Le Brassus, August 2023 – Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet is pleased to announce a new collaboration with American designer Matthew Williams, founder of the brand 1017 ALYX 9SM. To mark the occasion, four new Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore references and a Royal Oak unique piece are being launched simultaneously. The timepieces combine the recognisable aesthetic codes of the Manufacture with the designer’s refined touch. The two brands have designed this resolutely modern collection together to appeal to fashion lovers and allow them to express their individuality.
A collaboration at the crossroads of two worlds
This unprecedented collaboration between Audemars Piguet and the fashion brand 1017 ALYX 9SM, which was founded in 2015, is the last example to date celebrating the strong ties that the Manufacture has forged with different creative worlds, such as fashion.
The Chicago-born designer likes to play with materials that are high quality, innovative and highly technical to develop surprising and disruptive creations. The two brands share this avant-garde spirit, as well as a passion for details and the mastery of their craft. In addition, they both adhere to a holistic sustainable approach.
“A collaboration like this allows for me to explore and extend my knowledge to another area of excellence.”
Matthew Williams, Designer and founder of 1017 ALYX 9SM
A modern and refined aesthetic
Matthew Williams sees the watch as an expression of who you are. For this collaboration, the Manufacture and the designer have developed a collection with a minimalist aesthetic composed of several references ranging from 37 to 42 mm. Adaptable to all wrist types, these sober timepieces let the owner’s personality shine through and constitute a bridge between the worlds of fashion and Haute Horlogerie.
The four references come in 18-carat yellow or white gold and are comprised of two Royal Oak models and two Royal Oak Offshore models of different diameters. This is the first time that the same design has been developed for both collections simultaneously. In an effort to make the aesthetics as clean and pure as possible, Matthew Williams and Audemars Piguet have reduced the dials to their simplest form, removing the hour-markers and the date aperture on the Royal Oak models to highlight the elegant vertical satin-finishing decorating the gold dials. The result is timeless monochrome timepieces that blend refined aesthetics with advanced watchmaking techniques.
The two Royal Oak models are crafted entirely in 18-carat yellow gold. The first is a 37 mm selfwinding reference indicating the hours, minutes and seconds, which is ideal for smaller wrists. The minimalist dial comes with luminescent yellow-gold hands and the signatures “Audemars Piguet” and “1017 ALYX 9SM”, the former in a gold applique and the latter is transferred. The second model is a selfwinding chronograph measuring 41 mm in diameter, which pushes the minimalism of the dial to the limit, going so far as to eliminate the chronograph counters, leaving only the hands to rotate at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. These two Royal Oak references are produced in limited series.
The two Royal Oak Offshore models follow the same theme, dispensing with the information usually present on the dial and keeping only the bare minimum. Only the date aperture, which is emblematic of the Royal Oak Offshore collection, remains at 3 o’clock, next to the AP monogram. The 1017 ALYX 9SM signature is for its part located at 6 o’clock. The chronograph counters at 6, 9 and 12 o’clock have also been removed, leaving only the hands – a first for a chronograph. These 42 mm limited editions are available in a choice of 18-carat white or yellow gold, giving them a style that is both sober and dazzling. Equipped with the Manufacture’s interchangeable strap system, these models are accompanied by an additional strap in black rubber for an intense contrast.
These four references also feature the refined hand finishes emblematic of the Manufacture, alternating polished and satin-finished surfaces that provide infinite plays on the light. The caseback is engraved with the words “Limited Edition”.
Three latest-generation movements and a dedicated oscillating weight
These four Royal Oak Selfwinding, Selfwinding Chronograph and Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph references are powered by different latest-generation movements.
The 37 mm Royal Oak Selfwinding model house the Calibre 5909, introduced in 2022. This movement, which is only 4 mm thick, beats at a frequency of 4 Hz and has a power reserve of 60 hours.
The 41 mm Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph is powered by the latest selfwinding chronograph movement with the integrated chronograph Calibre 4409. Designed without a date indication, this selfwinding movement is equipped with a column wheel and a flyback function that allows the chronograph to be restarted instantly without having to stop or reset it first. It also has a vertical clutch that prevents the hands from jumping when the chronograph is started or stopped. A patented reset mechanism ensures that each counter hand instantly returns to its original position. Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,000 vibrations per hour), it has a power reserve of 70 hours.
Finally, the two Royal Oak Offshore models are equipped with the Calibre 4404, which comes with an integrated chronograph and a flyback function. This movement has the same features as the Calibre 4409 but is slightly thicker, which works perfectly with the Royal Oak Offshore’s large case.
Each model is fitted with a sapphire crystal caseback that opens onto the oscillating weight that has been specially developed for these limited editions. Made of 22-carat yellow or white gold, it features an engraving of the 1017 ALYX 9SM signature as well as the indication of Newton’s millimeter and rotor weight, a nod to the technical references indicated by Matthew Williams on his buckles. The wearer can also admire the refined decorations including Côtes de Genève, circular graining, sunray and satin finishing as well as polished bevels.
“This is the first time we have dressed the Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore simultaneously, and it was a natural fit thanks to Matthew’s clean, contemporary design! That is the beauty of this collaboration: the synergies are such that we have taken each other to the next level.”
François-Henry Bennahmias, Chief Executive Officer Audemars Piguet
A unique piece to support underprivileged children
In addition to these four models sold in Audemars Piguet boutiques, the designer and the Manufacture have created a unique Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph piece. This 41 mm model has a two-tone case and bracelet, combining 18-carat yellow gold and stainless steel. This marriage of materials is contrasted with a black PVD-coated gold dial decorated with vertical satin-finishing. The dial also includes the signatures of both brands as well as yellow-gold chronograph hands. The three central hands in yellow gold that are enhanced with luminescent coating for optimal readability in the dark complete the design. Powered by the Calibre 4409, this timepiece combines state-of-the-art technology with a contemporary aesthetic.
The auction of this unique piece will take place during the launch party of the collaboration between Audemars Piguet and 1017 ALYX 9SM on August 24 in Tokyo.
The funds raised will be donated to projects aimed at supporting play-based learning initiatives in favour of disadvantaged children, notably through the actions of the NGOs Kids in Motion and Right to Play. Kids in Motion supports a specific project in Lamu, Kenya, which allows the local population to strengthen its infrastructure and support the activities of its community within the school. Right to Play uses play to reveal the potential of each child. The choice of supporting play-based learning projects was made following the recommendations of the Audemars Piguet Foundations and Matthew Williams, who has been supporting actions in favour of disadvantaged children for many years.“Seek Beyond.”
Royal Oak Selfwinding / 37 mm Ref 15550BA.OO.1356BA.02
Functions
- Hours, minutes and central seconds.
Movement specifications
- Selfwinding Calibre 5909
- Total diameter 26.2 mm (11½ lignes)
- Total thickness 4 mm
- Number of parts 186
- Number of jewels 29
- Minimum power reserve guaranteed 60 h
- Frequency of balance wheel 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Case
- 18-carat yellow gold case, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback, caseback engraved with “Limited Edition”, water resistant to 50 m.
- Case thickness: 9.1 mm
Dial
- 18-carat yellow gold dial with vertical satin finishing, yellow gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
Bracelet
- 18-carat yellow gold bracelet with AP folding clasp.
Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph / 41 mm Ref 26240BA.OO.1320BA.01
Functions
- Flyback chronograph, hours, minutes and small seconds.
Movement specifications
- Selfwinding Calibre 4409
- Total diameter 32 mm (14 lignes)
- Total thickness 6.9 mm
- Number of parts 381
- Number of jewels 40
- Minimum power reserve guaranteed 70 h
- Frequency of balance wheel 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Case
- 18-carat yellow gold case, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback, screw-locked crown, caseback engraved with “Limited Edition”, water resistant to 50 m.
- Case thickness: 12.4 mm
Dial
- 18-carat yellow gold dial with vertical satin finishing, yellow gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
Bracelet
- 18-carat yellow gold bracelet with AP folding clasp.
Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph / 42 mm Ref 26238BC.OO.2000BC.01
Functions
- Flyback chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds and date.
Movement specifications
- Selfwinding Calibre 4404
- Total diameter 32 mm (14 lignes)
- Total thickness 8 mm
- Number of parts 433
- Number of jewels 40
- Minimum power reserve guaranteed 70 h
- Frequency of balance wheel 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Case
- 18-carat white gold case, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback, screw-locked crown, caseback engraved with “Limited Edition”, water resistant to 100 m.
- Case thickness: 15.2 mm
Dial
- 18-carat white gold dial with vertical satin finishing, white gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
Bracelet
- 18-carat white gold bracelet with 18-carat white gold AP folding clasp and interchangeable system.
- Additional black rubber interchangeable strap.
Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph / 42 mm Ref 26238BA.OO.2000BA.01
Functions
- Flyback chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds and date.
Movement specifications
- Selfwinding Calibre 4404
- Total diameter 32 mm (14 lignes)
- Total thickness 8 mm
- Number of parts 433
- Number of jewels 40
- Minimum power reserve guaranteed 70 h
- Frequency of balance wheel 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Case
- 18-carat yellow gold case, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback, screw-locked crown, caseback engraved with “Limited Edition”, water resistant to 100 m.
- Case thickness: 15.2 mm
Dial
- 18-carat yellow gold dial with vertical satin finishing, yellow gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
Bracelet
- 18-carat yellow gold bracelet with 18-carat yellow gold AP folding clasp and interchangeable system.
- Additional black rubber interchangeable strap.
Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph / 41 mm Ref 26240SA.OO.1320SA.01
Functions
- Flyback chronograph, hours, minutes and small seconds.
Movement specifications
- Selfwinding Calibre 4409
- Total diameter 32 mm (14 lignes)
- Total thickness 6.9 mm
- Number of parts 381
- Number of jewels 40
- Minimum power reserve guaranteed 70 h
- Frequency of balance wheel 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
Case
- Stainless steel case, bezel, crown and push-pieces in 18-carat yellow gold, glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback, screw-locked crown, caseback engraved with “Unique Piece”, water resistant to 50 m.
- Case thickness: 12.4 mm
Dial
- 18-carat yellow gold dial with black PVD treatment and vertical satin finishing, yellow gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
Bracelet
- Stainless steel bracelet with 18-carat yellow gold links and 18-carat yellow gold AP folding clasp.
About Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet is the oldest fine watchmaking manufacturer still in the hands of its founding families (Audemars and Piguet). Based in Le Brassus since 1875, the company has nurtured generations of talented craftspeople who have continuously developed new skills and techniques, broadening their savoir-faire to set rule-breaking trends. In the Vallée de Joux, at the heart of the Swiss Jura, Audemars Piguet has created numerous masterpieces, testament to the Manufacture’s ancestral savoir-faire and forward-thinking spirit. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible and building bridges between different creative worlds, Audemars Piguet has been able to explore new horizons and build an inspired community. Seek Beyond. — www.audemarspiguet.com
About 1017 ALYX 9SM
1017 ALYX 9SM is a foundation built on the undercurrent. Designed by Matthew Williams, the brand is built on the concept of high-quality materials mixed with subversive culture and modern craftsmanship. Founded in New York City and relocated to Italy, Matthew combines influences from his upbringing in California and New York with his commitment to detail, innovation and desire to push new ideas forward. Focusing on craftsmanship, technique, and sustainable fabrication, the brand presents full men’s and women’s collections that seek to unite technical innovation with human emotion. — www.alyxstudio.com
About Matthew M. Williams
Raised in California, Chicago-born creative director Matthew M. Williams has worked with top talents from the worlds of art, music, photography and fashion throughout his decade-long career, shaping a refined aesthetic universe grounded in creative repurpose, innovation and craftsmanship.
A keen interest in the creative process of fashion has led Williams towards extensive research and development into garment construction and greater fashion philosophy. Starting with his debut women’s ALYX Autumn Winter 2015 collection, the comprehensive ready-to-wear, accessories, and shoe collections have grown to include full men’s and women’s collections, as well as collaborations with the likes of Nike, Dior, Moncler, and Mackintosh. Williams’ inclusion of utilitarian influence, his work within the entertainment industry, and his in-depth knowledge of technology, craftsmanship and fabrication unite to inform a unique perspective of modern fashion. Today Williams lives and works in Milan, Italy.