Description

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Skeleton "Cactus Jack" Ref. 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 is a remarkable fusion of haute horology and contemporary culture. This limited edition timepiece, born from a collaboration between Audemars Piguet and Travis Scott's Cactus Jack label, exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking tailored for the modern man.

Overview

Released in 2023, the "Cactus Jack" Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is limited to just 200 pieces, underscoring its exclusivity. This 41mm watch is distinguished by its pioneering use of brown ceramic—a first for Audemars Piguet—imbuing the piece with a unique and contemporary aesthetic. The openworked dial offers a mesmerizing view into the intricate mechanics of the perpetual calendar complication, harmoniously blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements. 

Design and Craftsmanship

The watch's brown ceramic case and bezel are complemented by a matching integrated bracelet, all exhibiting a meticulous satin-brushed finish with polished bevels. The openworked dial reveals the complexity of the perpetual calendar mechanism, featuring sub-dials with rose gold-toned accents and luminescent coatings in green and blue hues, enhancing both aesthetics and legibility. The iconic octagonal bezel, secured by eight hexagonal screws, pays homage to the Royal Oak's heritage, while the overall design reflects a modern reinterpretation of a classic. 

Movement and Performance

At the heart of this timepiece lies the self-winding Caliber 5135, an in-house movement renowned for its precision and reliability. Operating at a frequency of 19,800 vibrations per hour, it offers a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The movement's openworked architecture not only showcases the meticulous finishing and decoration but also allows for an appreciation of the perpetual calendar's intricate functionality, including day, date, month, astronomical moon, and week of the year indications. 

Features and Complications

The perpetual calendar complication is the highlight of this timepiece, accurately displaying the day, date, month, leap year, and moon phases, requiring no manual adjustment until the year 2100. The astronomical moon at 6 o'clock adds a poetic touch, while the week indicator on the outer chapter ring provides additional temporal context. Despite its complexity, the dial remains legible, with luminescent hands and hour markers ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions. The watch is water-resistant up to 20 meters, offering protection against minor water exposure. 

Specifications

Case

• Material: Brown ceramic

• Diameter: 41 mm

• Thickness: 9.9 mm

• Finish: Satin-brushed with polished bevels

Dial

• Color: Openworked

• Markers: Rose gold-toned with luminescent coating

• Hands: Rose gold-toned with luminescent coating

• Distinctive Elements: Sub-dials with green and blue luminescent details

Bracelet/Strap

• Material: Brown ceramic

• Width: Tapered design for ergonomic comfort

• Clasp Type: AP folding clasp

• Adjustability: Integrated links for a customized fit

Movement

• Caliber: 5135

• Power Reserve: Approximately 40 hours

• Frequency: 19,800 vibrations per hour (2.75 Hz)

• Jewels: 38

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Skeleton "Cactus Jack" Ref. 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 stands as a testament to the brand's innovative spirit and dedication to horological excellence. Its unique design, coupled with the intricate perpetual calendar complication, makes it a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This timepiece not only honors the legacy of the Royal Oak but also ushers it into a contemporary context, appealing to a new generation of watch aficionados.