Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Blue Guilloché dial - 14894BC

Origin

Making up one-third of the appropriately nicknamed ‘Holy Trinity’, Audemars Piguet exists in the upper echelon of horology with a history dating back to 1875. During the late 19th century, Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet were two watchmakers who initially were operating independently of each other in Switzerland. However, the pair decided they were stronger together and so, in 1875, joined forces.

Although many of us think of the Royal Oak when thinking of the brand, Audemars Piguet has a legacy stretching a lot further than a steel sports watch created in the 1970s. Highly complicated creations as well as thoroughly distinguished time only watches make up a huge proportion of the Audemars Piguet history, offering an overriding sense of traditionality.  One such range in the modern era is the Jules Audemars collection, named after one of the original founders. Embodying the core philosophy of Audemars Piguet, the Jules Audemars collection combines comfortable, extremely well-proportioned cases with traditionally-styled dials, in an understated yet thoroughly compelling manner. Watches in this range typically are fitted with classic hour markers such as Breguet numerals, thin batons or Roman numerals, sitting on top of equally timeless dials such as enamel, fine guilloché, sunbursts, and multi-layered constructions.

Epitomising the Audemars Piguet brand, the Jules Audemars collection houses numerous different varieties of watches from tourbillons, minute repeaters, simple time-only watches and everything in between. Although undoubtedly creations by Audemars Piguet, one thing you can be certain not to see in this range is any sign of octagonal bezels and integrated bracelets; and that’s what makes this range so appealing.

The Watch

Released during the 1990s, here we have the Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Reference 14894BC. This uncommon watch is a brilliant example of the underrated classics that can be found within the neo-vintage side of watch collecting. Measuring just 34mm in width, this classically sized watch is an understated beauty that perfectly delivers on the traditional Audemars Piguet aesthetic through a stylistic approach. It starts with its case. Incredibly slender (another trait of quintessential Audemars Piguet watches), with a small crown at three, and an equally thin domed bezel, this white gold case is the embodiment of the exemplary Audemars Piguet watchmaking philosophy. A minimalist case is an ideal decision when dealing with a smaller dress watch as they allow for a more reserved wrist presence whilst drawing attention to the dial.

Speaking of the dial, this 14894BC’s dial is most certainly a special, seldom seen example. With a mix of classic watchmaking features and finishes, this is a dial with an extreme sense of balance. Seen surrounding a central guilloché pattern is opaline, finished in a deep blue tone. This beautiful area of the dial houses applied matching white gold markers for the watch with idiosyncratic Breguet numerals used for the twelve, three, six and nine, paired with thin baton markers for the remaining hours. Once more, this use of old-world watchmaking techniques is delivered in such a way that appeals immensely to the contemporary wrist. The 14894BC’s hands are only made up of hours and minutes and are presented in a slight leaf-like style, further adding a touch more personality.

The appeal of this Jules Audemars 14894BC lies in its ability to provide understated luxury whilst upholding the pedigree of the Audemars Piguet legacy.

Proof that often less is certainly more…

The Movement

Powering this inconspicuous dress watch is the Audemars Piguet 2080. This manual wind movement is based on the Frederic Piguet calibre 8.10 and offers 48 hours of power. Measuring just an impressive 2mm in thickness, this movement plays a vital role in allowing the watch to provide a slender profile and fantastic comfort to any wrist it’s fitted to. Also, a closed caseback features on this watch to aid wearability in favour of a look at the movement.

How It Wears

The proportions of this 14894BC translate to a pure delight on the wrist. Thanks to its graceful measurements, this watch is a sharp option for wrist sizes ranging from petite to average. Even though the case is made from precious metal, it’s not uncommon to forget the watch is even fitted to the wrist. A clear, pure dial, a gorgeous blend of traditional dial techniques and those whimsical Breguet numerals. This Jules Audemars watch is exactly what’s desirable from a tasteful dress watch. It’s there when you want it, and not when you don’t; one cannot ask for much more from a formal dress watch.

Condition

This Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Blue reference 14894BC dates from the 1990s and is presented in mint condition with only hairline scratches. The watch is fitted to a perfectly paired Mr Watchley watch strap. The watch comes with it’s original AP buckle, AP alligator strap and AP service card.

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

No stock kept on site

* Every watch is delivered in a Mr WATCHLEY Membrane Protection Box for a safe transportation in addition to its original set *