Audemars Piguet Star wheel - Ref. 25720BA - Full original set

The Watch

The Audemars Piguet reference 25720 belongs to the celebrated Star Wheel lineage, one of the manufacture’s most imaginative complications of the late twentieth century. Produced in 1993, this example comes from the early years of Audemars Piguet’s revival of the historic wandering-hours display — a concept dating back to 17th-century horology that the brand reinterpreted with a distinctly modern aesthetic.

Rather than traditional hands, the time is indicated by three rotating sapphire discs bearing hour numerals. These orbit the dial and traverse a curved minute scale, creating the characteristic wandering-hours display. The result is both mechanically sophisticated and visually dynamic, offering a constantly evolving dial animation that has become the signature of the Star Wheel series.

This example is housed in a 36 mm yellow gold case that strikes a particularly elegant balance between classical proportions and contemporary presence. The watch presents in superb condition, appearing unpolished with deep, crisp hallmarks visible throughout. The case retains strong definition with sharp transitions between polished and brushed surfaces, reflecting careful ownership and excellent preservation over more than three decades.

Importantly, the watch is offered as a complete original set including outer box, inner box, warranty papers, original Audemars Piguet strap, original AP buckle, instruction manual, and an Extract from the Archives — a level of completeness increasingly difficult to encounter with early Star Wheel models.

The Movement

Powering the reference 25720 is the Audemars Piguet calibre 2224/2812, an automatic movement combining a refined base calibre with the wandering-hours module responsible for the satellite hour discs. The system requires precise adjustment to ensure smooth disc rotation and exact alignment along the minute arc.

This calibre reflects Audemars Piguet’s approach during the early 1990s: technically adventurous while maintaining the finishing standards and mechanical reliability expected from a haute horlogerie manufacture.

The accompanying Extract from the Archives further confirms the watch’s authenticity and historical continuity.

How It Wears

On the wrist, the Star Wheel delivers a distinctive yet refined presence. The constantly shifting hour discs provide subtle animation that rewards close observation, while the absence of traditional hands immediately distinguishes the watch from conventional designs.

The 36 mm yellow gold case offers excellent wearability by both vintage and modern standards. Fitted with its original Audemars Piguet strap and buckle, the watch retains its intended aesthetic balance and comfort, preserving the authentic character envisioned by the manufacture.

Elegant yet unconventional, it bridges classical complication with contemporary design in a way few watches achieve.

Condition & Set

The watch is preserved in superb overall condition, presenting close to new. The case appears unpolished with deep hallmarks and strong original finishing throughout — a particularly desirable attribute for collectors.

It is accompanied by a complete original set:

• Original outer box

• Original inner box

• Warranty papers (Sold in 1994)

• Original Audemars Piguet strap

• Original Audemars Piguet buckle

• Instruction manual

• Extract from the Archives

Complete Star Wheel examples from this period, especially in such well-preserved condition, are becoming increasingly scarce.

Origin

The Star Wheel series reflects a particularly creative chapter in Audemars Piguet’s modern history. During the late 1980s and early 1990s, the manufacture explored alternative time displays that drew inspiration from historical horology while embracing contemporary design language.

Produced in 1993, this reference 25720 belongs to the early wave of that revival. Star Wheel watches were never mass-produced and often appealed to knowledgeable collectors rather than mainstream buyers. As appreciation for late twentieth-century independent and experimental watchmaking continues to grow, well-preserved examples with full accessories have become increasingly sought after.

Combining strong originality, excellent condition, full documentation, and a fascinating complication, this example represents a compelling opportunity within Audemars Piguet’s distinctive Star Wheel lineage.

If you desire to take a closer look at this precious timepiece, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment. We are based in Ghent, Belgium.

Reference	25720BA.OO.A002XX.02
Movement	Automatic
Caliber	Calibre 2224/2812
Dial	Wondering hours
Size (Case)	36 mm
Material (Case)	Yellow gold
Bracelet	Mr Watchley & original AP (New)
Buckle	Original AP yellow gold
Condition	Excellent
Year	1993
Papers	Yes
Box	Yes
Warranty	2 years