In a dazzling display of artistry and horological precision, Audemars Piguet has unveiled its latest high jewellery creation, the Haute Joaillerie Sapphire Orbe 67705BC, at its historic atelier in Le Brassus, Switzerland. The piece represents a stunning fusion of Swiss watchmaking expertise and the meticulous craftsmanship of high jewellery, promising to captivate collectors and connoisseurs alike.
The design of the Sapphire Orbe draws inspiration from the Orbe River, which flows gracefully through the Vallée de Joux. Evoking the natural transition from night to day, the watch features a gradient of more than 12,000 carefully selected gemstones, transitioning from deep midnight blues to warm amber tones, interspersed with brilliant diamonds. Each stone has been individually cut and set to create the illusion of flowing water, a testament to over 1,050 hours of masterful craftsmanship.
The watch’s sculptural form takes the shape of a teardrop, surrounded by petal-like rings that give it a multidimensional surface. This allows the piece to capture and refract light from every angle, creating a shimmering, ethereal effect. At the heart of this jewel lies a discreet domed chamber housing a secret quartz timepiece, seamlessly integrated so that the functionality of timekeeping remains hidden beneath the beauty of the jewellery.
Audemars Piguet describes the Sapphire Orbe as a symbol of its commitment to blending artistic expression with technical mastery, where every facet, curve, and gemstone placement is designed to delight the eye and celebrate the brand’s heritage of fine watchmaking. With an estimated value of around $1 million, the creation stands as one of the most striking examples of contemporary haute joaillerie in the world.
Collectors and enthusiasts seeking exclusivity will find the Sapphire Orbe to be a rare jewel that exemplifies the pinnacle of Swiss luxury, artistry, and innovation, solidifying Audemars Piguet’s reputation as a leading force in high-end horology.