Since 2012, Piaget has always celebrated Chinese New Year as the key occasion to gather its Piaget Society around those moments of shared joy.
Now, marking the Year of the Rabbit, the Maison has created a limited-edition Altiplano timepiece with a hand-painted Grand Feu cloisonné enamel dial.
Created in collaboration with master enameller Anita Porchet, these 38 pieces limited edition Altiplano depict two luminous rabbits, housed in a 38 mm 18K white gold case set with 78 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.71 ct).
After eleven horological and enamel creations, this year marks the last zodiac sign in the series that is celebrating the year of the rabbit, an animal which represents hope and long life.
Powered by the Maison’s ultra-thin, manual-winding 430Pmovement, the boutique exclusive Altiplano is fitted with a black alligator leather strap.
Swiss Watchmaking and High Jewellery Maison PIAGET has partnered with the famed Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo for the first time to create the Altiplano Origin China Special Edition, limited to 21 pieces.
The timepiece celebrates the magnificent landscapes of the world’s highest plateau China’s Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with a vibrant green hue.
It is the first time for PIAGET Altiplano collection to interpret the legendary Chinese plateau since its birth in 1957, making Altiplano Origin China Special Limited Edition an unprecedented classic.
The design concept of this watch set off a wave as soon as it was released, and the watch numbered 00 will be auctioned by Phillips in Hong Kong on November 28th. The remaining 20 pieces will only be available exclusively for mainland Chinese collectors.
Inspired by the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Altiplano Origin China Special Limited Edition is a microcosm of the nature with towering mountains, vast green fields, and golden-brown earth, interpreting the beauty of nature with superb watchmaking craftsmanship.
With retro green representing the verdant earth as the main hue of the watch, the dial is lacquered in three layers of green, and every single layer has a subtle gradient green tint around the edges, which replicates the beauty of different shades of colours on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, also echoing the colour of the alligator strap and celebrating the vibrant nature. Pink gold hands and indexes are matched with green dial for the first time, reminding of green mountains on the ground.
This creative colour scheme makes the hands and indexes bold and eye-catching, the minimalist design outlines the brilliance of the earth, while the white gold case evokes the serenity of year-round snow-covered mountain ridges.
The secret Altiplano signature at 8 o’clock on the dial tells the heritage and breakthroughs of the Altiplano collection since its launch more than half a century ago. An exquisite star in the second counter at 12 o’clock mirrors the brightest North Star in the starry night sky of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, guiding the way forward and affording a warm and reassuring feel.
Through the sapphire case-back, the manual-winding mechanical movement with pink gold off-centred oscillating weight can be admired. The case-back is engraved with “PIAGET”, “PHILLIPS IN ASSOCIATION WITH BACS & RUSSO” and a limited-edition number, making it a collector’s item.
The case of this watch is 40mm in diameter and it is powered by the 1205P calibre with 44-hour power reserve, combining outstanding performance with a gorgeous design.
Technical details
Model: PIAGET X PHILLIPS Altiplano Origin China Special Limited Edition
Reference G0A47550
Case
Diameter: 40mm
Thickness: 6.36mm
18K white gold case
Sapphire case back with special engravings: “PHILLIPS IN ASSOCIATION WITH BACS & RUSSO” “Limited edition n°00/22”
Waterproof: 3 ATM
Dial
Green lacquer with pink gold-colored indexes, hands
Small seconds at 5H
Date at 9H
Secret Altiplano signature at 8’, Star at 12’ in the second counter
Inspired by the green environment surrounding the Piaget Manufacture of La Côte-aux-Fées, the iconic Swiss watch and jewellery brand presents two new Polo watches.
Enhanced with green details, two new models – the Piaget Polo Date and the Piaget Polo Skeleton – pay tribute to the power of nature.
A rose gold case contrasts the green-hued godrons (horizontal guilloche) patterns of the dial of the Piaget Polo Date. This 42mm watch houses a self-winding movement with a date display at 6 o’clock. It has a power reserve of 50 hours. The green alligator strap perfectly harmonizes with the dial color.
The Piaget Polo Skeleton with a 42mm stainless steel case has been crafted with green bridges, bringing a new style and light to the skeleton’s architectural lines.
Powering this boutique exclusive model is the Piaget 1200S1 movement with a power reserve of 44 hours. The watch is supplied with an interchangeable steel bracelet and an additional green alligator strap.
Technical details
Model: Piaget Polo Date, G0A47010
Case
Rose Gold 69.14 g
Diameter: 42 mm
Thickness: 9.4 mm
Water-resistance: 10 ATM
Sapphire case-back
Movement
1110P self-winding Manufacture mechanical movement
Engraved Piaget coat of arms on the slate grey oscillating weight
Frequency: 28,800 vph/ 4 Hz
Power reserve: approx. 50 hours
Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds, date at 6 o’clock
Bracelet
Green alligator strap
Edition
Non-limited piece
Model: Piaget Polo Skeleton, G0A47008
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter: 42 mm diameter
Thickness: 6.5 mm
Water-resistance: 3 ATM
Sapphire case-back
Movement
1200S1 Skeleton self-winding Manufacture caliber in green color
Frequency: 21,600 vph/ 3 Hz
Power reserve: approx. 44 hours
Functions
Hours and minutes
Bracelet
Interchangeable steel bracelet with additional green alligator strap
This new Piaget Limelight Gala Precious watch highlights a malachite dial framed with a beautifully coloured gradient setting of tsavorites and diamonds on the asymmetrical bezel.
Piaget has the highest selection criteria for its malachite dials. Each semi-precious stone has to be deeply coloured and feature a regular grain with contrasts, possess curved lines, and show no presence of crystals in its structure.
The timepiece is housed in a 32mm white gold case and the malachite dial is combined with a central circle fully paved with diamonds using the snow setting.
The timepiece is paired with Piaget’s signature engraved Palace Décor bracelet whose texture is so fine that it looks almost like the fabric from an haute couture gown.
The Limelight Gala Precious Tsavorite watch is adorned with 174 diamonds and 22 tsavorites. It is powered by Manufacture automatic movement 501P1 that is on full view through a sapphire caseback.
Technical details
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Tsavorite
Reference: G0A47188
Diameter: 32 mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel set with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.47 ct) and 22 brilliant-cut tsavorites (approx. 3.24 cts)
Dial with malachite stone and snow-set with 154 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.70 ct)
Self-winding mechanical manufacture movement 501P1
Functions: hours and minutes
18K white gold bracelet engraved with Palace Décor and with integrated scale clasp
This new Piaget Limelight Gala High Jewellery timepiece is the result of decades of experience of gold-smithing and gem-setting at the highest level. Over 175 hours of high jewellery expertise are needed to complete just one timepiece with over 250 diamonds coming into play.
Crafted from 18-karat white gold, the watch is secured on a fully integrated and articulated, diamond-set bracelet. The mix of diamond cuts is combined with a medley of setting techniques that give the timepiece its resolutely modern appeal.
Over 250 diamonds are meticulously positioned using a claw setting for the marquise-cut diamonds, a snow setting on the dial, a channel setting for the baguette-cut diamonds, and a grain setting for the brilliant-cut diamonds on the bracelet.
Equipped with a quartz movement, this high-jewellery watch displays the hours and minutes.
Technical details
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala High Jewellery
Reference: G0A47170
Diameter: 23×28 mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel, case and bracelet set with 98 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 7.81 cts), 87 marquise-cut diamonds (approx. 6.57 cts) and 71 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.63 ct)
Snow-set dial with 190 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 72 ct)
Manufacture quartz movement 356P
Functions: hours and minutes
A record-breaking timepiece in the ultra-thin segment, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept was first presented in Geneva at the Watches & Wonders fair in 2018. In April 2020 the first timepiece left the Piaget workshops, and in November of the same year, it won the prestigious Aiguille d’Or prize from the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
With a thickness of just 2mm, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept was the thinnest mechanical hand-wound watch when it was unveiled in 2017. Presently, Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra (released in 2022) holds the world record in this category with a 1.80mm thickness.
Most timepieces are made up of four layers: 1) the bezel and crystal, 2) the dial and hands, 3) the movement, and 4) the case back. Piaget removed this four-layer construction to create a fusion of components with the bridges, dial, and hands, on one side, and the case back, movement, main plate and bezel on the other, all coming together as one.
This fusion of watchmaking construction features five patents that have enabled the Maison to create a timepiece that is a mere 2mm in height, from the underside of the caseback to the top of the sapphire crystal.
Starting at the top of the dial, the Piaget logo is in a historic font that is the same typeface used in the logo above the manufacture in La Côte-aux-Fées, the village where Piaget was born and remains today.
Two enlarged circles sit among the dots of the minute ring, marking the time – 7:47 – when the AUC first came to life. At 2:30, the birthday of the AUC – 7th February 2017, is inscribed in a small window. And a “La Côte-aux-Fées” inscription has also been engraved onto the ratchet wheel along with the manufacture’s GPS coordinates.
Completing the tribute, the background of the dial features stars illuminated with Super-LumiNova that replicate the sky above La Côte-aux-Fées at the exact date and time of the AUC’s birth.
The caseback, bezel and lugs have all been satin brushed making a nice contrast to the case band that is polished. The timepiece is paired with an extremely thin dark blue alligator strap that does not exceed 1.5mm, in keeping with the watch’s ultra-thin design.
The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept watch has a power reserve of 40 hours.
Case
Diameter: 41 mm
Thickness: 2.0mm
Case material: cobalt-based high-tech alloy
Rectangular-shaped crown recessed into the caseband
Monobloc bezel integrated into the frame with 0.2mm thick crystal
Movement
Calibre Piaget 900P-UC merge with watch exterior
Five patents pending
Power reserve: approx. 45 hours
Frequency: 28,800 vph/ 4 Hz
Number of jewels: 13
Functions
Hours, Minutes offset at 12 o’clock
Face
SuperLuminova constellation on the mainplate representing the sky above the Manufacture at the date and time when the first AUC started beating for the first time.
Piaget historical logo on the hour disc, with 2 circles at 7 and 47 and the date
“07 février 2017” engraved on a small plat at 2:30, marking the birth of the first AUC.
“La Côte-aux-Fées” and the Manufacture’s coordinate engraved onto the ratchet wheel.
Finishing
Dark slate blue PVD-treated and satin-brushed bezel and caseback
Strap
Delivered with an Alligator leather strap and a blue baltimora textile strap, 1.5mm thin with ultra – thin cobalt alloy pin buckle
Awarded the Aiguille d’or for the Altiplano Ultimate Concept in 2020, Piaget was once again in the spotlight this year at the GPHG when receiving two prizes for the best watch in the Ladies’ category for the Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow and in the mechanical exception category for the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow
For the very first time, Piaget has created this year a rainbow setting with a spectacular array of green tsavorites and coloured sapphires ranging from red, orange, yellow, blue, indigo and violet and taking centre stage around the bezel and on the lugs.
Sourcing progressively-sized, coloured gemstones of this calibre is extremely challenging. Piaget’s gemmologists searched long and hard for the exact colours, carat, cut, and clarity. The setting of this piece also demanded particular patience and expertise from the Maison’s gem-setters who needed to create the perfect colour and size transition from one gemstone to the next using an intricate technique called “Sertie Descendu” that magnifies the brilliance of each gemstone.
The Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow watch showcases a 32mm rose gold case with a matching dial. Both the bracelet and the dial have been decorated with Piaget’s signature Palace Décor. This timepiece is the perfect fusion of the Maison’s expertise in watchmaking, goldsmithing and gem-setting.
Piaget is one of the rare Maisons that has the savoir-faire to craft hand-made gold bracelets. The work of a chainsmith is similar to that of an Haute-Couture dressmaker. The artisan will start with hundreds of gold links, which will be tightly assembled. The next step is the soldering of the countless miniature links that will result in a bracelet of remarkable suppleness. Only a few artisans, who work in Piaget’s “Atelier de l’Extraordinaire”, have the expertise to hand-engrave this pattern. The decoration alone took two hours to complete on the dial and eight hours to finish across the bracelet.
Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic
The Altiplano Ultimate Automatic is rich from a legacy in ultra-thin movements that date back to 1957 and 1960 – with the birth of the historically thin 9P and 12P movements – the Altiplano collection continues the journey of the Maison’s savoir-faire in ultra-thin watchmaking.
The Altiplano Ultimate Automatic has an unusual and innovative construction that merges the case with the movement. This watch displays an ex-centred blue dial at 10 o’clock and a beautiful view on the movement. In spite of the watch’s thinness, the dial has incredible depth thanks to a reverse assembly of the bridges on the dial side of the watch.
The raising of the bridges also prevents the watch from stopping when pressure is exerted on the sapphire crystal. The crystal will naturally and safely bend during everyday life or underwater, for example. So, instead of the crystal touching and stopping the hands, it is blocked by the raised bridges. This invention is protected by a patent that covers several of Piaget’s ultra-thin movements.
The suspended barrel is held by one single bridge on the dial side and a peripheral rotor made of blue coloured 22K gold that is highly visible as it spins around the outside of the movement, winding the watch as it goes. The rotor is made out of gold to give enough weight to make it turn efficiently and its peripheral design helps Piaget’s watchmakers to shave even more millimetres off of the movement’s height.
The Piaget Rose is best-known as one of the Maison’s exquisite jewellery collections, but it is also the name of an award-winning flower named after Yves Piaget. This rose comes in a unique and vibrant shade of fuchsia and is appreciated for its large bloom with 80 layers of petals and its fragrance that features hints of citrus.
The Piaget Rose was born in 2002 in the Maison’s High Jewellery collections and has continued to bloom ever since. Piaget dreamed up elegant gold and diamond bouquets, which were followed by creations featuring diva-pink tourmalines and candy-pink opals. Over the years the Maison has created an array of jewels inspired by the Yves Piaget Rose.
This year, Piaget added a Piaget Rose Ring (G34UX200) and four Altiplano Rose Bouquet Métiers d’Art timepieces to this iconic collection.
The Piaget Rose timepieces have been interpreted with an array of Métiers d’Art over the years, including micro mosaic, wood and stone marquetry, embroidery, engraving, guilloché, and miniature enamel. This year sees the arrival of four new timepieces that combine a mesmerizing mix of gold engraving, ornamental stones, glyptic, and enamel.
Ornamental stones have been dear to Piaget since the 1960s and the art of micro-sculpting and engraving them is called glyptic or glyptography. Glyptic is mainly used on large stones in jewellery, and it is rare to see it on this miniature scale.
Each of the four dials depicts a bouquet of Piaget Roses in all their splendour thanks to the expert work of two artisans: Dick Steenman, who is a watchmaking artisan, jeweller, gem-setter, and engraver, and Anita Porchet, the watch industry’s most renowned enamel artist. Both artists have years of experience and are leaders in their respective fields.
Dick Steenman has created several glyptic timepieces and jewellery for Piaget, including an Extremely Piaget hand-engraved emerald cuff bracelet, a one-of-a-kind Golden Oasis Glyptic & Enamel timepiece, and a Wings of Light timepiece to name a few. His favourite mediums include miniature gold and glyptic sculpture and he never ceases to push the boundaries of his creativity by fusing watchmaking and jewellery techniques.
Anita Porchet has been collaborating with Piaget since 2006, and is renowned for her mastery of all the enamelling techniques, from the most complicated miniature, to cloisonné, champlevé, grisaille and paillonné.
Together, Anita Porchet and Dick Steenman have created four unique dials using gold, imperial jasper, coral, chrysoprase, mokaïte, enamel, and mother-of-pearl of various colours.
These ornamental precious stones and materials have been combined with Piaget’s ultra-thin 430P movement in the creation of four exquisite limited editions of eight pieces.
Each dial comes to life in the hands of Dick Steenman who sculpts and engraves each miniature Piaget Rose in gold so that Anita Porchet can add the perfect shade of enamel.
All four limited editions come in an ultrathin 36mm, 18-karat gold cases set with baguette-cut diamonds. Three of the four timepieces are adorned with ornamental stones as well as pink sapphires, green tsavorites and diamonds.
The fourth one features an engraved solid gold dial adorned with pink sapphires amethysts and diamonds. Each timepiece is limited to eight pieces.
Technical details
Model: Altiplano Rose Bouquet Métiers d’Art, Reference: G0A46216
Case
18K rose gold
Diameter: 36mm
Thickness: 7.6mm
Case set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx.1.63cts) and 279 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.1.47cts)
Crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx.0.06ct)
Movement
Piaget Manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical 430P movement
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 43 hours
Dial
Dial with ornamental stones glyptic, golden graving and enamel
Set with 9 brilliant-cut green tsavorites (approx.0.02ct) and 37 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.18ct)
Strap
Coral alligator strap with 18K rose gold ardillon buckle set with 23 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.04ct)
Edition
Limited and numbered edition of 8 pieces
Boutique exclusivity
Case
18K rose gold
Diameter: 36mm
Thickness: 7.6mm
Case set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx.1.63cts) and 279 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.1.47cts)
Crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx.0.06ct)
Movement
Piaget Manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical 430P movement
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 43hours
Dial
Dial with ornamental stones glyptic, gold engraving and enamel
Set with 28 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx. 0.14ct), 8 brilliant-cut green tsavorites (approx.0.02ct) and 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.05ct)
Strap
Pink alligator strap with 18K rose gold ardillon buckle set with 23 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.04ct)
Edition
Limited and numbered edition of 8 pieces
Boutique exclusivity
Model: Altiplano Rose Bouquet Métiers d’Art, Reference: G0A46218
Case
18K rose gold
Diameter: 36mm
Thickness: 7.6mm
Case set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx.1.63cts) and 279 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.47cts)
Crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx. 0.06ct)
Movement
Piaget Manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical 430P movement
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 43 hours
Dial
Dial with ornamental stones glyptic, gold engraving and enamel
Set with 14 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx. 0.07ct),11 brilliant-cut green tsavorites (approx. 0.02ct) and 24 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.12ct)
Strap
Raspberry alligator strap with 18K rose gold ardillon buckle set with 23 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.04ct)
Edition
Limited and numbered edition of 8 pieces
Boutique exclusivity
Model: Altiplano Rose Bouquet Métiers d’Art, Reference: G0A46219
Case
18K rose gold
Diameter: 36mm
Thickness: 7.6mm
Case set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 1.63cts) and 279 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.47cts)
Crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx. 0.06ct)
Movement
Piaget Manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical 430P movement
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 43 hours
Dial
Dial with gold engraving
Set with 23 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx.0.12ct), 6 brilliant-cut purple amethysts (approx.0.04ct) and 12 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.06ct)
Strap
Pink alligator strap with 18K rose gold ardillon buckle set with 23 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.04ct)
Edition
Limited and numbered edition of 8 pieces
Boutique exclusivity
Piaget Rose Ring (reference G34UX200)
Two delicately-crafted Piaget Rose rings join the collection in a choice of pink or green. Pink for the vibrant colour of the Piaget Rose petals and green for the deep hue of the flower’s foliage. At the centre of each ring, a stunning tourmaline of approximately 5 carats is surrounded by gold and diamond buds, and Piaget Rose flowers.
Each layer of rose petals is meticulously finished and set before being mounted on the ring in an asymmetrical design. The original and audacious setting is inspired by Piaget’s high jewellery creations and shows an exceptional level of detail that even includes a delicate “Rose ajourée” openwork decor that is secretly hidden on the back of each ring.
The tourmaline, also called indigolite or indicolite, is named after the colour indigo. Tourmalines usually come in a deep indigo blue but can also come in a shade of greenish/ blue which is intense and luminous in colour.
This vibrant greenish/blue brings an impressive depth to each gemstone. The indicolites selected by Piaget come in this greenish/ blue colour and are very joyful, a mood which is reflected in all of Piaget’s creations.
These greenish/blue tourmalines are rare and sought-after gemstones. It is extremely difficult to find blue/green tourmalines with such a perfect tone and saturation balance that are not too dark in colour.
The delicate rose-coloured tourmaline has been prized by jewellers for centuries. This exact shade of colour and size is also quite rare to find. Tourmalines are appreciated by jewellers for their hardness and tenacity that means they can stand the test of time. They have also become increasingly rare as the few known deposits are now almost exhausted, adding to the magic of the tourmaline.
The large pink and green tourmalines are cut into an oval shape, which is the best cut for coloured gemstones to allow the colour to be concentrated where the eye can see it and maximize brilliance and shine. All the stones are also cut in accordance with Piaget’s extremely high-quality standards.
The green tourmaline ring comes in rose gold with 154 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.69 cts), one oval green tourmaline (approx. 4.92 cts) and 8 pear-shaped green tourmalines (approx. 1.36 cts).
The pink tourmaline is set in a white gold ring with 154 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.69 cts), one oval pink tourmaline (approx. 4.94 cts) and 8 pear-shaped pink tourmalines (approx. 1.36 cts).
Limited Edition of 38 pieces, this new Piaget Altiplano Tourbillon watch features an eye-catching aventurine glass dial and a 38mm diameter white gold case with a diamond-set bezel
Aventurine glass is a magical material that mirrors the starry night sky. The Altiplano Tourbillon Aventurine dial features an ultra-thin flying tourbillon carriage in an off-centered window at 2 o’clock. The tourbillon cage forms an infinity symbol (figure of 8) along with the offset dial positioned at 8 o’clock.
In 2017, Piaget celebrated the 60th anniversary of its ultra-thin movement with the unveiling of the ultra-thin Altiplano Flying Tourbillon, putting the movement at the service of the design.
This manufacture manual-winding movement featured the time at eight o’clock and the tourbillon at two o’clock. It is comprised of 157 ultra-thin and ultra-light components, such as a carriage measuring a mere 2.88mm, and three titanium bridges weighing no more than 0.2g.
This watch comes in a 38mm white gold case with baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel, a first for an Altiplano Tourbillon of this size. The lugs and the crown are set with 13 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.19 ct) while the bezel is adorned with 48 baguette- cut diamonds (approx. 2.06 cts).
This Altiplano timepiece houses the Piaget Manufacture 670P Tourbillon calibre. Its sapphire case back provides a stunning view of this ultra-thin movement.
The Piaget Altiplano Tourbillon also holds a patent for its stem mechanism, featuring an intermediate wheel that looks like a staircase and enables the user to set the time of the off-centered dial — another first in the watch industry.
The watch is paired with a dark blue alligator strap with an 18K white gold clasp adorned with 24 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06 ct).
Case
Material: 18K white gold
Diameter: 38 mm
Thickness: 7.35mm
Lugs and crown set with 13 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.19ct)
Bezel set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 2.06 cts)
Sapphire case back
Movement
Piaget manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical Tourbillon movement (670P)
Power reserve: 48 hours
Dial
Aventurine glass dial with white gold coloured index
Functions
Off-centered hours and minutes at 8 o’ clock, flying tourbillon at 2 o’ clock, seconds indicated by the tourbillon carriage at 2 o’ clock
Strap
Shiny dark blue alligator strap with 18K white gold folding clasp, set with 24 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.06ct)
During this year’s Watches & Wonders digital event, Piaget launched six spectacular Piaget Limelight Gala Limited Editions. These creations combine high watchmaking and high jewellery.
Piaget Limelight Gala was first unveiled in the seventies with a now-iconic design incorporating sensual lines, a cambered case, and asymmetrical lugs. Almost half a century later and the Limelight Gala continues to turn heads with its perfectly integrated gold case and bracelet, and lugs adorned with exquisite gemstones.
The name of the collection was inspired by the Piaget Society and its fabulous parties with film stars, artists, clients, and friends of the Maison who shared a certain art de vivre. Celebrities such as Salvador Dali, Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Andy Warhol, Cary Grant, and Sami Davis Jr., would join Piaget for these unforgettable moments together.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Limited Editions
This year Piaget presents three delightful new coloured Limelight Gala Precious timepieces in blue, yellow, and pink. The three colours follow the course of the sun throughout the day, with blue for the morning sky, yellow representing the sun at its zenith, and pink depicting the glow of the setting sun.
Each model is adorned with a flowing gradient of coloured sapphires and diamonds that start in intense hues around the bezel and gently lighten as they reach the tips of the lugs.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sunrise
Finding the exact shade and size of sapphire is an art in itself as Piaget’s gemmologists sift through countless stones to be able to create a seamless swirl of colour with the perfect transition from gemstone to gemstone. Each model is powered by the automatic movement, Piaget’s Calibre 501P1.
The Limelight Gala Precious Sunrise comes in a 32mm 18K white gold case and bezel set with 32 brilliant-cut blue sapphires (approx. 4.70 cts.) and 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90 ct.) that evoke the bright blue colour of a sunny morning sky. The dial is created with a snow setting of diamonds (289 in total, with approx. 1.76 cts.) that magnifies the reflections and refractions of light thanks to a glorious mix of different- sized gemstones.
The 18K white gold bracelet is also a work of art in itself thanks to its incredible suppleness and Palace Decor that is one of the Maison’s signature motifs. It takes one of Piaget’s artisans over eight hours to complete one bracelet.
The Limelight Gala Precious Sunrise watch is limited to 18 pieces.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala Precious Sunrise, G0A46183
Diameter: 32mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel set with 32 brilliant-cut blue sapphires (approx. 4.70cts) and 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90ct)
Snow-set dial paved with 289 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.76cts)
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P1)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
18K white gold bracelet engraved with Palace Décor and with integrated scale clasp
Limited to18 pieces
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Zenith
The brightness of the sun as it reaches its zenith comes to life in Piaget’s Limelight Gala Precious Zenith. An array of yellow sapphires and diamonds evoke all the dazzle and splendour from the midday sun.
Housed in a 32mm 18K white gold case, a gradient of sunny yellow gemstones circles the bezel with 32 brilliant-cut yellow sapphires (approx. 4.70 cts.) transitioning to 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90 ct.), starting with the deepest yellow in the centre and radiating out along the lugs.
The dial features a snow setting of diamonds for maximum sparkle (289 in total, with approx. 1.76 cts.) and a high jewellery bracelet continues the colour scheme in a river of diamonds and yellow sapphires that are set in such a way that the bracelet feels like a second skin on the wrist. The bracelet includes 124 brilliant-cut yellow sapphires (approx. 4.58 cts.) and 276 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 9.95 cts.).
The Limelight Gala Precious Zenith watch is limited to 8 pieces.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala Precious Zenith, G0A46189
Diameter: 32mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel set with 32 brilliant-cut yellow sapphires (approx. 4.70cts) and 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90ct)
Snow-set dial paved with 289 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.76cts)
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P1)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
18K white gold bracelet set with 124 brilliant-cut yellow and sapphires (approx. 4.58cts) and 276 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 9.95cts)
Limited to 8 pieces
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sunset
This timepiece is housed in a 32mm 18K rose gold case with a bezel of 32 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx. 4.70 cts.) transitioning to 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90 cts.). This array of pink gemstones swirls around an elegant white mother-of-pearl dial whose pearl effect shimmers in the light.
The Limelight Gala Precious Sunset is fitted with a white satin strap and an 18K rose gold ardillon buckle that is set with 15 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06 ct.).
The Limelight Gala Precious Sunset watch is limited to 50 pieces. The watch is equipped with a manufacture self-winding, which is visible through the sapphire crystal back.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala Precious Sunset, G0A46182
Diameter: 32mm
Watch in 18K rose gold
Bezel set with 32 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx. 4.70cts) and 10 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.90ct)
White Mother-of-Pearl dial
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P1)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
White satin strap with an 18K rose gold ardillon buckle, set with 15 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06ct)
Limited to 50 pieces
Piaget Limelight Gala High Jewellery Black Opal
This exquisite high-jewellery wristwatch features a rare black opal dial from Australia.
The sensual curves of the Limelight Gala are accentuated by a row of 91 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 5.28 cts.) that circle the bezel, lugs, and bracelet. Piaget has added a spectacular row of 83 marquise-cut emeralds (approx. TBC) to this line of sparkling diamonds, creating a sense of movement across the timepiece, and bringing out the deep green hues of the opal dial.
The marquise cut was named after the French Marquise de Pompadour for whom Louis XV had created a specific gem-cut in the shape of her lips. Since the 1960s, Piaget has often worked with this feminine and sensual cut to accentuate the femininity of its creations.
Each marquise-cut gemstone is held in place by a delicate claw-setting that testifies to Piaget’s extraordinary high-jewellery expertise. The timepiece is powered by the Maison’s 56P quartz movement.
One of Yves Piaget’s favourite ornamental stones, the black opal offers a unique crystallographic pattern creating glorious blue and green hues that change with the light and vividly illustrate the richness of the earth.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala High-Jewellery, G0A46172
Diameter: 36x28mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel, lugs and bracelet set with one row of 83 marquise-cut emeralds (approx. 8.18cts) and one row of 91 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 5.25cts)
Dial with black opal from Australia
Piaget manufacture quartz movement (56P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow
For the very first time in its history, Piaget has created a rainbow setting with a spectacular array of green tsavorites and coloured sapphires that range from red, orange, yellow, blue, indigo and violet, taking centre stage around the bezel and on the lugs.
Sourcing progressively-sized, coloured gemstones of this calibre is extremely challenging. Piaget’s gemmologists searched long and hard for the exact colours, carat, cut, and clarity, explaining why the series is numbered and limited.
The setting of this piece also demanded particular patience and expertise from the Maison’s gem-setters who needed to create the perfect colour and size transition from one gemstone to the next using an intricate technique called “Sertie Descendu” that magnifies the brilliance of each gemstone.
The automatic Limelight Gala 18K rose gold comes in a 32mm case, with a matching dial and the bracelet that have both been decorated with Piaget’s signature Palace decoration. This timepiece is the perfect fusion of the Maison’s expertise in watchmaking, goldsmithing and gem-setting.
Piaget is one of the few remaining Maisons that has the savoir-faire to craft hand-made gold bracelets. This rare traditional craft started in the 1960s and became hugely popular thanks to Piaget’s bold creations. Mainly inspired by nature, Piaget has used over one hundred different life-like motifs to adorn its hand-made gold bracelets, such as leather design, ocean waves, frost, flowers, foliage, bark, snake scales and many more.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala Precious Rainbow, G0A46188
Diameter: 32mm
Watch in 18K rose gold
Bezel set with 5 brilliant-cut green tsavorites (approx. 0.91ct) and 37 brilliant-cut coloured sapphires ranging from red to orange, yellow, blue, indigo and violet (approx. 7.90cts)
18K rose gold dial engraved with Palace Décor
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P1)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
18K rose gold bracelet engraved with Palace Décor and with integrated scale clasp
Numbered edition
Piaget Limelight Gala Mother-of-Pearl Palace
The Limelight Gala Mother-of-Pearl Palace timepiece is housed in a 26 mm 18K rose gold case adorned with the finest quality diamonds and features a mother-of-pearl dial that has been delicately engraved with the same Palace Decor motifs.
As the engraving is done by hand, each dial is unique. This Limelight Gala model is limited to 300 pieces and comes on a white alligator strap.
Technical details
Model: Limelight Gala Mother-of-Pearl Palace, G0A46151
Diameter: 26mm
Watch in 18K rose gold
Bezel set with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.92ct)
Hand-engraved mother-of-pearl dial with Palace Décor
Piaget manufacture quartz movement (59P)
Functions: hours and minutes
White alligator strap with an 18K rose gold ardillon buckle, set with one brilliant-cut diamond (approx.0.01ct)
In 2018 at Geneva’s Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), Piaget unveiled a prototype of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept, the world’s thinnest hand-wound mechanical watch. In 2020, it was launched in the commercial market. Piaget also won the coveted “Aiguille d’Or” at 2020’s prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) for its Altipano Ultimate Concept.
During the Watches and Wonders 2021 event, Piaget unveiled a special version of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept as a tribute to the Swiss Jura village of La Côte-aux-Fées, where Georges Edouard Piaget founded his eponymous watch company in 1874 and where the design, development and creation of every ultra-thin Piaget movement from the 9P calibre to that of “the thinnest watch in the world” has been carried out.
To create this special edition, Piaget took inspiration from the landscape of La Côte-aux-Fées, the Jura village known for its greenness in spring and summer.
The Altiplano Ultimate Concept, tribute to La Côte-aux-Fées has a bridge, screws, hands and a dial in a deep, forest green and complemented by a matching strap in alligator leather. The highly polished, cobalt alloy case contrasts beautifully with the richness of the green detailing, evoking the feeling of a typical spring or summer’s day in the hills and fields around the village that has been Piaget’s home for almost 150 years. And, as a reminder of that, the main plate is subtly engraved with the year of the company’s founding, 1874.
Each Altiplano Ultimate Concept creation is entrusted to a single watchmaker in the Côte-aux-Fées due to the unique skills required to work on one of the most technically advanced mechanical timepieces of the 21st century. The movement baseplate is machined directly into an ultra-resistant cobalt alloy case which is so thin that 0.12mm separates the movement from the wearer’s skin.
Other parts have been drastically re-sized, with wheels being reduced from a conventional 0.20mm thick to 0.12mm and the sapphire crystal being pared-down by 80 percent to just 0.2mm.
The mainspring barrel is also of an entirely new design that has no cover or drum but is mounted on a single, ceramic ball-bearing within the frame of the watch allowing a 45 hours power reserve.
The crown, meanwhile, has been re-invented to take the form of a flat, telescopic system (with its own, bespoke winding tool) that fits flush with the case band and in which the conventional sliding pinion clutch and crown wheel are substituted for a single, “infinite screw”.
The dial’s off-centre position, meanwhile, meant that a conventional, straight winding stem could not be used – a problem Piaget solved by the creation of a patented “staggered” stem.
Technical details
Model: ALTIPLANO ULTIMATE CONCEPT “Tribute to La Côte-aux-Fées”
Reference: G0A46503
Diameter: 41mm/ Thickness: 2.0mm
Watch made from a cobalt-based high-tech alloy
Calibre and watch exterior merge as one
Rectangular-shaped crown recessed in to the case band
Monobloc bezel integrated into the frame
0.2mm thick crystal glass
Calibre: Piaget 900P-UC
Power reserve: approx. 45 hours
Frequency: 28,800vph/ 4Hz
Number of jewels: 13
Functions: Hours and Minutes offset at 12 o’ clock
Finishing: Polished case with green satin-brushed ALD-treated bridge and dial
Piaget’s founding date 1874 engraved on the mainplate
Green alligator leather strap with cobalt-alloy pin buckle
Piaget expands its fabulous Altiplano collection by presenting the Altiplano Origin 35mm watch model.
The origins of the Altiplano go right back to the first ultrathin Piaget dress watches that were born from the creation of the hand-wound 9P calibre in 1957, one of the slimmest mechanical movements of the era.
It was followed by the 2.3mm 12P calibre of 1960, which instantly captured a record for being the thinnest self-winding movement ever made.
Since then, Piaget has set further records by creating ultra-thin movements across the whole range of horological categories from skeleton and diamond-set skeleton watches to those featuring date displays and others powered by automatic and manual-winding mechanisms. In 2020, the Maison has also been responsible for the thinnest mechanical watch in the world, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept which is only 2mm thin.
The “Altiplano” collection was introduced in 1998 to describe an ongoing line of ultra-thin and superbly elegant designs – the latest of which is the Altiplano Origin 35mm. The Altiplano is a region of south-eastern Peru and western Bolivia which is renowned for being very flat. Piaget chose this name to encompass the thinness of its watches.
Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45405
The Altiplano Origin is the first 35mm Altiplano to be fitted with the self-winding 501P movement. Available in beautifully understated form with a plain rose gold case, or with rose or white gold cases featuring bezels subtly adorned with 76 brilliant-cut diamonds set by Piaget’s master jewellers, the Altiplano Origin 35mm exudes quiet elegance in every guise. Both the gold case and the movement are produced entirely in-house.
Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45406
Sapphire case backs allow an unhindered view of the beautifully-finished, ultra-slim movement with its oscillating weight engraved with the Piaget coat of arms, while close examination of the eight o’clock hour marker on the silvered dial reveals a discreet “Altiplano” signature.
Rose gold versions are fitted with quick- change straps in shiny red alligator leather, while the white gold model gets a similar strap in shiny blue – with an extensive range of other colours available, all of which can be effortlessly swapped in and out.
Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45407
Technical details
Model: Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45405
Diameter: 35mm
Thickness: 8.1mm
Watch in 18K rose gold
Silvered dial with rose gold applied baton indexes
Altiplano signature at 8 o’clock
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
Self-interchangeable shiny red alligator leather strap with rose gold ardillon buckle
Model: Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45406
Diameter: 35mm
Thickness: 8.1mm
Watch in 18K rose gold
Bezel set with 76 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.49ct)
Silvered dial with rose gold applied baton indexes
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
Self-interchangeable shiny red alligator leather strap with rose gold ardillon buckle
Model: Piaget Altiplano Origin in 35mm, Reference G0A45407
Diameter: 35mm
Thickness: 8.1mm
Watch in 18K white gold
Bezel set with 76 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.49ct)
Silvered dial with rose gold applied baton indexes
Piaget manufacture self-winding mechanical movement (501P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Sapphire case-back
Self-interchangeable shiny blue alligator leather strap with rose gold ardillon buckle
Following the launch of the stainless steel Polo Skeleton watch earlier this year, Piaget has proposed four new skeleton models with 18 karat gold cases. Announced during the Watches and Wonders 2021 event, this new edition includes one rose gold version, one white gold variant with a diamond- set bezel and two fully paved versions featuring cases and movements that are decorated with a glittering array of up to 573 brilliant and baguette-cut stones.
For the new gold-cased versions of the Piaget Polo Skeleton, the Maison has taken its already exquisite ultra-thin, self-winding movement – which measures a wafer-like 2.4mm – and pared it down in order to place its key components at centre stage, allowing the world outside a glimpse of the tantalising mechanical ballet that is more usually seen only by the watch maker.
By using an off-centred oscillating weight that has been integrated within the mechanism (rather than being placed on top of it in conventional fashion), Piaget’s design engineers have ensured the clearest possible view of the movement without compromising the quest for slimness of the movement and of the watch.
For those seeking the perfect combination of a skeleton aesthetic with the luxury of a gold case in a watch sufficiently versatile to be worn both day and night, the Piaget Polo Skeleton in rose gold is an ideal choice.
Measuring 42mm in diameter and just 6.5mm thick, it carries the signature Piaget Polo combination of a round bezel encircling a cushion-shaped crystal that gives a superb view onto the intricately skeletonised movement.
Finished in an elegant dark blue that contrasts beautifully with the rich rose gold of the case, the mechanism also matches the quick-change strap in blue alligator leather.
The white gold version of the Piaget Polo Skeleton features a dazzling, diamond-set bezel to add a touch of glamour after dark. The 56 stones seamlessly integrated around the dial have a weight of 1.59 carats and their brilliant-cut guarantees a pyrotechnic sparkle in any light. Again, the ultra-slim, skeletonised movement is finished in a deep blue colour to match the quick-change strap.
The Piaget Polo Skeleton High Jewellery’s white gold case and flange are set with no fewer than 148 brilliant-cut diamonds and 132 baguette-cuts, while the white gold, skeletonised 1200D1 movement carries a remarkable 292 brilliant- cut diamonds and 11 brilliant-cut sapphires.
Piaget is one of a mere handful of watchmakers capable of setting a movement with diamonds and stands in a class of its own when it comes to diamond-setting automatic and ultra-thin mechanisms. Indeed, the Maison proudly holds the record for creating the thinnest diamond-set skeleton movement ever seen.
The Piaget Polo Skeleton High Jewellery measures just 7.99mm thick and, for a finishing touch, a rose-cut diamond is set into the crown and the white gold clasp of the grey alligator leather strap is set with a further six baguette-cut diamonds.
And for those who desire the ultimate, Piaget will supply the watch on a bracelet fully paved with 184 baguette- cut diamonds and 1,258 brilliants with a combined weight of 15.6 carats.
Technical details
Model: Piaget Polo Skeleton Rose Gold, Reference G0A46009
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 6.5mm
Case material: 18K rose gold
Piaget manufacture self-winding blue skeleton movement (1200S1)
Slate grey coloured oscillating weight
Sapphire case-back
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 44hours
Self-interchangeable blue alligator leather strap with rose gold folding clasp
Model: Piaget Polo Skeleton White Gold, Reference G0A46010
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 6.5mm
Case material: 18K white gold
Bezel set with 56 brilliant-cut diamonds (1.59cts)
Piaget manufacture self-winding blue skeleton movement (1200S1)
Slate grey coloured oscillating weight
Sapphire case-back
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 44hours
Self-interchangeable blue alligator leather strap with white gold folding clasp
Model: Piaget Polo Skeleton High-Jewellery, Reference G0A46007
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 7.9mm
Case material: 18K white gold
Case set with 148 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.69ct) and 60 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 2.70cts)
Crown set with 1brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.05ct)
Flange set with 72 baguette-cut diamonds (approx.3.24cts)
Piaget manufacture self-winding skeleton movement (1200D1) set with 292 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.88ct) and 11 brilliant-cut sapphires (approx.0.17ct)
Slate grey coloured oscillating weight
Sapphire case-back
Functions: hours, minutes
Power reserve: 44hours
Dark grey alligator leather strap with white gold folding clasp set with 6 baguette-cut diamonds (approx.0.59ct)
Numbered series
Model: Piaget Polo Skeleton High-Jewellery, Reference G0A46006
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 7.9mm
Case material: 18K white gold
Case set with 148 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.69ct) and 60 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 2.70cts)
Crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.05ct)
Flange set with 72 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 3.24cts)
Piaget manufacture self-winding skeleton movement (1200D1) set with 292 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.0.88ct) and 11 brilliant-cut sapphires (approx.0.17ct)
18K white gold bracelet with folding clasp, set with 1258 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx.7.39cts) and 184 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 8.28cts)
Piaget announces a fully skeletonised version of its celebrated Piaget Polo, the groundbreaking luxury sports watch created in 1979.
In order to successfully develop the Polo Skeleton, Piaget’s designers and engineers had to consider the key aspects of the Piaget Polo that have made it instantly recognizable – notably its curved case surmounted by a round bezel, its cushion shaped dial opening and its slim profile.
But perfecting the Polo Skeleton required a case to be created that was a remarkable 30 percent thinner than existing versions, and an evolution of the Piaget 1200S self-winding skeleton movement powered by an off-centre micro rotor engraved with Piaget coat of arms.
The challenge was to maintain the bold and unmistakable look that gives the Piaget Polo its strong personality while simultaneously achieving an unprecedented combination of elegance, usability and comfort through the thinnest case ever seen on the model. This 42mm steel-cased sports watch houses Piaget’s 1200S1 self-winding, manufacture movement – entirely developed and produced in-house – which is a wafer-like 2.4mm thin.
Despite the intricate appearance of the pared-down components, the Polo Skeleton remains just as robust, reliable and practical as the other models, featuring 44 hours of power reserve and water resistance down to three atmospheres.
Additionally, the polished and satin-finished ‘H’ design integrated bracelet that has become synonymous with the Piaget Polo has also been revised in order to provide an interchangeable function. This enables it to be swapped effortlessly for the additional interchangeable leather strap supplied with each watch.
The new Piaget Polo Skeleton is available in two highly individual designs – the first with a movement in Piaget Blue PVD, the second in a slate gray finish. In each version, the famous Piaget Polo case has been reduced to a mere 6.5mm thick (almost 3mm slimmer) while the intricately skeletonised movement and even the hands themselves have been pared-down for the ultimate in transparency.
A clear sapphire crystal case back, meanwhile, allows the meticulously finished and highly detailed movement to be seen and appreciated from both sides of the watch.
Piaget is celebrating Chinese New Year and the Year of the Ox with a special edition of its ultra-thin Altiplano timepiece with a grand-feu cloisonné dial featuring an ox, crafted by the celebrated artist Anita Porchet. Continuing the celebrations, Piaget is also presenting a new Limelight Stella moon-phase watch and a beautiful selection of Possession watch and jewellery.
Piaget Altiplano Year of the Ox
The ox is praised in Chinese culture for its hard-working nature, its dependability, and its sheer strength, enabling farmers to get the most out of their land.
To honour this strong and dependable zodiac animal, Piaget has immortalised the ox on the dial of one of its most iconic timepieces – the Altiplano – using grand-feu cloisonné enamel.
The dial has been created by the famous master-enameller, Anita Porchet. This ultra-thin 38mm timepiece comes in an 18-karat white gold case adorned with 78 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.71 ct.) and is powered by the brand’s exceptional 430P hand-wound movement that measures a mere 2.1mm in thickness. It is paired with an elegant black leather strap that is fitted with an 18-karat white gold pin buckle.
Piaget Limelight Stella
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar, officially starting on February 12th, 2021, and running until February 22nd. Traditional dishes and desserts, firecrackers to ward away evil spirits, and the lantern festival are all part of this annual celebration that sees all family members returning to their hometown for the festivities.
The Limelight Stella timepiece, with its moon phase complication and starry night sky, comes in a 36mm 18-karat rose gold case that is dressed with 126 brilliant-cut diamonds on the bezel (approx. 0.65 ct.), Fourteen brilliant-cut diamonds also sparkle on the mother-of-pearl dial (approx. 0.05 ct.) that displays a large moon phase in a new red colour. Red is the colour associated with Chinese New Year thanks to its link to life, joy, wealth, and courage.
The timepiece is powered by Piaget’s 584P self-winding movement and indicates the hours, minutes, seconds, and phases of the moon. It is paired with a red alligator leather strap and an 18-karat rose gold pin buckle. The Limelight Stella will be exclusively available in China and Hong Kong as of February and the rest of the world from April.
Along with these extraordinary timepieces, Piaget is also offering a number of new creations from its Possession collection. Discover an 18-karat white gold timepiece with a mother-of-pearl dial, and a diamond-paved case featuring a turning ring that playfully spins. One Possession ring, two necklaces, and three different-sized bangles all in rose gold also join the festivities. All featuring sparkling diamonds, red carnelian cabochons, and Piaget’s signature turning elements, these Possession pieces bring a sense of joy and playfulness to the Chinese New Year.
Piaget unveils two Altiplano Blue limited-edition timepieces in 38mm, showcasing its love for ultra-thinness and the magic of the colour blue.
The colour of the new Piaget Altiplano dials is the colour of the sky on a clear, cloudless night above the village of La Côte-aux-Fées, which means “Fairy Mountain”, the home of Piaget since 1874. Those timepieces emit the most intense and deep shade of blue that is paired with slender rose gold hour markers and slim baton-shaped hands, creating dials of the utmost elegance.
There are two limited editions of 300 pieces, both of which are housed in 38mm rose gold cases, which are lovingly made in-house in Piaget’s workshop.
Piaget is one of the rare Maisons to make its own gold cases, combining both tradition and innovation in a pioneering way, which can be seen with these two limited editions that come in a pure rose gold version or adorned with 78 diamonds (approx. 0.71 cts.) around the bezel and feature the Piaget coat of arms delicately engraved on the caseback.
The legend of the Piaget Altiplano iconic collection started life in the 1950s with timepieces that were of unprecedented thinness and uncompromising purity. The collection has remained timeless ever since, evolving with the times, yet never losing its elegance or record-breaking slenderness.
The ultra-thinness of the Piaget Altiplano Blue limited editions is achieved thanks to the Maison’s manual-winding 430P calibre that measures a mere 2.1mm in thickness. This movement is renowned for its thinness but also its reliability and meticulous finishing. Developed, manufactured, and decorated by the Piaget Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie, it is a legitimate heir to the legendary 9P movement that allowed Piaget to chart a new course in ultra-thin watchmaking in 1957.
Technical details
Model: Piaget Altiplano, G0A45050
Diameter: 38 mm
Watch in 18K 5N rose gold
Blue dial with pink gold applied indexes
Piaget manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical movement (430P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Power reserve: approx. 43h
Number of jewels: 18
Number of Components: 131
Blue alligator strap with black shades and rose gold ardillon buckle
Limited edition of 300 pieces
Model: Piaget Altiplano, G0A45051
Diameter: 38 mm
Watch in 18K 5N rose gold
Bezel set with 78 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.71 ct)
Blue dial with pink gold applied indexes
Piaget manufacture ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical movement (430P)
Functions: hours and minutes
Power reserve: approx. 43h
Number of jewels: 18
Number of Components: 131
Blue alligator strap with black shades and rose gold ardillon buckle
Limited edition of 300 pieces
At the 2018 Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, Piaget unveiled the Altiplano Ultimate Concept – the thinnest mechanical watch in the world.
Measuring just 2mm thick, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept served as a stage for numerous Piaget innovations, including a case that formed part of the movement, a unique, integrated winding crown, an ultra-thin crystal and, more importantly, new constructions for the barrel and energy regulation. Thanks to this evolution, the power reserve of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept extended to more than 40 hours, a benchmark in the canon of ultra-thin watches.
Today, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept is no longer just an ambitious experiment in pushing the boundaries of horological micro-engineering, but a fully developed, tried and tested watch that is now available for watch lovers and collectors to buy, own and use.
The Altiplano Ultimate Concept was developed and produced entirely in-house by Piaget’s dedicated Research and Innovation division.
The team worked solely on the prototype for four years – during which time many of the established codes of watch making were re-invented – and spent a further two years perfecting the design and engineering in order to bring the watch to your wrist. To reach the goal of creating a watch just 2mm thick – a remarkable feat which established a new world record – the team had to abandon conventional thinking.
Classical design dictates a standard four-layers construction: bezel and crystal; dial, hands and movement encapsulated in a case and case back. Piaget, the master of thin watches since 1957, had already used the fusion concept in its 900P in 2014 (3.65mm) – the world’s thinnest mechanical watch at that time.
With such specific engineering, the traditional movement mainplate disappeared, the case back being used both as part of the case and the movement mainplate, directly carved from one single block of gold. In 2018, Piaget pushed the concept even further by launching the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic which, at just 4.3mm thick, became the world’s thinnest gold watch.
With the Altiplano Ultimate Concept, the only option was to go one step further. Piaget embarked on a journey of unprecedented miniaturisation that resulted in the filing of no fewer than five patents, the process beginning with the creation of a case for the watch into which the movement baseplate is directly machined.
Too thin to use gold, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept case had to be made from a new, cobalt based alloy that is highly resistant, 2.3 times stronger than gold and, therefore, much more difficult to machine.
Other parts were entirely re-engineered and re-sized, with wheels, for example, being reduced from a conventional 0.20mm thick to 0.12mm and the sapphire crystal, normally 1mm thick in a standard watch, being pared-down by 80 per cent to a scarcely believable 0.2mm.
The mainspring barrel (the source of power that drives the mechanism) is also of an entirely new design that has no cover or drum but is mounted on a single, ceramic ball-bearing within the frame of the watch and enables the fully-wound movement to run for up to 40 hours.
The crown, meanwhile, has been re-invented to take the form of a flat, telescopic system (with its own, specially-designed winding tool) that fits flush with the case band and in which the conventional sliding pinion clutch and crown wheel are substituted for a single, ‘infinite screw’.
Such a construction offers the great advantage of perfectly protecting the crown, and therefore the movement, from unwanted shock.
The dial’s off-centre position, meanwhile, meant that a conventional, straight winding stem could not be used – a problem Piaget solved by creating a patented ‘staggered’ stem. In order for the system to function perfectly, the conventional hour hand is replaced with a revolving indicator disc while the minute hand works in the usual way.
So incredibly thin is the Altiplano Ultimate Concept that a mere 0.12 mm of cobalt separates the movement from the wearer’s skin.
The degree of thinness of this watch also means that even the method of indicating the time had to be re-thought. Instead of having a dial and two hands placed on top of a bridge, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept features a dial that lies beneath it, thus providing protection from any contact with the strong but wafer-thin crystal should it be momentarily deformed in an impact. This innovative technical feature is a patent registered by Piaget in 2014 (for the launch of 900P caliber).
Although the Altiplano Ultimate Concept measures a mere 2mm thick, it contains a remarkable 167 individual parts, many of which have had to be produced to microscopically small dimensions in order for the goal of ultimate thinness to be met.
Nevertheless, Piaget’s strict parameters of accuracy, reliability and robustness all had to be upheld, as did the Maison’s reputation for producing exquisitely hand-decorated movements.
Clearly, the minuscule size of many components presented a challenge in this area – not least since the slightest error of judgement could result in the inadvertent destruction of a vital part. But Piaget’s artisans rose to the challenge, embellishing the movement with sunburst and satin-brushed finishes, chamfered and polished bridges and enhancing the appearance of the combined case/baseplate with a sophisticated PVD treatment.
And, in order that the quest for slimness and practicality should be maintained throughout the watch, a special alligator skin strap and a blue baltimor technical textile strap were developed. They are all ultra-thin, featuring a velvet calfskin lining and an ultra-strong Kevlar – secured, of course, by an ultra-thin cobalt pin buckle.
Bespoke finishes and unique features are often considered key to luxury, a fact that Piaget recognised more than 50 years ago when it introduced its innovative ‘Style Selector’ at its New York boutique in order to offer customers the opportunity to choose the shape of their watch case, the type of dial and bracelet and the extent of the gem setting.
The idea proved so popular that it was rolled-out to Piaget stores around the world – and it has been revived today by making the Altiplano Ultimate Concept extensively customisable to the requirements of individual owners. As a result, buyers may specify the colour of the bridge and dial, the finish of the hands and the main plate and select straps that match or contrast – a range of options that will allow the Altiplano Ultimate Concept to be created in more than 10,000 permutations, thus ensuring that few will be alike and most will be truly unique.
The aesthetic appeal of slim and elegant wrist watches has recently been re-discovered and more makers are returning them to their catalogues – but Piaget has consistently majored in the ultra-thin theme since the creation of the hand-wound Calibre 9P in 1957.
With a history dating back to its founding as a movement manufacturer in 1874, Piaget boasts almost unrivalled experience in creating and developing high-end mechanisms and has made ‘Altiplano’ a name that is all but a byword for the ultimate in thin watches.
When launched, the Calibre 9P’s thickness of 2mm (now matched by that of the complete Altiplano Ultimate Concept timepiece) made it one of the world’s thinnest mechanical movements of the era.
Since then, however, Piaget has established a string of records in the field, ranging from the 2.3mm Calibre 12P of 1960 (then the world’s thinnest, self-winding movement) to the creation of further record-breaking skeleton, diamond-set skeleton, date, automatic, manual-winding and manual winding chronograph watches, as well as – in 2017 – the Calibre 670P utra-thin flying tourbillon.
Diameter: 41 mm
Thickness: 2.0mm
Watch made from a cobalt -based high-tech alloy
Calibre and watch exterior merge as one
Rectangular-shaped crown recessed into the caseband
Monobloc bezel integrated into the frame
0.2mm thick crystal
Alligator leather strap, 1.5mm thin
Ultra-thin cobalt alloy pin buckle
Calibre: Piaget 900P-UC
Development time: 6 years
Five patents pending
Power reserve: approx. 40 hours
Frequency: 28,800 vph/ 4 Hz
Number of jewels: 13
Functions: Hours, Minutes offset at 12 o’clock
Finishing: black PVD-treated and satin-brushed baseplate and caseback, polished case
The new Piaget Limelight Gala was inspired by an iconic model created in 1973 when the famous Piaget Society was in full swing. Celebrities, artists, clients, and friends of the Maison would get together for the most fabulous parties, gathering stars such as Salvador Dali, Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Andy Warhol, Cary Grant and Sami Davis Jr. As vibrant today as it was in the 1970s, the Piaget Society continues to unite a creative, curious, and intelligent set of people who share a certain art de vivre.
Piaget Patrimony model 1973 – Inspiration for the new Limelight Gala Collection
Piaget’s Limelight Gala was inspired by the elegant spirit of the 1960s, with its sensual curves, cambered case and asymmetrical lugs that extend from each side of the case onto the bracelet. The modern interpretation of the Limelight Gala reproduces the same design with a perfectly integrated case and lugs that are combined with a swirl of exquisite gemstones, ornate dials, and sumptuous gold bracelets.
New editions for 2020
This year, Piaget is presenting new Limelight Gala timepieces in celebration of these iconic creations that dates back to more than half a century. Each piece follows Piaget’s four pillars of excellence: The Art of Movement, The Art of Gold, The Art of Colour and The Art of Light.
The Art of Gold
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (Ref. G0A45163)
Shimmering in the light, this new Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (Ref. G0A45163) celebrates the signature design of the Limelight Gala collection with a hand-engraved gold bracelet and dial that are highlighted by 20 large diamonds (approx. 1.46 cts) and 22 blue sapphires (approx. 4.01 cts) set in a subtle gradient of blue.
Piaget is one of the few remaining Maisons that has the savoir-faire to make hand-made gold bracelets. This rare traditional craft started in the 1960s and became hugely popular thanks to Piaget’s bold creations. Mainly inspired by nature, Piaget has used over one hundred different life-like motifs to craft its hand-made gold bracelets, such as leather design, ocean waves, frost, flowers, foliage, bark, snake scales and many more.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (Ref. G0A45163)
The white gold bracelet featured on this new timepiece is hand-engraved in the Palace Décor style, one of Piaget’s most iconic motifs, which requires eight hours of work.
The dial is also made of white gold and is engraved using the same Palace Décor technique. It takes two hours to complete the engraving on the dial and it is always carried out by the same engraver who decorates the bracelet to ensure a uniform design. To let the Décor shine through, the dial is covered in translucent blue enamel. It is oven-fired multiple times at a temperature over 800°C, giving this technique the name of “Grand Feu” Enamel.
Finding the perfect colour gemstones for this timepiece was also one of the most challenging operations. It involved sampling large quantities of gemstones to ensure the perfect colour match, a task made even more complex given the large progressive size of the stones and the high gem quality standards of the Maison. To magnify the brilliance of the stones, Piaget’s gem-setters have expertly set the gemstones by hand, using the Serti Descendu technique.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (G0A45363)
This timepiece is so unique that it is a numbered edition. There is also a similar version (Ref. G0A45363) with a mother-of-pearl dial and a dark-blue alligator strap, limited to 88 pieces.
For over 140 years, the Maison’s artisans have been creating high-jewellery masterpi/eces by combining precious metals with flawless gemstones and innovative design.
A new rose gold version, (Ref. G0A45161) also using the Serti Descendu technique to set the 57 diamonds (approx. 4.80 cts), is available with a burgundy-coloured strap and a delicate mother-of-pearl dial of exceptional quality. It is extremely white in colour, with beautiful reflections, which attests of its high quality.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Rose Gold (G0A45161)
Three new Haute-Joaillerie Limelight Gala timepieces join the collection this year with stunning oval dials paved with snow-set diamonds, and a captivating setting of marquise-cut gemstones on the bezel, lugs and bracelet.
The marquise cut is an important part of Piaget’s history. As legend has it, France’s King Louis XV asked to cut a diamond in honour of the smile of his beloved Marquise de Pompadour. The resulting diamond let the light shine in from the very centre of the gemstone, giving it a unique radiance. This unique cut became a signature for the Maison.
Piaget Limelight Gala High-Jewellery (G0A45171)
The three new High Jewellery timepieces come in a 28 by 23mm case. One model adorned with a fully-paved bracelet set with 364 brilliant- and marquise-cut diamonds (approx. 12.42 cts, Ref. G0A45170), a second one set with both diamonds and blue sapphires (Ref. G0A45171), and the third one set with 237 diamonds and fitted with an elegant blue satin strap (Ref. G0A45168).
The Art of Colour
Piaget Limelight Gala Aventurine: Ref. G0A45162/Ref. G0A45152/Ref. G0A45180
Three new aventurine glass models join the Limelight Gala collection, showcasing the brand’s love for the celestial sky above our heads. Each dial is crafted from aventurine glass.
Piaget Limelight Gala Aventurine Glass (G0A45162)
There are two Limelight Gala Aventurine Glass Dial models: a 32mm case (Ref. G0A45162) adorned with 63 diamonds (approx. 1.76 ct) and a smaller 26mm case version (Ref. G0A45152) with 57 diamonds (approx. 0.87 ct), both limited to 300 pieces each.
Piaget Limelight Gala Aventurine Glass (G0A45152)
Another model, the Limelight Gala Precious Aventurine Glass Dial (Ref. G0A45180), is set with 57 diamonds (approx. 4.80 cts) using the Serti Descendu technique and limited to 200 pieces.
Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Aventurine Glass (G0A45180)
Piaget Limelight Gala High Jewellery Black Opal (Ref. G0A45007)
This stunning one-of-a-kind high-jewellery creation (Ref. G0A45007) features a dial fitted with a rare and precious black opal. Black opals are fascinating as they reflect a myriad of bright colours when they catch the light, such as yellow, green, blue, orange and red. The colours depend on the structure of the stone, and also the angle and brightness of the light, frequently changing before our eyes.
Black opals are only found in Australia and Ethiopia, making them particularly rare. Australian black opals were first found in the 19th century, where Ethiopian stones were only discovered around 15 years ago. In the present case from Australia, Piaget kept this rare and extraordinary opal for five years and waited for the perfect creation to host it.
The Limelight Gala High Jewellery Black Opal highlights its black opal with the addition of 86 brilliant-cut blue sapphires (approx. 5.51 cts) and a colourful array of marquise-cut coloured gemstones that start with 58 sapphires (approx. 6.23 cts), first yellow followed with orange and 14 pink rubies (approx. 1.41 cts) in a progressive gradient of colours to create a jewel that celebrates the best of the Earth’s treasures.
Technical details
Collection: Piaget Limelight Gala
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (G0A45163)
– Diameter: 32 mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel set with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.46 cts) and a fade of 22 brilliant-cut blue sapphires (approx. 4.01 cts) with openwork technique
– 18K white gold dial engraved with Palace Décor and covered in blue enamel
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (690P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– 18K white gold bracelet engraved with Palace Décor and with integrated scale clasp
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Sapphire Gradient (G0A45363)
– Diameter: 32 mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel set with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.46 cts) and a fade o f 22 brilliant-cut blue sapphires (approx. 4.01 cts) with openwork technique
– White mother-of-pearl dial
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (690P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Dark blue shiny alligator strap with an 18K white gold ardillon buckle set with 15 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Rose Gold (G0A45161)
– Diameter: 32 mm
– Watch in 18K rose gold
– Bezel set with 42 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 4.74 cts) with openwork technique
– White mother-of-pearl dial
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (690P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Burgundy shiny alligator strap with an 18K rose gold ardillon buckle set with 15 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Precious Aventurine Glass (G0A45180)
– Diameter: 32 mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel set with 42 brilliant- cut diamonds (approx. 4.74 cts) with openwork technique
– Aventurine glass dial
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (690P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Dark blue shiny alligator strap with an 18K white gold ardillon buckle set with 15 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.06 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Aventurine Glass (G0A45162)
– Diameter: 32 mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel set with 62 brilliant- cut diamonds (approx. 1.75 cts)
– Aventurine glass dial
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (690P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Dark blue shiny alligator strap wit h an 18K white gold ardillon buckle set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx. 0.01 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala Aventurine Glass (G0A45152)
– Diameter: 26 mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel set with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.92 ct)
– Aventurine glass dial
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (59P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Dark blue shiny alligator strap wit h an 18K white gold ardillon buckle set with 1 brilliant- cut diamond (approx. 0.01 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala High-Jewellery (G0A45168)
– Diameter: 23x28mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel and lugs set with 32 marquise- cut diamonds (approx. 4.00 cts)
– Dial paved with 190 brilliant- cut diamonds (approx. 0.70 cts) using the snow-set technique
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (56P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
– Dark blue satin strap with ardillon buckle set with 15 brilliant- cut diamonds (approx .
0.06 ct)
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala High-Jewellery (G0A45170)
– Diameter: 23x28mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel and lugs set one row of 83 marquise-cut diamonds (approx. 6.40 cts) and one row of 91 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 5.28 cts)
– Dial paved with 190 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.72 cts) using the snow-set technique
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (56P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala High-Jewellery (G0A45171)
– Diameter: 23x28mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel and lugs set one row of marquise-cut diamonds and one row of brilliant-cut diamonds
– Dial paved with brilliant-cut diamonds using the snow-set technique
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (56P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
Model: Piaget Limelight Gala High-Jewellery Black Opale (G0A45007)
– Diameter: 23x28mm
– Watch in 18K white gold
– Bezel and lugs set with two rows of gem. The first one is set with 58 yellow to orange marquise- cut sapphires (approx. 6.23 cts) and 14 marquise-cut rubies (approx. 1.41 cts). The second row is set with 86 brilliant-cut sapphires (approx. 5.51 cts)
– Dial with black opal from Australia
– Piaget manufacture quartz movement (56P)
– Functions: hours and minutes
Piaget celebrates the Chinese New Year with an exclusive creation, a Piaget Altiplano watch that honours the Zodiac sign of the Rat.
To honour this extraordinary and ambitious Zodiac animal, Piaget immortalized it on one of its most iconic watch’s dial: The Piaget Altiplano. A white gold case holds the 430P ultra‐thin hand‐wound Piaget movement, which is only 2.1 mm thick. Featuring a diamond set bezel, its Grand Feu cloisonné enamel dial pictures two white rats.
Despite working within the constraints of a watch’s dial, Anita Porchet, a widely recognized enamel master, has perfected this art of excellence in such a way that she is able to play with light and shades. She created the most delicate tones of grey to emphasize the refined motif and give life to the drawing, inspired by the Zodiac sign of the year.
Along with this unique watch, Piaget offers the carnelian Possession collection to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Its turning bands, and vibrant red colours attract positive energy and bring success. The red carnelian rose gold pendant with half‐sphere paved is available for those who love the audacious, fiery tones of this gem.
The Maison also presents a medium rose gold bangle paved with diamonds on the two sides of the bracelet and an open ring, both with carnelian cabochons and diamond set turning bands.
Created In partnership between Bucherer and Piaget, this rose gold watch for women was launched on September 9, 2019. A new member of the Exclusive Bucherer Blue Collection, the rose-gold Piaget Possession Bucherer BLUE with blue alligator-leather strap is an inspirational luxury watch for the discerning woman.
The Bucherer BLUE collection includes an exclusive selection of finest Swiss timepieces – available exclusively from Bucherer. For the past three years, Bucherer has been reinterpreting iconic timepieces.
The rose-gold Piaget Possession Bucherer BLUE represents the third partnership between the two brands. Bucherer’s close partnership with Piaget was first established back in 1979.
This rose-gold watch has a 34mm diameter case that houses an in-house quartz movement. This dazzling ladies timepiece features a rotating rose-gold bezel, lavishly set with 45 diamonds, and a single gorgeous sapphire.
Its mother-of-pearl dial boasts 11 blue sapphire hour markers. You can discover Piaget name at 3 o’clock instead of sapphire marker. Finally, the vibrant blue of the alligator-leather strap provides a bold, powerful contrast.
The rose-gold Piaget Possession Bucherer BLUE is available exclusively from Bucherer.
Technicaldetails
Piaget 56P in-house quartz movement; case in rose gold: 34 mm, mother-of-pearl dial set with 11 blue sapphires; case set with 45 diamonds and one blue sapphire; interchangeable blue and white alligator-leather straps; total carat weight: 45 diamonds at ca. 1.409 ct., 12 sapphires at ca. 0.177 ct.
Piaget has announced Shiva Safai as new Friend of the brand. Shiva Safai was born in Iran and raised in Norway. She moved to Los Angeles where she is now based, at the age of 19. Just two years later Shiva founded her first company, which she ran for nearly a decade.
With her classic elegant style, Shiva has become popular as a style icon and has graced several international magazine covers. She has hosted LA Fashion Week and has made guest appearances in several US television shows. In 2016 Harper’s Bazaar Arabia recognized Shiva as one of their best- dressed, securing her reputation as an International Style Icon. In 2018, Forbes US reported “this Instagram Influencer is building a lifestyle brand through beauty and fashion”.
Like for Piaget, philanthropy is important to Shiva and she supports organizations that support women’s and children’s health and education. Piaget looks forward to supporting Shiva in her charitable projects.
“We are so happy to welcome Shiva to the Piaget family as a Friend of the Brand. Her timeless personal style perfectly expresses the essence of Piaget’s creations. Moreover, Shiva exemplifies today’s Piaget woman who is classic and elegant, yet bold, stylish and confident!” explains Chabi Nouri, CEO of Piaget.
Together with this announcement, Piaget is also delighted to share behind-the-scenes footage and two images of Shiva Safai wearing Piaget’s latest Sunlight collection. Shot in New York during the spring, the content showcases Shiva in various moments during a Piaget photoshoot.
“I am thrilled to join the Piaget Society! Piaget is a brand whose captivating playfulness I have long admired. Its elegant designs elevate any outfit and should be the finishing touch for every stylish woman!” shares the new Piaget Friend of the Brand, Shiva Safai.
The Swiss luxury watch and jewllery brand Piaget has announced world-renowned pastry chef, Cédric Grolet as the Maison’s newest International Brand Ambassador.
Born in Firminy, France, Cédric Grolet began his journey as a pâtissier at the young age of 13. His grandparents owned a restaurant in the Rhone-Alpes region of eastern France, where he spent most of his youth and where his early childhood memories include those of his mother giving him fresh-picked, colourful and naturally sweet fruit as a healthy snack. Today, Chef Grolet’s sculpted fruits have become his signature. While he is dedicated to paying homage to these wonders of nature as much as he is to giving them an eye-catching presentation, he ensures that the taste of the fruits shine through in a natural and pure way.
Cédric Grolet has been hotel Le Meurice’s Pastry Chef since 2012 and is the undisputed master of his art. After gaining his professional certification in pastry, chocolate and ice cream work in 2002, Cédric Grolet achieved an additional qualification in 2004, followed by a Brevet Technique des Métiers – the highest possible qualification in his field – at the famous École Nationale Supérieure de la Pâtisserie.
When he arrived in Paris in 2006, Chef Grolet joined the team at Fauchon, where he remained for five years. He joined Le Meurice in 2011 as sous pastry chef, rapidly rising to head pastry chef, after having spent years refining his skills.
Included in his list of achievements are ‘Best Pastry Chef of the Year’ (Le Chef, 2015), ‘Best Pastry Chef’ (Gault & Millau, 2017) and ‘Best Pastry Chef in the World 2018’ (The World’s 50 Best Restaurants). In November 2018, Vanity Fair France named Chef Grolet as one of the 50 most influential French people in the world in 2018. In 2019, Cédric Grolet received the Grand Vermeille medal from the city of Paris and is the recipient of the gold talent of the Centre du Luxe et de la Création.
Known for his stunning and delicious fruit-like desserts, Chef Grolet continues to look to nature for inspiration. He often says that he’s only satisfied when his creations are better than the fruits that inspired them. He is also in love with Paris – a city that moves him and is the muse for all his classical pastry creations. Outside of the culinary world, Cédric Grolet is passionate about sports cars and watches, as they require like his pastry creations, a demanding expertise.
For the 8th edition of the Only Watch charity auction, Piaget has created a unique one of a kind timepiece designed for the event which will be featured in the charity auction on November 9, 2019.
The Maison presents a unique Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic in rose gold in a never-seen-before colour combination of blue, the Only Watch colour of the year.
The Maison’s designers, developers, engineers, and watchmakers worked together for three years on each stage of development, production and adjustment to give life to this ultra-thin masterpiece – for which each technical choice has an aesthetic impact and vice versa.
The Altiplano Ultimate Automatic 910P movement and case form an indivisible whole. As some of the components are barely thicker than 0.15mm, the whole watch is 4.30mm thick, which makes it one of the thinnest mechanical watches in the world. Driven by the same concern for space optimization, the oscillating weight in 22K gold with blue PVD coating is positioned on the movement periphery so as to be incorporated into its thickness and thus further contribute to the overall slimness.
The hour and minute display is also integrated within the caliber, featuring a unique blue dial colour that is dear to Piaget and part of Piaget’s heritage.
Engraved on the case-back, the “Only Watch Unique Piece 2019” inscription pays tribute to the exclusivity of the watch specifically designed for the charity event.
Diameter: 41 mm
One of the world’s thinnest mechanical automatic watches
18K rose gold watch
A merger between the calibre and the exterior elements; mechanical automatic Calibre 910P with blue PVD-coated 22K gold peripheral oscillating weight
18K rose gold pin buckle
Blue alligator leather strap
Development time: three years
Power reserve: approximately 50 hours
Frequency: 21,600 vph / 3 Hz
Thickness: 4.30 mm (case + movement)
Number of jewels 30
Functions: hours and minutes offset at 10 o’clock
Number of components: 238 (case + movement)
Finishing operations: circular satin-brushed case-back, sunburst satin-brushed bridges, chamfered bridges, sunburst or circular satin-finished wheels, blue-coated screws, dedicated index-assembly with “P” as the Piaget signature
Piaget celebrates the free-spirited woman with its new collection of Piaget Possession watches that feature enticing warm tones, magnificent levels of gem-setting and a spectacular new cuff of hand-worked gold.
In 2018, the captivating Piaget Possession watches erupted in a profusion of colour, taking on a full palette of interchangeable coloured straps and bracelets as well as exceptional ornamental stone dials of lapis lazuli, carnelian, turquoise and malachite.
This year, the collection is enriched with temptingly vivid shades of cherry. A quartet of Piaget Possession watches are presented with deep cherry-pink straps of alligator leather. Two of them come with matching pink dials with diamond hour markers.
These have 18k pink-gold cases and diamond-set rotating bezels, emphasising the fire and sparkle of the strong feminine spirit. The pink-gold models come in a diameter of 29mm and another of 34mm.
The other two Piaget Possession watches in this quartet are in white gold, with fully paved cases and dials. These epitomise the sheer brilliance of the Maison’s jewellery prowess and shining commitment towards using the very best stones available.
A high-jewellery model in white gold further showcases the rarefied extremes of this in-house savoir-faire, featuring a fully paved dial and case as well as a diamond-paved bracelet. The diamond river bracelet — so called because of the glittering fluidity of the individually hand-set stones — is a particular speciality of Piaget. Despite the number of diamonds and intricacy of the underlying white-gold structure, the bracelet remains astonishingly supple, clinging to the wrist like a second skin.
One final model in the 2019 Possession is comparatively restrained in its use of diamonds, but exerts maximum impact with its expert application of gold-working, a skill for which Piaget is historically famed.
A full cuff of hand-worked textured Milanese mesh is paired with an iridescent mother-of-pearl dial that complements the effervescent shimmer of the textured mesh. Both the case and the iconic rotating bezel are fully set with diamonds, forming the perfect accompaniment to the exquisite gold-worked cuff.
Technical details
Possession watch – 29 mm, G0A44086
Case in 18K pink gold set with 42 brilliant-cut diamonds ( approx. 1.03 cts)
Dark pink dial set with 11 diamond dots indexes (approx. 0.07 ct)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Dark pink self-interchangeable alligator strap set with a 18K pink gold plated ardillon buckle – 2nd alligator strap offered
Possession watch – 34 mm, G0A44096
Case in 18K pink gold set with 46 brilliant-cut diamonds ( approx. 1.46 cts)
Dark pink dial set with 11 diamond dots indexes (approx. 0.09 ct)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Dark pink self-interchangeable alligator strap set with a 18K pink gold plated ardillon buckle – 2nd alligator strap offered
Possession watch – 29 mm, G0A44098
Case in 18K white gold set with 162 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.55 cts)
Paved dial set with 142 diamonds (approx. 0.75 ct)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Dark pink self-interchangeable alligator strap set with a stainless steel ardillon buckle – 2nd alligator strap offered
Possession watch – 34 mm, G0A44099
Case in 18K white gold set with 181 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 2.11 cts)
Paved dial set with 239 diamonds (approx. 1.22 cts)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Dark pink self-interchangeable alligator strap set with a stainless steel ardillon buckle – 2nd alligator strap offered
Possession watch – 29 mm, G0A44083
Case in 18K white gold set with 162 brilliant-cut diamonds ( approx. 1.55 cts)
Paved dial set with 142 diamonds (approx. 0.75 ct)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Diamond paved bracelet set with 317 brillant-cut diamonds (approx. 8.87 cts)
Possession cuff watch – 29 mm, G0A44069
Case in 18K pink gold set with 162 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.55 cts)
Mother-of-pearl dial set with 11 diamond-dots indexes (approx. 0.07 ct)
Piaget Manufacture 56P Quartz movement
Textured 18K gold Milanese mesh
Boutique exclusivity
At the 2019 Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva, Piaget presented three new Altiplano timepieces, each featuring iconic areas of Piaget expertise such as Ultra-thin watchmaking, exceptional gem-setting and an expanded focus on hard stones.
The 36mm Altiplano High Jewellery watch comes set with baguette diamonds on the bezel and dial, and a sunray-brushed dial in Piaget Blue, limited to an edition of 88 pieces.
In this 36mm Altiplano High Jewellery watch, the baguette diamonds frame the watch and mark out the dial quarters, allowing the intense dial hue to truly shine. This particular shade of deep blue, somewhere between cobalt and midnight blue, has defined the maison through the decades and most recently anchored the anniversary collection of Piaget Altiplano watches shown at the 2017 SIHH.
Like the sky itself, the dial reveals different aspects of appearance under varying levels of illumination, the sunray finish creating a hypnotic play of light and shade that is almost alive in its brilliance.
The celestial influence becomes even more pronounced in the 41mm white-gold Altiplano Tourbillon, distinguished by a blue meteorite dial encircled by diamonds. Hours and minutes are indicated via the hallmark Piaget Altiplano baton hands and indices at eight o’clock, while the whirling dance of the flying tourbillon at the two o’clock position recalls the rotation of planetary bodies in a dark blue firmament.
The distinctive lines on the surface of the meteorite are known as Widmanstätten patterns, typical of the crystallised nickel-iron structures found within iron meteorites. This type of meteorite is speculated to date from the very beginnings of the cataclysmic events that result in the creation of solar systems. Just as diamonds are crystallised records of conditions deep within the earth, meteorites are crystallised records of the birth of galaxies.
The 41mm Altiplano Tourbillon, limited to 28 pieces, represents the height of Piaget’s prowess in gem-setting, decorative stone dials and ultra-thin high watchmaking.
Completing the trio of Piaget’s SIHH creations is, fittingly, a watch that embodies the purest expressions of essential Piaget — the pink-gold 40mm Altiplano with grey meteorite dial and a simple distillation of time told in hours and minutes, with a date window at three o’clock.
The combination of pink gold with the grey meteorite and pink-gold indices is a step removed from the high contrast beauty of the 36mm and 41mm models, but more fully showcases the subtle nuances of the meteorite as a material. The 40mm Piaget Altiplano in pink gold with grey meteorite dial is limited to an edition of 300 pieces.
The history of Piaget is inextricably linked with the history of innovative fine watchmaking, particularly in the area of ultra-thin movements. Milestone records include the hand-wound calibre 9P of 1957, the self-winding caliber 12P of 1960, and more recently the 1200P of 2010 and the extraordinary 2mm-thick Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept presented at the 2018 SIHH.
Ultra-thin watchmaking is so specific in its scope and the technical skills required that it is frequently compared to complicated watchmaking in terms of the level of challenge involved. In this way, it is similar to skeletonising, a technique that Piaget has also shown considerable mastery in via the 1200S ultra-thin open-worked movement.
At manufacture Piaget, ultra-thin watchmaking is not seen only as an end goal in and of itself. It is a highly developed expertise that is parlayed into some of the most aesthetically adventurous and artisanal timepieces created in the history of fine watchmaking.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Piaget was acclaimed for its bold use of hard stones in the decorative dials that adorned its stylish designs. This was enabled by the manufacture’s considerable savoir-faire in ultra-thin watchmaking, since hard stone dials as a rule are significantly thicker than conventional metal dials. In keeping with that period’s watch design conventions of slimness and elegance, watches with hard stone dials were paired only with thin movements in order to keep the final thinness of the watch as low as possible.
The restraint and severely strict needs of ultra-thin watchmaking, as thoroughly conquered by Piaget, is what allowed the Manufacture to create timepieces of great aesthetic exuberance in the 1960s and 1970s, pieces which are still highly sought after today in the vintage watch scene. The movements that inhabit the SIHH models, the hand-wound 430P, the hand-wound tourbillon calibre 670P and the self-winding 1203P, are examples of this, demonstrating how at Piaget, technical fine watchmaking, exceptional artistic crafts and outstanding design are combined to delineate a Maison like no other.
Technical details
PIAGET ALTIPLANO, G0A44051
Diameter : 40mm
18K pink gold watch
Grey meteorite dial with pink gold indexes
Piaget ultra-thin self-winding caliber 1203P
3mm thick, 29.9mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, date at 3 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 44 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 209
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, “P” fixed to the regulator-assembly as Piaget signature, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Grey alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold pin buckle
Limited edition of 300 pieces
PIAGET ALTIPLANO, G0A44050
Diameter: 40mm
18K pink gold watch
Gold-colored meteorite dial with grey indexes
Piaget ultra-thin self-winding caliber 1203P
3mm thick, 29.9mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, date at 3 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 44 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 209
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, “P” fixed to the regulator-assembly as Piaget signature, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Grey alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold pin buckle
Limited edition of 50 pieces
PIAGET ALTIPLANO, G0A44052
Diameter: 40mm
18K pink gold watch
Bezel set with 72 diamonds (approx. 1,00 ct)
Blue meteorite dial with pink gold indexes
Piaget ultra-thin self-winding caliber 1203P
3mm thick, 29.9mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, date at 3 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 44 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 209
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, “P” fixed to the regulator assembly as Piaget signature, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold pin buckle
Limited edition of 300 pieces
PIAGET ALTIPLANO TOURBILLON, G0A44053
Diameter: 41mm
18K pink gold watch
Bezel set with 85 diamonds (approx. 1,59 ct)
Blue meteorite dial
Piaget ultra-thin hand-wound tourbillon 670P
4.6mm thick, 30.6mm of diameter
Functions: Off-centered hours and minutes at 8 o’clock, flying tourbillon at 2 o’clock
Power Reserve: approximately 48 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 23
Number of Components: 157
Off-centered hours and minutes and tourbillon carriage forming a subtle lucky 8, a Piaget signature
Swiss patented stem setting system
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, black screws, hand-beveled flying tourbillon cage
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold pin buckle
Limited numbered edition, N°01/28
PIAGET ALTIPLANO, G0A44075
Diameter: 41mm
18K white gold watch with baguette-set bezel (approx. 2,51 cts)
Piaget Blue dial, with gold indexes and baguette-diamond indexes at 3,6,9,12 o’clock (approx. 0,14 ct)
Piaget ultra-thin self-winding caliber 1200P
2.35mm thick, 29.9mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes
Power Reserve: approximately 44 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 180
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, “P” fixed to the regulator assembly as Piaget signature
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K white gold pin buckle
Limited numbered edition, N°01/88
PIAGET ALTIPLANO, G0A44076
Diameter: 36mm
18K white gold watch with baguette-set bezel (approx. 1,65 cts)
Piaget Blue dial, with gold indexes and baguette-diamond indexes at 3,6,9,12 o’clock (approx. 0,06 ct)
Piaget ultra-thin hand-wound caliber 430P
2.1mm thick, 20.5mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes
Power Reserve: approximately 43 hours
Frequency: 21’600 vph / 3 Hz
Number of Jewels 18
Number of Components: 131
Circular-grained plate, beveled bridges with circular côtes de Genève, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, “P” fixed to the regulator assembly as Piaget signature
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K white gold pin buckle
Limited numbered edition, N°01/88
Launched in 1979, the Polo line, which represented the sporty and casual side of Piaget Manufacture, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. In 2019, Piaget adds some new models that capture the essence of the Maison in 2019, injecting the collection’s recurring vitality with a pop of colour and a dash of sparkle.
Throughout the 40 years since the Piaget Polo was introduced, the one feature that has continuously defined the collection is its relevance to the modern era. It became an instant style icon upon its launch in 1979, with its dauphine hands and a dial distinctively marked with horizontal godroons that were replicated all along the integrated bracelet.
In 2016, the Piaget Polo introduced a refreshed look that updated its hallmark design for the new millennium. The slender proportions remained, but with a larger case size and a bezel that blended oblong and round shapes for an exuberant celebration of Piaget’s signature aesthetic. The classic faceted dauphine hands embraced a friendlier approach, trading sharp angles for softer curves. The bold horizontal dial and case godroons transitioned into dial guillochage that offered subtle texture without overpowering it.
Following the popularity of the steel launch models and the acclaimed 2018 introduction of gold to the new Piaget Polo, the 2019 models confidently move the collection into other areas of the Maison’s expertise — the use of colour and gem-setting.
The steel 42mm Piaget Polo comes with a green dial that changes in tone and intensity depending on the angle of light that hits the guilloché surface. A dark green alligator leather strap completes the tone-on-tone look. This model is limited to 500 pieces.
A second 42mm model, this time in 18k red gold, comes in two diamond-set versions. The first features a simple halo of brilliant-cut diamonds on the emblematic bezel, whilst the second is unrestrainedly spirited with a fully paved dial and bezel.
These models come with two alligator straps for maximum versatility; a sober blue strap sets off the sparkle of diamonds while a deep garnet strap emphasises the warmth of the red-gold case.
The new Piaget Polo models of 2019 are driven by the automatic calibre 1110P of Manufacture Piaget, ensuring a high level of timekeeping performance designed for modern times.
Technical details
Model: PIAGET POLO, G0A44010
Diameter: 42mm
18K red gold watch set with 56 brilliant-cut diamonds (1.53 ct)
White dial, pink gold indexes with superluminova
Piaget self-winding caliber 1110P
4mm thick, 25.58mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, central seconds, date at 6 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours
Frequency: 28’800 vph / 4 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 280
Circular côtes de Genève, circular-grained plate, beveled bridges, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold folding buckle, delivered with a second brown mahogany alligator strap
Model: PIAGET POLO, G0A44011
Diameter: 42mm
18K red gold watch set with 56 brilliant-cut diamonds (1.53 ct)
18K white dial set with 496 brilliant-cut diamonds (1.86 cts), pink gold indexes
Piaget self-winding caliber 1110P
4mm thick, 25.58mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, central seconds, date at 6 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours
Frequency: 28’800 vph / 4 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 280
Circular côtes de Genève, circular-grained plate, beveled bridges, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Blue alligator leather strap with 18K pink gold folding buckle, delivered with a second brown mahogany alligator strap
Model: PIAGET POLO, G0A44001
Diameter: 42mm
Stainless steel
Green dial, silvered index with superluminova
Piaget self-winding caliber 1110P
4mm thick, 25.58mm of diameter
Functions: Hours and minutes, central seconds, date at 6 o’clock
Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours
Frequency: 28’800 vph / 4 Hz
Number of Jewels 25
Number of Components: 280
Circular côtes de Genève, circular-grained plate, beveled bridges, sunburst-brushed wheels, blue screws, engraved coat of arms on the slate grey colored gold oscillating weight
Green alligator leather strap with folding buckle
Watches of timeless elegance, mechanical movements that embody over half a century of ultra-thin watch models that have produced a long list of records for thinness: Piaget has certainly made an enduring impression on the watchmaking world since the company was founded back in 1874. This virtuosity reflects an unrelenting search for the very highest standards of excellence, combining deep rooted expertise, a constant urge to experiment and respect for the traditional watchmaking skills. This is the very essence of the Piaget signature.
Piaget’s legitimacy and expertise as a company are founded on 140 years of innovation and excellence. Faithful to its motto “Always do better than necessary”, Piaget combines technical precision and boundless creativity to create exceptional timepieces made entirely out of gold. Thanks to its two fully-integrated Manufactures in the localities of Plan-les-Ouates and La Côte-aux-Fées, Piaget combines the worlds of watchmaking and fine jewellery with over 40 specialised professions being practiced side by side. This ingenious fusion has enabled the brand to develop its innovation and to continue on its trail-blazing trajectory, constantly seeking to achieve the impossible.
The Birth of a Watchmaking Pioneer
Piaget’s pioneering spirit first made its appearance in 1874, in a little village in the heart of the Swiss Jura mountains, a region that since the mid-19th century had become a centre of micro-mechanical craftsmanship specialising in the assembly of watch movements. In a workshop set up inside his family home in La Côte-aux-Fées, 19-year-old Georges Édouard Piaget founded the company that still bears his name today. Dedicated to the production of high-precision watch movements, Piaget supplied its high-quality mechanisms to the most prestigious brands in watchmaking.
A dedicated work ethic and a penchant for risk quickly enabled Piaget’s reputation to spread far beyond the company’s native Jura. As the firm grew from one generation to the next, the desire to produce watches under its own brand name intensified. Piaget finally registered its own trademark in 1943. Since then, the brand has produced and given its name to its own luxury watches, the start of a journey that was to transform the little family firm into one of the most famous watchmakers and jewellers in the world.
The brand grew quickly, first under the guidance of the founder’s grandsons, Gérald and Valentin Piaget, and later under that of Yves G. Piaget. The explosion of orders and the growth in production capacity was accompanied by a geographical expansion well beyond the frontiers of Switzerland. In its new Manufacture constructed in 1945 in La Côte-aux-Fées, Piaget devoted itself to the creation of ultra-thin watch movements, an endeavour that was to become a defining feature of the Piaget identity.
The year 1959 was marked by two important stages in the company’s expansion: the opening of the first Piaget boutique in Geneva, and the creation of the Piaget Watch Corporation in New York with a view to introducing the brand into the United States. Year after year and collection after collection, the Piaget style continued to develop, and the scope of the firm’s technical achievements grew and grew. When the Piaget family joined forces with the Richemont Group in 1988, the brand was able to continue its expansion at a rapid pace, investing not only in new innovations but also in the buying back of vintage Piaget timepieces from collectors so as to form the Private Collection, thus forming a veritable history of the brand and of its influence on contemporary watchmaking and jewellery.
The undisputed master of the ultra-thin watch
With its unrivalled technical expertise, Piaget became the acknowledged master of the production of ultra-thin watches and thus came to mark the history of watchmaking. The creation of two movements, in particular, revolutionised the watch market. In 1957, the Manufacture presented the famous 9P hand-wound ultra-thin movement, which is only 2 mm thick. It was in the same year that Piaget decided to develop products made exclusively from precious metals (gold and platinum).
In 1960, Piaget unveiled the Calibre 12P, which with its thickness of only 2.3 mm was one of the thinnest self-winding movements in the world. This achievement attracted the attention of numerous connoisseurs and collectors. It really is appropriate here to talk in terms of historical primacy. Out of a total of 37 movements developed by Piaget, 25 are ultra-thin calibres, including 14 record-holders for thinness.
This expertise in ultra-thin movements gave rise to calibres with complications and presented Piaget’s designers with all sorts of creative possibilities, such as ultra-thin profiles, generously-sized dials, coin watches and different-shaped cases. Above all, however, it confirmed the brand’s uncontested status as a Maison of Haute Horlogerie.
As a Manufacture dedicated to the ultra-thin watch, Piaget continues to defy the limits of the impossible, for both hand-wound and self-winding movements. The brand is intransigent in its requirements for each timepiece, making no concessions in terms of the elegance of their designs, their technical reliability or their durability. In the universe of infinitely tiny dimensions, all watch components must be ingeniously designed and crafted, leaving space only for absolutely essential parts. Miniaturisation involves additional technical difficulties for which Piaget’s craftsmen find creative solutions at each stage of design, production, adjustment and finishing.
An example of such virtuosity is the Piaget Emperador Coussin Automatic Minute Repeater watch, which won a double record for thinness in its category in 2013: only 4.8 mm for the new Calibre 1290P, despite its 407 components, and 9.4 mm for the whole case. This veritable tour de force is the culmination of an extreme technical thinness within the ultra-thin category, of a mastery of the miniaturisation of the components, and of an exceptional design of the most absolute acoustic purity. The calibre 1290P in fact provides a sound of impressive intensity: no fewer than 64 decibels provide an amazing clarity.
An established icon of the brand, the Piaget Altiplano 38 mm 900P was the result of a specific design concept. It merged movement and case to become the thinnest mechanical watch in the world, with a thickness of only 3.65 mm. This marvel of thinness was the product of three years of development and delicate adjustment. The jewellery version of the Piaget Altiplano 38 mm 900P, totalling 4.71 carats, was also the subject of a new record. With a thickness of only 5.65 mm, it became the thinnest Haute Joaillerie watch in the world, perfectly combining gold and diamonds in the grand Piaget tradition, while at the same time respecting the required limitations of profile and thinness.
The rise of the watchmaker-jeweller
At the time of their creation, the first two ultra-thin calibres, 9P and 12P, offered a new aesthetic freedom and provided the opportunity to give full expression to an incomparable spirit of creative fantasy. Piaget watches became jewels in their own right, extravagant items set with diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Having become the uncontested jeweller of the watch movement and the alchemist of the finest gems and ultra-thin calibres, the characteristic Piaget look was now firmly established. In 1961 the brand acquired specialised workshops so as to control its production processes as closely as possible. In the early 1960s, watches with dials made of hard or semi-precious stones began to take their place in the collection. Whether onyx, turquoise, jade or lapis lazuli, each stone brought with it an explosion of colour.
Devoting as much attention to the aesthetic transformation of its timepieces as to their technical characteristics, Piaget cultivated all its savoir-faire in watch decoration to create authentic pieces of jewellery in a refined style. Enamelling, miniature painting, guillochage, engraving and gem-setting were among the many techniques to which the Manufacture paid close attention. Every time a new complication was created, watchmakers and jewellers worked together to design a corresponding exceptional version set with gems, taking on a new artistic challenge.
Since the 1960s, Piaget has created its own gold bracelets using the techniques of traditional craftsmanship. These bracelets have become models of their kind, the perfect suppleness and absolute comfort of which are equalled only by the sophistication and complex adjustments of their various links. Each stage of design, production and hand finishing is perfectly planned and undertaken within the Manufacture. To achieve this, Piaget has maintained its own specialised workshops and has preserved its own invaluable expertise over the generations.
Although its first vocation was as a brand dedicated to watchmaking, since the 1960s its craftsmen have produced exclusive jewels inspired by audacious watch creations so as to satisfy clients that has become ever more demanding. Now a jeweller in its own right, Piaget creates jewels that are either unique pieces or produced in limited editions, and which are both experimental yet respectful of tradition. The brand thus follows to the letter an essential rule established in 1957: the exclusive use of gold or platinum both for its watches and jewellery.
At the apex of fashion and contemporary culture, Piaget’s Haute Joaillerie creations have taken their place on the international stage, much sought after by countless stars and famous personalities. As a renowned House of Haute Joaillerie, the Manufacture Piaget has the means to produce the most extravagant pieces of jewellery imaginable, authentic works of unbridled luxury for the pleasure of today’s jet set. Amid explosions of colour, audacious designs and contemporary creative marvels, in the universe of Piaget the impossible becomes possible.
In 1990 Piaget launched an iconic jewellery collection with its Possession line, representing the power of love depicted as forging a link between two elements. In this way, for instance, two gold rings are eternally linked and turn freely around each other to evoke perpetual motion.
In the year 2000, Piaget launched its Limelight creative collections, inspired by the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age, with generous dimensions, purity of form and surfaces set with diamonds, recalling the stage lighting with which its name is associated. Many offshoots of this iconic collection have succeeded in creating a new element of surprise. The Limelight Paris-New York collection, for example, is inspired by the dazzling architecture and haute couture of those two great metropolises. The Limelight Precious Couture collection is also inspired by the world of fashion, and specifically lace, corset-strings and the decorative details found on many garments.
Another source of expression has regularly inspired Piaget’s designers. The rose, that splendid, sensual flower, has always enchanted Yves Piaget in his designs. As the brand’s unrivalled muse, the rose has been a feature throughout Piaget’s history in jewellery and watch creations that are both subtly fragile and dazzlingly audacious. As the ultimate tribute to this unconditional passion, the prize-winning variety at the International Competition for New Roses in 1982 was christened the“Yves Piaget rose”.
The “Piaget Rose” collection was launched in 2012 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the creation of this rose. With its petals of pink or white gold, some set with diamonds and others not, its whole sculpted roses and openwork roses, and its lace-like patterns, this collection expresses all the beauty of the rose.
Piaget’s love of roses was also shared by Joséphine de Beauharnais, the first wife of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. She grew an extraordinary collection of 250 rare species of roses on her estate at Malmaison, just outside Paris. Inspired by this common passion, the Piaget Rose Passion collection of Haute Joaillerie is composed of 100 pieces entirely created in Piaget’s jewellery workshops. This vast collection of combs, tiaras, cuff watches and secret watches so dear to the brand, epitomises the boldness, femininity and modernity of a woman with an extraordinary life.
As a tribute to the delightful, delicate rose that has played such an important role in its history, Piaget has paid tribute to the talent of its creators since 1979. Yves Piaget has also designed a trophy – a life-size rose in 18-carat gold – crafted in the Manufacture’s workshops and awarded to the winners of the rose competitions in which the Yves Piaget Rose participates.
In 2014, Piaget celebrated the 140th anniversary of its founding by presenting a special collection entitled “Extremely Piaget” at the 27th Biennale des Antiquaires show in Paris. The collection, consisting of 88 pieces of jewellery and 37 watches, showcased a key period in the creative history of Piaget, the 1960s and 1970s, enhanced by the most precious materials: diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, hard stones and gold. The audacious designs played with asymmetry, fluidity and stylisation. In the case of certain pieces, the distinction between jewel and watch completely disappeared. Colour was all-important, particularly with regard to the numerous hard stone dials, a Piaget signature feature.
Constantly reinventing themes that are close to Piaget’s heart, its designers take their inspiration from Hollywood glamour, garden magic or the party universe. Thanks to the heritage of its many years of experience in the exclusive universe of high jewellery, the Geneva-based brand develops themes of contemporary interest, offering a vast collection of jewellery and high jewellery items and of engagement rings. The talents of the various different artistic crafts work together under the same roof to produce dazzling creations, offering their wearers both suppleness and comfort. Exhibiting regularly at the Biennale des Antiquaires since 2010, the Manufacture has already imposed its distinctive, elegant style through a rich variety of exceptional creations, designed 100% in-house and created in the Manufacture’s high jewellery workshops.
The gift for anticipating future trends has always formed part of Piaget’s DNA. It is the fervent desire to constantly experiment and explore potential new avenues both in terms of technique and aesthetic design that enables Piaget to continually write new pages in the history of Haute Horlogerie.
This is why the traditions established by the first generations of the Piaget family play such a fundamental role. When each new timepiece is created, it is vital to combine tradition and modernity. It is by mastering the mystery of the art of watchmaking that technical limits can be surpassed. The exceptional talent of Piaget’s craftsmen lies in their ability to constantly reinvent ancestral watchmaking techniques and to revisit a rich history of innovation so as to imagine new possibilities to surprise and to create fresh emotions.
Two fully integrated Manufactures
In order to ensure its future success and to remain at the summit of its art, in 2001 Piaget inaugurated a new Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie in Plan-les-Ouates, just outside Geneva. It is in this huge ultra-modern building that take place the production by hand of watch cases and gold bracelets, the casing-up, gem-setting, finishing, creation and research and development of new watches, together with one of the largest Haute Joaillerie workshops in Geneva. As for the operations more specifically related to watchmaking, such as research and development, production, decoration, assembly and adjustment of movements, these continue to be the exclusive domain of the watch Manufacture in La Côte-aux-Fées. It is in this historic head office building that the assembly and preparation of all the most complex parts also takes place.
This ingenious merging of the two Manufactures makes it possible to produce calibres that are entirely designed, produced, decorated and assembled by Piaget. During the last decade Piaget has created a large number of movements, including some very impressive complications: the calibre 600P – the thinnest tourbillon in the world; the calibre 608P – a spectacular tourbillon relatif movement; the renowned calibre 880P – the Fly-Back chronograph movement with a dual time zone; and the calibre 1290P – the thinnest mechanical self-winding Minute Repeater movement in the world (with a thickness of only 4.8 mm).
In these two fully integrated Manufactures, Piaget’s skills are applied with virtuosity in three main areas: basic movements (both hand-wound and self-winding), movements with major complications (Tourbillon, Perpetual Calendar, Chronograph, Minute Repeater) and skeleton movements, including gem-set skeletonised calibres, a speciality in which the Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie Piaget has developed expert skills.
Founded in 1874, the Piaget firm has a dual capability — watchmaking and jewellery. One of its watchmaking specialities is ultra-thin movements, and the Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie can boast an outstanding range of calibres of its own make. At the same time Piaget’s creativeness has consistently risen to the regular production of new jewellery collections. From its two facilities, in La Côte-aux-Fées, in the Neuchâtel Jura and in Plan-les-Ouates, near Geneva city, come the products that a carefully chosen sales network brings to the customer.
Piaget has a double personality: as a watchmaker and as a jeweller. The company assiduously develops its two areas of expertise, which it unites under a signature that has no equal in the world of luxury. Cosmopolitan Piaget stands for beautiful products derived from the superiority of its authentic skills.
Piaget above all represents the art of capturing time so that it can be measured in hours, minutes and seconds. It started in 1874, when the company’s founder, Georges Edouard Piaget produced his first horological movements.
Georges Edouard Piaget
Two generations later, the company pioneered ultra-thin wristwatches with the remarkable 9P hand-wound movement, followed in 1960 by its self-winding counterpart, the 2.3-millimetre thick Calibre 12P. The 12P earned Piaget an entry in the Guinness Book of Records as the creator of the world’s thinnest watch movement. The brand continues to claim unchallenged expertise in thin mechanical movements. The new generation of 12-ligne (26.8 mm diameter) calibres, the 800P series, bears this out. In keeping with its eventful past, Piaget has been extraordinarily industrious these past 10 years in the development of mechanical movements, producing no fewer than 17 different calibres. Not many of the top luxury-watch brands can claim such creative output.
Piaget focuses as much attention on its sales network as on its production. The result is that the company now has 65 of its own stores around the world. Their interior decoration, designed by architect Gérard Barrau, combines wood, aluminium and stone in a convivial atmosphere with a decidedly contemporary look. As well as in Piaget boutiques, its products are sold by independent watchmakers’ and jewellers’ around the world, many of them longstanding partners and all unequivocally committed to Piaget’s high standards of competence and expertise.
YVES G. PIAGET A LIVING LEGEND
Born in 1942, Yves G. Piaget hails from La Côte-aux-Fées, the cradle of Piaget watches. He pursued scientific studies, earning a degree in watchmaking engineering from the University of Neuchâtel and graduating as a Gemmologist from the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) in Los Angeles. Representing the 4th generation of an illustrious line, Yves G. Piaget has masterminded several innovations that have proved to be landmarks in the history of Piaget, and indeed that of the watch industry as a whole.
In the 60s, the company produced the very first ultra-thin quartz movement, making it possible to craft extremely beautiful Haute Joaillerie watches. This world first was a natural extension of a tradition cultivated by Piaget, already recognised as the specialist of ultra-thin watches. Subsequently, it further established its technological and creative genius, broadening its renown to reach leadership status in “watch fashion”.
Throughout his career, Yves. G. Piaget has been a tireless traveller who has succeeded in spreading the brand’s fame to the four corners of the earth. While preserving its moderate size that is so conducive to ensuring the personal touch, along with its fundamental Haute Horlogerie philosophy, he gave the company a whole new dimension in 1998 through its merger with the Richemont Group.
Synonymous with “genuine luxury”, the name of Yves G. Piaget is a perpetual source of inspiration the world over. Because he enshrines style, elegance and emotion. Because he is a fascinating individual, driven by a number of passions: for new technologies, for equestrian sports, for the rose that bears his name. Decorated with the Grande Médaille d’Argent de la Ville de Paris, he was subsequently appointed Commandeur de l’Ordre National de Côte d’Ivoire by President Félix Houphouet-Boigny, before receiving the insignia of an Officier de l’Ordre de St-Charles from the hands of His Serene Highness, Rainier III of Monaco.
In 1999, Philippe Léopold-Metzger became the Chief Executive Officer of Piaget SA. Under the leadership of Philippe Léopold-Metzger, the company has developed its network of boutiques in a highly selective manner, increased its presence and corresponding consumer awareness in Europe, while maintaining its positions in Asia and the United States. His period of leadership has also been marked by the inauguration of a new Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva.
In 2017, Chabi Nouri became the first female CEO of Piaget .
At SIHH 2018, along with Altiplano Ultimate Concept watch, which is the world’s thinnest hand-wound mechanical watch, Piaget has unveiled the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, the world’s thinnest self-winding mechanical watch. Dressed in a mere 4.30 mm thick case, this timepiece is a distillation of technical excellence, a record-holder for its extreme thinness, and the ultimate symbol of elegance.
Like the 900P concept movement, the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic breaks free of the distinction between movement and exterior elements. Designed as an inseparable whole to set a new thinness record, the movement and case form a single entity, with the latter serving as a mainplate to which the 219 incredibly thin components are affixed. Some of the parts are barely thicker than a hair’s breadth, including certain wheels measuring just 0.12 mm thick (compared with 0.20 mm on a traditional movement). This highly complex architecture has led to a reversed movement construction, with the bridges fitted on the dial side – an approach that contributes to the inimitable aesthetic of the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, since they are now visible through the front of the watch.
The entire mechanism and hand-fitting is contained within the thickness of the balance wheel, thus entailing an off-centred display of the hours and minutes that is entirely in tune with the emblematic design codes of the Altiplano line. Working within these extremely small confines, Piaget opted for a suspended barrel, held by a single bridge on the dial side, contrary to customary barrels that are also fixed on the mainplate side. The Altiplano Ultimate Automatic enjoys a generous 50-hour power reserve.
The oscillating weight in 22K gold with black PVD coating is positioned on the movement periphery so as to be incorporated into its thickness and thus contribute to the overall slimness. The choice of gold for this technical component is essential as it allows a perfect machining, and it endows the oscillating weight with a weight, an inertia and a robustness guaranteeing excellent winding performance.
The hours and minutes are integrated within the thickness of the calibre, whereas they tend to be placed on top in standard constructions. A patent has been filed for this major breakthrough aimed at enhancing reliability.
When a watch is subjected to strong pressure, its glass is slightly distorted. While this physical phenomenon goes relatively unnoticed on a traditional timepiece, things are very different with an ultrathin watch. Given the fact that spaces are reduced to an absolute minimum, the glass would tend to press against the hands when thus distorted, causing the movement to stop. By fitting the hands below the bridges, Piaget thus frees up space between the cannon-pinion and the glass. If the latter is distorted due to pressure, it no longer pushes on the hands, but instead on the gear-train bridge and thus has no effect on the smooth running of the movement.
The timepiece features highest standards of movement finishing. Machined in the actual watch case, the mainplate has been satin-brushed and sand-blasted, while the wheels are alternately sunburst- or circular satin-finished. Hollowed out so as to afford an even better view of the subtle mechanism operating at the heart of the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, the chamfered bridges are sunburst satin-brushed. The historical “Piaget Automatic” inscription that appeared on the very first ultra-thin timepiece from the Maison also sets the seal on this new watch, thereby paying tribute to the extremely rich history of the line. Finally, the index-assembly bearing the “P” for Piaget adds a final signature to this sophisticated timepiece. Chamfered and sunburst bridges, and black PVD coated screws set the final aesthetic touches to this exceptional watch.
Case
Diameter: 41 mm
18K pink gold (Ref G0A43120)
18K White gold (Ref G0A43121)
Movement
Mechanical automatic Calibre 910P with black PVD-coated 22K gold peripheral oscillating weight
Development time: three years
Power reserve: approximately 50 hours
Frequency: 21,600 vph / 3 Hz
Thickness: 4.30 mm (case + movement)
Number of jewels: 30
Functions: hours and minutes offset at 10 o’clock
Number of components: 238 (case + movement)
Finishing operations: circular satin-brushed caseback, sunburst satin-brushed bridges, chamfered bridges, sunburst or circular satin-finished wheels, black-coated screws, dedicated index assembly with “P” as the Piaget signature
Demonstrating inexhaustible vitality in its quest for infinite slenderness, the Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie Piaget is establishing two world records setting the crowning touch to the 60th anniversary celebrations of its iconic Altiplano collection. First is Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, the world’s thinnest self-winding watch at just 4.30mm thick. The second with the Altiplano Ultimate Concept, developed by the Piaget “Research and Innovation” division: the world’s thinnest mechanical hand-wound watch at just 2mm thick, the same size as the historical Calibre 9P .
Born in 1874 as a movement manufacturer in the village of La Côte-aux-Fées, before becoming an internationally renowned brand, Piaget has continuously sought innovative solutions in the field of infinite slenderness. Launched in 1957, the hand-wound Calibre 9P was one of the world’s thinnest mechanical movements of that period at just 2mm thick. This legendary calibre enabled the brand to distinguish itself in the realm of ultra-thin watch-making. Also, the legendary Altiplano line was emerged. While Calibre 9P was to have a decisive influence on the watch industry, the new movement on which Valentin Piaget was working would fully establish the reputation of the Maison.
The 2.3mm thick Calibre 12P unveiled at the 1960 Basel Fair was a milestone in watchmaking history: the world’s thinnest self-winding movement at the time. Continuing to cultivate its heritage with brilliant ingenuity, Piaget can lay claim to a proud lineage of ultra-thin mechanical movements, both hand-wound and self-winding, with or without complications and resulting from decades of creativity, inventions and investments on both technical and aesthetic levels.
In a world where records tend to be surpassed by tenths of a millimetre, the Altiplano watch line represents an authentic revolution. It stems from a merging of the skills cultivated by two Manufactures: one in La Côte-aux-Fées where the movements are developed; and the other in Plan-les-Ouates, where the watch exterior components are designed and crafted in complete synergy with the watchmakers.
For the 140th anniversary of the Maison, in 2014, Piaget launched a revolutionary concept watch: the Altiplano 900P whose construction broke free of the binary vision of the movement and case – with the latter serving as the baseplate – in establishing a world record for the slimmest mechanical watch at the time. Its highly complex architecture entailed an inverted movement construction.
In 2018, as Piaget continues to celebrate 60 years of the Altiplano saga, the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic and the Altiplano Ultimate Concept provide a masterful new demonstration of Piaget’s supremacy in the domain of ultrathin calibres and timepieces. Models embodying every possible superlative, they are setting two new and significant world records, as respectively the world’s thinnest mechanical self-winding and mechanical hand-wound watches.
The goal was simple and yet difficult: Make the construction compact as possible to reduce its thickness to the limits of feasibility, while making no concessions in terms of its reliability and aesthetic appeal. A new ultra-rigid and robust cobalt-based high-tech alloy enables the watch not to buckle despite its extreme slenderness. The model picks up the “2 in 1” structure that erases the distinction between movement and watch exterior, since the case is both an exterior component and the movement baseplate.
All the elements of the calibre and case have been rethought, designed and developed with a view to achieving extreme slimness, with some wheels measuring just 0.12mm thick (compared with 0.20mm on a traditional movement). Within this mechanism, tolerances are measured in hundredths of a millimetre, meaning that the artisans and watchmakers must display the kind of deftness acquired only by years of practice. The thickness of the watch crystal has also been reduced to just 0.2mm as against 1mm for a standard watch. But above all, five patents have been filed for the technological innovations featured in the Altiplano Ultimate Concept. The inverted movement that contributes to the distinctive aesthetic of the Altiplano Ultimate enables a clear view of the various elements well deserving of this patent protection.
At 9 o’clock, mounted on a ball-bearing mechanism fitted directly on the frame, the construction of the regulating organ has been entirely redesigned. The balance wheel bridge has vanished, as has the traditional structure in which the regulating organ is mounted on incabloc shock absorbers. The balance-staff, the inner ring of the ball bearing mechanism and the roller form an indivisible whole. Within this layout, the balance wheel and spring are pinned up to the collet and inverted, meaning that the balance wheel appears above the balance-spring, whereas the latter is usually pinned up to the collet. The absence of an index assembly is compensated by an adjustable balance-spring stud. This set of solutions enables a significant reduction in the thickness of the regulating organ, while guaranteeing its precision and its isochronism.
At 6 o’clock, the innovatively designed barrel also features a special and distinctive construction. It has no cover and no drum. The ball-bearing-mounted mainspring is directly integrated within the frame. Guided on the outside by the ball-bearing mechanism, it transmits its energy via the latter’s inner ring. The ratchet wheel and core of the barrel arbor are all of a piece and close off the top of the barrel. This technical construction also ensures that this movement component is compact and thus contributes to the overall thinness. It also serves to avoid reducing the autonomy of the movement, enabling the Altiplano Ultimate Concept to offer a generous 44-hour power reserve.
At 3 o’clock, the control device has also been revisited. Its design enables selective control of a time-setting and winding device or of any other mechanism relating to a function, such as a date or moon-phase corrector that might in due course be added to this type of construction. This is a major innovation opening up whole new vistas in the field of ultra-thinness as applied to complication watches. More specifically, this device is composed of a control stem, a pinion mounted on the stem, as well as a selection lever arranged so as to establish a kinematic link between the pinion (and thus the stem) and a gear (among a number of gears). These gears are each associated with a specific mechanism, thus enabling selective control of a corresponding function. To achieve this, the usual sliding pinion takes the form of a worm screw and can thus directly drive a toothed wheel and pinion on the same plane as the rotation axis (instead of being superimposed). The selection lever is fitted with an intermediate wheel and pinion arranged in such a way that it can selectively mesh with each of the gears (and their respective functions). The use of a single intermediate wheel and pinion to enable selective coupling with one or other of the gears reduces the number of components and thus makes the device particularly compact.
Replacing the usual kind of crown and thus avoiding any protuberance on the side, a flat-shaped “telescopic” crown is recessed into the caseband and secured to the stem via a spring clip. This construction ensures the crown is perfectly integrated within the caseband and protects it from any improper handling or impacts that might damage the movement.
Finally, while the thickness of the watch crystal is reduced to an absolute minimum (0.2mm), it must nonetheless meet the modern criteria of shock resistance and water resistance (3 ATM). The crystal must be perfectly positioned and accurately aligned with the bezel which, in the case of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept, is integrated with the case (whereas in a classic construction the crystal is integrated with the bezel which is then placed on the case to close it). It is also perfectly cemented in place. Too much cement would be detrimental to the alignment, whereas too little would not guarantee a perfectly hermetic seal. In response to this challenge, the fitting of the crystal has been rethought. Piaget has designed a space in the form of a circular compartment juxtaposing the bezel and intended to house the exact quantity of cement required to secure the movement in place and ensure the perfect positioning of the crystal.
These five patents are joining the one filed in 2014 for the launch of the Altiplano 900P and relating to the hand-fitting. The latter is mounted under the bridges, contrary to a classic construction in which it is be placed on top, and thereby freeing up space between the cannon-pinion and the crystal. When the latter is distorted by pressure, a phenomenon that is relatively imperceptible for a traditional watch but significant for an ultra-thin watch with lower safety tolerances, it no longer presses on the hands but instead on the going-train bridge and thus has no effect on the rate of the movement.
Attired in a cobalt-based high-tech alloy, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept displays a supremely elegant and technical appearance. Machined directly in the watch case, the baseplate has been given a black PDV treatment like that of the caseback, while the wheels feature alternate sunburst or circular satin-brushed finishing. Cut-out so as to reveal more fully the subtle mechanism operating at the heart of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept, the chamfered bridges are sunburst satin-brushed so as to further enhance this exceptional watch. Reflecting Piaget’s cherished aesthetic codes, all have been meticulously finished in keeping with the noblest watch-making traditions, through a patient process rendered even more delicate by the extraordinary slimness of the elements.
The watch is fitted with an ultra-thin 1.1mm thick alligator leather strap with a Kevlar core and a velvet calfskin lining is secured by an ultra-thin pin buckle.
A non-commercialised concept watch, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept embodies an authentic revolution in the ultra-thin field, opening up new technological prospects for the Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie Piaget. The connoisseurs will subsequently find these feats incorporated within the brand’s series-produced models.
Case
Diameter: 41 mm
World’s thinnest mechanical hand-wound watch
Thickness: 2.0mm (case + movement)
Watch made from a cobalt-based high-tech alloy
Calibre and watch exterior merge as one
Rectangular-shaped crown recessed into the caseband
Monobloc bezel integrated into the frame
0.2mm thick crystal
Movement
Caliber: Piaget 900P-UC
Development time: four years
Five patents pending
Power reserve: approx. 44 hours
Frequency: 28,800 vph/ 4 Hz
Number of jewels: 13
Functions: Hours, Minutes offset at 12 o’clock
Finishing: black PVD-treated and satin-brushed baseplate and caseback, polished case
Total weight: 21.7g
At the SIHH high horology exhibition in Geneva in January 2018, Piaget presented two stone marquetry tourbillon timepieces from its Altiplano line.
Deftly combining Fine Watchmaking mastery with the virtuoso skills of stone marquetry, the Altiplano welcomes a tourbillon and invites malachite and lapis lazuli to adorn its dial. The highly artistic dials of the Altiplano malachite marquetry tourbillon and Altiplano High Jewellery lapis lazuli tourbillon models are created by Hervé Obligi, a multi-talented artist specialized in Decorative Arts.
For 30 years, he has been taming lapis lazuli, jade, jasper, cornelian and agate. Both artisan and artist, he nurtures a passion combining all expressions of his art, from restoring antique furniture to design. It was the mastery of this art that earned his atelier the French title of “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” (living Heritage Company). In 2015, Piaget began a remarkable collaboration with this exceptional marquetry specialist, who devoted his expertise and virtuosity to the Altiplano, the elegant ultra-thin icon, in order to exalt the captivating beauty of the Yves Piaget Rose on the dial. For the second time, the Maison has invited the Maître d’Art to apply his creative and contemporary vision to the Altiplano dial. This year, Piaget has opted for malachite and lapis lazuli, two emblematic hard stones that the Maison has been using in its creations since the 1960s.
Developed to ensure a perfect fit with the Altiplano 41mm case, the ultra-thin mechanical hand-wound tourbillon Calibre 670P, measuring just 4.6mm thick, features a patented arbor winding system with setting wheel. It is also equipped with a new barrel ensuring a larger power reserve that now spans a comfortable 48 hours. The decision to opt for a flying tourbillon and an off-centred hour indication, both classic Piaget style signatures, contributes to the beauty of the model. This distinctive tourbillon construction provides an opportunity to admire the ethereal delicacy of the titanium carriage, which, despite its 42 components, weighs just 0.2g. The volute stone marquetry dial motif is off-centred so as to create a “Sunny Side of Life” effect that also epitomises the Piaget style.
Altiplano Malachite Marquetry Tourbillon (G0A43030)
Framed by a pink gold case, the splendid malachite swirls in magnificent shades of green: emerald, pine, dark and light, criss-crossed by an accurate and meticulous set of dark layers, arranged in such a way as to give the mesmerising dial a very “Sunny Side of Life” look.
On the movement side, the Fine Watchmaking finishing features circular Côtes de Genève, manual circular graining on the mainplate and bridges, as well as hand-drawn and bevelled bridges and carriage. The Altiplano malachite marquetry tourbillon reference G0A43030 bears the historical Piaget logo in the hour counter.
Dial
Malachite marquetry dial set with red gold coloured hour markers
Movement
Piaget Manufacture 670P ultra-thin mechanical hand-wound flying tourbillon movement
Thickness: 4.6mm
Patented arbor winding system with setting wheel
New barrel increasing power reserve
Flying tourbillon, (carriage suspended from a single axis)
Ultra-thin, ultra-light carriage (2.8mm, 0.2g, three titanium bridges)
Diameter: 31.2mm
Power reserve: 48 hours
Frequency: 3Hz
Number of jewels: 23
Number of components: 157
Finishing: circular Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate and bridges, bevelled and hand drawn bridges and carriage, black screws on the bridge side
Strap
Green alligator leather bracelet set with an 18K pink gold folding clasp
Altiplano High Jewellery Lapis Lazuli Marquetry Tourbillon (G0A43031)
With its splendid shades of blue ranging from ultramarine to azure speckled with white and gold, lapis lazuli deploys its incomparable intensity on a dial graced with a whirling pattern highlighted by the work of the master-gem setters. While ultra-thinness is a hallmark of the Piaget identity, the equally demanding art of gem setting is equally emblematic. White gold lights up with the sparkle of diamonds.
Baguette- and brilliant cut gems totalling 5.07 carats thus adorn the bezel, case band, lugs, crown, clasp and case back, through which one can admire the Fine Watchmaking finishes featuring circular Côtes de Genève, manual circular-grained main plate and bridges, as well as the hand-drawn and bevelled bridges and carriage. The historical Piaget logo adorns the hour counter of this Altiplano High Jewellery tourbillon (G0A43031).
Case
18K white gold with sapphire case back set with 48 baguette-cut diamonds (approx. 2.51 cts) and 265 brilliantcut diamonds (approx. 2.42 cts) and crown set with 1 brilliant-cut diamond (approx. 0.09 ct)
Dial
Lapis lazuli marquetry dial set with silver-toned coloured hour-markers
Movement
Piaget Manufacture 670P ultra-thin mechanical hand-wound flying tourbillon movement
Thickness: 4.6mm
Patented arbor winding system with setting wheel
New barrel increasing power reserve
Flying tourbillon, (carriage suspended from a single axis)
Ultra-thin, ultra-light carriage (2.8mm, 0.2g, three titanium bridges)
Diameter: 31.2mm
Power reserve: 48 hours
Frequency: 3Hz
Number of jewels: 23
Number of components: 157
Finishing: circular Côtes de Genève, circular-grained main plate and bridges, bevelled and hand-drawn bridges and carriage, black screws on the bridge side
Strap
Blue alligator leather bracelet set with an 18K white gold folding clasp set with 24 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0.05 ct)
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