Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet has once again captured the essence of its storied past with the introduction of the [RE]Master02 Selfwinding. This exquisite timepiece pays homage to an asymmetrical watch from 1960, model 5159BA, and follows the path set by [RE]Master01, which reinterpreted a 1943 chronograph in 2020.
The [RE]Master02 is a limited edition, with only 250 pieces available. It features a distinctive 41mm rectangular case, crafted from an innovative 18-carat sand gold alloy. This material, a blend of gold, copper, and palladium, offers a dynamic color that shifts between white and pink gold depending on light and angle.
The dial of the [RE]Master02 is a technical marvel, made using Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) to achieve its “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” hue. It is composed of twelve geometric brass triangles of varying sizes and shapes, separated by galvanised sand-gold-toned partitions that converge at the center. Each triangle is individually machined and finished with a linear satin treatment before being mounted on a brass plate with tiny legs. This meticulous assembly creates a dial that plays with light and shadow, offering a unique visual effect. The hour and minute hands, also crafted in 18-carat sand gold, align with the dial’s diagonal lines, while the “Audemars Piguet” signature at 3 o’clock is obtained through galvanic growth. The omission of hour markers and date indications emphasizes the geometric design and enhances legibility, with the dial’s diagonals aiding in time reading. The sapphire crystal features a 15.8° bevel—a design choice resulting from two years of research and development to ensure durability, water resistance, and compliance with Audemars Piguet’s stringent quality standards.
is a modern reinterpretation of a brutalist model from 1960
Equipped with the Calibre 7129, the [RE]Master02 seamlessly integrates vintage appeal with modern functionality. This movement, based on the Calibre 7121 from the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin models, boasts a thickness of just 2.8mm. It features a larger barrel for enhanced energy storage and greater precision over time. The oscillating weight, mounted on ball bearings, includes two reversers for bidirectional winding, while inertia blocks integrated into the balance wheel reduce aerodynamic friction and improve accuracy.
Audemars Piguet’s attention to detail is evident in the sand gold case, which is finished with a satin texture to achieve a matte, raw appearance, contrasting with the polished contours of the dial. The asymmetrical design of the case is highlighted by the bevelled sapphire crystal, which adds to the visual impact. The caseback, also in sand gold, is engraved with “Limited Edition” and features a matching asymmetrical oscillating weight.
case, granting this model with the nickname “[RE]Master The Edge.
The dial’s geometric design, with twelve individually machined brass triangles separated by sand-gold-toned partitions, offers a dynamic visual experience. The hour and minute hands, crafted in sand gold, harmonize with the case and dial, ensuring easy readability.
Complementing the watch is an elegant alligator leather strap in blue, matching the dial’s tone and enhancing the overall aesthetic. The strap’s matt finish adds to the sophisticated play of light.
Sébastian Vivas, Heritage and Museum Director at Audemars Piguet, highlights the significance of this release:
“Between 1959 and 1963, Audemars Piguet created more than 30 asymmetrical models, most of which were produced in less than 10 pieces. [RE]Master02 is a fantastic opportunity to revive this forgotten golden age.”
It was produced in only 7 units.
The [RE]Master collection, launched in 2020, embodies Audemars Piguet’s spirit of innovation and respect for tradition. By reinterpreting rare and emblematic timepieces from its archives, the collection offers a contemporary twist on classic designs. The [RE]Master02, with its unique materials, refined craftsmanship, and cutting-edge movement, continues this legacy, celebrating the brand’s rich history while embracing the future.
The craftsmanship behind the [RE]Master02 extends to its intricate decorations. The Calibre 7129 features refined finishes such as Côtes de Genève, circular satin, snailing, sunray brushing, circular graining, and polished angles. These exquisite details can be admired through the sapphire caseback, which also reveals the dedicated 22-carat gold oscillating weight, subtly echoing the sand gold tone of the case.
Ilaria Resta, Chief Executive Officer at Audemars Piguet, reflects on the brand’s philosophy:
“Audemars Piguet has always been attached to its past while looking to the future. The [RE]Master collection perfectly embodies this spirit and pays tribute to our long watchmaking tradition, marked by timepieces that are emblematic of their era, reinterpreted today using the most advanced technologies and a resolutely contemporary approach.”
Launched in 2020 to celebrate the opening of the new Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus, the first model in the [RE]Master collection reinterpreted a rare chronograph from 1943. This limited edition of 500 pieces retained the aesthetic codes of the original timepiece with its two-tone steel and pink gold case enriched with a gold-toned dial. However, this remastered edition introduced a modern twist with a larger 40mm case, repositioned counters for enhanced legibility, and a latest-generation chronograph movement, the Calibre 4409.
original chronograph from 1943: a two-tone steel and pink gold case enhanced by a gold-toned dial
The [RE]Master02 expands on this legacy, allowing Audemars Piguet to reinterpret some of its older timepieces that have left their mark thanks to their aesthetic singularity, form, or functionality. By combining modern techniques with enhanced ergonomics, the [RE]Master collection continues to symbolize both the tradition and the pioneering spirit that pervades every Audemars Piguet watch.
With the [RE]Master02, Audemars Piguet once again proves that it is not just preserving history but reimagining it for today’s discerning watch enthusiasts.