Audemars Piguet Unveils a New Chapter in Perpetual Calendars with the Calibre 7138
2025 is a year of anniversaries for watch brands. Vacheron Constantin celebrates 270 years, Breguet celebrates 250 years, and Audemars Piguet is celebrating 150 years. That is a lot of horological legacy to celebrate this year. And Audemars Piguet is kicking off their anniversary strong, introducing an innovative update to its perpetual calendar lineup. With the launch of the all-new Calibre 7138, the Swiss watchmaker enhances precision and ease of use while maintaining the craftsmanship and design that have defined its pieces.
A Technological Leap
Perpetual calendars have been a hallmark of Audemars Piguet for decades, but the Calibre 7138 brings a new level of refinement. The standout feature is that now all calendar functions can be adjusted directly through the crown, eliminating the need for additional pushers. This makes handling the watch far more intuitive and reduces potential wear from adjustments.
Technically speaking, the movement is impressive. It spans 29.6mm in diameter and 4.1mm in thickness, composed of 422 parts and 41 jewels. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, it delivers improved accuracy and a 55-hour power reserve—marking a significant step forward in reliability.
The Evolution of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is an icon, and its latest versions, references 26674ST (stainless steel) and 26674SG (18-carat sand gold), elevate its status even further. While the watch remains similar in design, including retaining the classic Genta look and Grand Tapisserie dial, the upgraded movement enhances its everyday wearability. The stainless steel version offers a refined sporty appeal, while the sand gold model exudes a vintage-inspired charm that I very much like
The Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar
For those seeking a more contemporary design, the new Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar (reference 26494BC) provides a nice alternative. While I may have been skeptical of the Code 11.59 when it was first released, at this point I am fully on board. And the 26494BC is a great addition to the lineup. Crafted white gold, it features a deep blue dial with an intricate texture, housed a more traditional round case (with octagonal midcase of course).
This model benefits from the same technological advancements as the Royal Oak versions, so if you are not a Royal Oak fan (but who isn’t) there is an alternative option.
Pricing & Availability
With high horology comes high pricing. The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in stainless steel is priced at CHF 109,300, while the sand gold model costs CHF 130,000. Pricing for the Code 11.59 model is CHF 109.300.
Initially, only 150 pieces of each model will be released (with a unique 150-year anniversary rotor), with a permanent production to follow. Learn more at Audemars Piguet’s website.