 and called "Millenary" to commemorate the approaching turn of the millennium. Even though the watch enthusiasts were hesitant about the unusual shape at first, Audemars Piguet expanded the range and experimented with subtle but significant updates to the original design. The lugs became bolder, the numerals more exaggerated and the dials took even more asymmetrical shapes. Soon the Millenaries were regarded as one of the most audacious ranges Audemars Piguet ever created.