Audemars Piguet Unveils the Neo Frame Collection: A Bold Leap Forward
A daring departure from tradition! Audemars Piguet, the renowned Swiss watchmaker, has unveiled a collection that challenges the status quo. Introducing the Neo Frame, a collection that pushes the boundaries of design and innovation, leaving watch enthusiasts intrigued and eager for more.
The Neo Frame collection debuts with a striking timepiece, the Neo Frame Jumping Hour, marking a significant shift in the brand's design language. With a new case and movement, it's a fresh take on Audemars Piguet's heritage, drawing inspiration from the past while forging a new path.
A Surprising Revelation: This release is a surprise to many, especially compared to the brand's recent [RE]Master series. But here's where it gets interesting: the Neo Frame is not a mere evolution but a bold leap forward, with no direct connection to existing product lines. It's a new collection with a unique identity, inspired by the brand's pre-model watches from the 1920s.
The Neo Frame Jumping Hour: This watch is a masterpiece of design and engineering. Its 18k pink gold case measures 24.6mm wide and 34mm long, with a thickness of 8.8mm. But the real magic lies within. The rectangular case houses a round, self-winding movement, Caliber 7122, based on the Caliber 7121 from the Jumbo Royal Oak models. This movement enables the brand's first-ever self-winding jump hour complication, showcasing 43 jewels and a 52-hour power reserve.
A Historical Connection: Audemars Piguet's journey with rectangular watches dates back to the 1920s. The brand sold 347 timepieces with jumping hour complications between 1924 and 1951, including the pre-model 1271 from 1929. This watch, now in the brand's museum, featured a guichet jump-hour display and ribbed lines on the brancards, a unique design element that pays homage to AP's history.
Innovative Case Construction: The Neo Frame's case construction is a marvel in itself. Despite its 20m water resistance, the case lacks a crosspiece on the top or bottom. Instead, the front is a flat sapphire crystal with a black PVD coating, seamlessly integrating the dial plate and gold-toned apertures. This entire assembly is then screwed into the case, creating a sleek, seamless look.
The Future of Neo Frame: Audemars Piguet has confirmed that the Neo Frame collection will expand, with more pieces joining the initial release. Meanwhile, the [RE]Master collection will continue with future limited editions. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour, priced at $71,200, is not a limited edition, setting the stage for the collection's future.
A Controversial Design Choice: The Neo Frame's size is a topic of discussion. While some may find it small, it's worth noting that the dimensions exclude the lugs, which would bring it closer to the size of a classic Cartier Tank Must. This design choice may spark debate among watch enthusiasts, especially those with a preference for larger timepieces.
Hands-On Experience: As an enthusiast, I'm eager to experience the Neo Frame Jumping Hour in person. Its dial treatment, a blend of modern and vintage cues, is intriguing. Audemars Piguet's rich history with jump hours adds to the allure. The collection's unexpected nature leaves me curious about the brand's future plans.
Technical Specifications:
- Brand: Audemars Piguet
- Model: Neo Frame Jumping Hour
- Reference: 15245OR
- Case Size: 24.6mm x 34mm
- Case Thickness: 8.8mm
- Case Material: 18k Pink Gold
- Dial: Black PVD-treated sapphire with gold-toned micro-blasted apertures
- Display: Digital with jump hour and trailing minutes
- Lume: None
- Water Resistance: 20m
- Strap: Black calfskin leather with 18-carat pink gold AP clasp
The Heart of the Watch:
- Caliber: Calibre 7122
- Functions: Jumping hours, trailing minutes
- Movement Size: 29.6mm x 4mm
- Power Reserve: 52 hours
- Winding: Automatic
- Frequency: 4Hz
- Jewels: 43
- Chronometer Certified: No
Pricing and Availability:
- Price: $71,200
- Release Date: June 2026
- Limited Edition: No
Audemars Piguet's Neo Frame collection is a bold statement, challenging the norms of watch design. But is it a step too far, or a brilliant evolution? What do you think about this controversial release? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
