Piaget Altiplano Automatic Skeleton Only Watch 2013 movement

Extra-plat et ultra-chic: l'Altiplano Piaget 38 mm Only Watch 2013 Skeleton 1200S

Less is more is an expression used at La Cote-aux-Fees for 50 years, where the magic of the thin has become the signature of virtuoso manufacture.

By David Richard

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton an ultra-thin timepiece for Only Watch 2013

In an era where the flatness can reach heights, the ultimate aim is also to the extra-thin. With 2.40 mm thick for the movement and 5.34 mm for the case, it is difficult to do less for a mechanical self-winding skeleton watch! Since its launch in 2012, the Piaget Altiplano Skeleton holds two world records. Exit the introductory paradox with this top-flight timepiece where even the name - high plains - epitomizes the full brilliance of its conception.

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 is delivered in platinum 950

The constraints of the slim line

No need to have a keen interest in watchmaking to imagine the difficulty of working on components which some are less than the diameter of a hair, while ensuring tightness, reliability and durability of the finished product. Optimization of surfaces and spaces, both with the movement and the casing, are essential. Achieving this feat, the Piaget Altiplano Skeleton is a perfect integration and synchronization of the whole watchmaking corporate association. Each constraint it’s impact, both technical and aesthetical, on more than 189 components, not counting the case !

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton with 189 components

In this quest for victory over the matter, the brand has greatest legitimacy since 1957 with the advent of its calibre 9P. The vintage posters already proudly proclaimed Piaget as "Specialist of the ultra thin watch”. Since then, it has not stopped. It has focused consistently on the aesthetics and size of its watches. By 1960, successful bet and compulsory stampede at Baselworld to see the famous P 12 automatic calibre, which, from the top of its 2.3 mm thickness, saw many experts challenge its capacity to function. From parentage to reference, Piaget now has 23 extra-thin movements including 5 skeletons.

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton case is only 5.34mm thick!

The infinitely small: the Piaget DNA

The 1200 S that equips the Only Watch 2013 is an offshoot of the 1200 P (holder of the world record in 2010). It has taken three years of development and also brings its share of innovations. One recognizes the signature of the brand in the off-centerred micro-rotor placed at 9:00, delivered here in 950 platinum.

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The oscillating weight is engraved with the arms of the Principality of Monaco

The balance bridge, newly designed, has a symmetrical and harmonious aesthetic while the rotor bridge of the hour is further refined with a minimum wall thickness of 0.11 mm. The whole piece is playing with light, on the alternation of materials with matt, sanded or sunray dial surfaces, brightness of the angles and the colour variations black or rhodium. Pursuing these colour games, the unique movement of the Only Watch 2013 model has a PVD finish in unison with the exclusive black colour of the 38 mm white gold case. Sealing the uniqueness of the piece, its perimeter is engraved with "Only Watch 2013 - unique piece".

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 wristshot The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 wristshot

One can easily imagine the debauchery of work and attention to details in order to achieve the final piece, thoroughly modern in its architecture. A perfect illustration of the family motto "always do better than necessary", also perfect to support the charitable context of the Monaco auction.

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013 The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton for Only Watch 2013
 

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