Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked 2026: A New Generation Begins
AP Signals a Clear Generational Shift
Audemars Piguet has introduced the Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Openworked, powered by the new Calibre 7139. This release marks a significant milestone for the Royal Oak's most demanding complication, representing a confident step forward in both design and engineering.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 9.5mm |
| Material | Titanium + Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) |
| Movement | Calibre 7139 (Openworked Perpetual Calendar) |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours |
| Water Resistance | 50m |
| Price | CHF 180,200 (excluding taxes) |
Case and Bracelet Innovation
At just 9.5mm thick, this perpetual calendar feels slimmer and more wearable than earlier openworked Royal Oak QPs. The construction combines lightweight titanium with AP's proprietary Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG), used for the bezel, caseback frame, and bracelet studs.
The satin-brushed titanium contrasts with mirror-polished BMG flashes of a liquid-like glow. When worn, the watch feels substantial without being heavy – a "technical" piece, not a precious burden.
The Openworked Dial
The sapphire dial exposes Calibre 7139 while retaining surprisingly good legibility. The layout follows a logical European order:
- 9 o'clock: Day with integrated 24-hour indicator
- 12 o'clock: Date
- 3 o'clock: Month and leap year
- 6 o'clock: Astronomical moon phase
- Inner flange: Week numbers
Revolutionary Crown-Only Adjustment
The coolest feature is the all-in-one crown system for all functions. No recessed correctors, no tools, no anxiety. The four crown positions allow:
- Normal winding
- Calendar adjustment (clockwise for date, counter-clockwise for month/leap year)
- Time setting
- Special correction position for day, week, and moon phase
Calibre 7139: The Heart of the Watch
Based on the ultra-thin automatic Calibre 7121 found in the classic Royal Oak Jumbo, this movement integrates all perpetual calendar functions into a single layer, drawing on AP's RD#2 research. At just 4.1mm thick, it beats at 28,800 vibrations/hour.
Finishing is classic Audemars Piguet: hand-chamfered bridges with sharp internal angles, satin brushing, circular graining, and polished accents. The openworked rotor, barrel bridge, and balance bridge take on a pink gold tone, adding warm color to the otherwise monochrome movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this compare to the previous Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar?
The new model is thinner (9.5mm vs 11mm), lighter thanks to titanium/BMG construction, and features the revolutionary crown-only adjustment system that eliminates the need for special tools.
Is the openworked dial difficult to read?
Despite its skeletonized design, AP has achieved excellent legibility. The smoked subdials for calendar indications float above the movement, and pink gold hands with luminescent material ensure readability in various lighting conditions.
How often does the perpetual calendar need adjustment?
A properly set perpetual calendar only needs correction once every four years (for the leap year). The crown-only system makes any necessary adjustments remarkably simple.
Source: Monochrome Watches, February 6, 2026
Explore more: Guide to Complicated Watches | Audemars Piguet History