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Audemars Piguet Skeleton Automatic - 18K Yellow Gold Openworked Dial

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Details
Hand-Engraved Gold With Ruby Jewels
The openworked dial on this Audemars Piguet skeleton automatic is set with visible red ruby jewels. Its plates and bridges are skeletonized and hand-engraved, a process that removes all non-essential material to reveal the inner workings of the movement. This isn't simply a watch with a see-through back; the movement itself forms the dial. Contrasting black hands are used for legibility against the complex backdrop of gears and springs.
Through the sapphire exhibition caseback, a skeletonized 21K gold rotor powers the automatic caliber. The case is a stepped round design in 18K yellow gold, with sculpted teardrop lugs that give the watch a distinct profile. Every component is finished to an exceptionally high standard, turning the entire mechanism into a piece of kinetic art.
A 1980s Dress Watch Heritage
This piece comes from a period when Audemars Piguet was a master of the classical dress watch, before the Royal Oak came to define its modern identity. In the 1980s, the manufacture's reputation was built on its expertise in movement finishing and complex case construction, often blurring the line between high watchmaking and fine jewelry. This skeleton watch is a direct product of that tradition.
These watches were produced for a clientele that valued craft and discretion. The focus was on precious metals, slim profiles, and movements that were as beautiful as they were functional. The hand-engraved bridges and 21K gold rotor show the same attention to finishing that defined the house's dress watches in that decade.
Sharp Case And Original Alligator
The sharp factory lines of the case and the preserved state of the movement put this piece in Very Good Vintage Condition overall. The 18K yellow gold case shows only light signs of wear consistent with its age. The openworked dial and the hands are clean, with the hand-engraved surfaces fully intact. It's fitted on its original black alligator strap, signed by Audemars Piguet, which remains in excellent shape and is secured by a smooth yellow gold pin buckle. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.
Balanced At Under Thirty-Four Grams
Just under 34 grams total, the weight sits evenly on the wrist. Its proportions are classical, sitting low without commanding undue attention. This is a configuration that has outlasted decades of changing trends because its appeal is based on craft, not size. The hand-finished movement and solid gold case ensure it will remain a relevant and compelling piece for years to come.
Key Specs
Era: 1980s
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 35mm
Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Stepped
Bracelet Length: 6.75-8.7in
Strap: Black Alligator Leather
Dial: Openworked Gold Skeleton
Metal: 18K Yellow Gold
Weight: 33.9g
SKU: 1942
Fit & Customization
This watch should feel like it was made for your wrist from the moment you put it on. That's why we offer:
  • Strap Customization: Any two-piece strap swapped and custom-fitted in your choice of material, color, and length
  • Standard Bracelet Sizing: Precise link additions or removals to achieve your exact fit
  • Integrated Bracelet Sizing: A bespoke service few boutiques are equipped to handle
  • Custom Caseback Engraving: Personalize your watch with initials, dates, or custom text engraved on the caseback
Contact us about this item or your order, and we'll take it from there.