Audemars Piguet Unveils the Neo Frame Collection: A Bold Leap Forward
A watch brand's daring departure from tradition! Audemars Piguet, a renowned name in luxury timepieces, has unveiled a collection that will leave watch enthusiasts in awe. Introducing the Neo Frame, a collection that pushes the boundaries of design and innovation, starting with the Neo Frame Jumping Hour.
But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn't just a new watch; it's a new era for Audemars Piguet. With a fresh case design and a novel movement, the Neo Frame Jumping Hour is a departure from their recent product lines. Yet, it draws inspiration from the brand's rich history, particularly the Streamline Modern movement of the late 1920s and early 1930s.
A New Collection, A New Direction. The Neo Frame collection is a significant step for the brand, marking a new path forward after 150 years of horological excellence. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour, with its 18k pink gold case, is a mere 24.6mm wide and 34mm long, excluding the lugs. It's a compact timepiece, but its size is deceptive. The rectangular case houses a round 29.6mm movement, a modified version of the Caliber 7121, now self-winding and featuring a jump hour complication with 43 jewels and a 52-hour power reserve.
A Nod to the Past, A Step into the Future. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour pays homage to the brand's pre-model watches from the 1920s, particularly the pre-model 1271 from 1929. This vintage piece, with its distinctive ribbed lines on the brancards, inspired the new model's unique design. But the Neo Frame is not just a vintage recreation; it's a modern interpretation, with a sapphire crystal front and gold-toned apertures displaying the jumping hour and trailing minutes.
Controversy Corner: Is this a respectful homage or a risky departure from the brand's heritage? The Neo Frame's design is a bold move, especially with its limited water resistance of 20m. The case construction, with no crosspiece and a flat sapphire crystal front, is a technical challenge, but does it sacrifice durability for aesthetics?
The Neo Frame collection is just beginning, with more models to come. The [RE]Master collection, meanwhile, will continue with future limited editions. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour is not limited and retails for $71,200, offering a unique blend of historical inspiration and contemporary innovation.
A Watch for the Connoisseurs. The Neo Frame Jumping Hour might be a surprise, especially with its size. However, it's a modern interpretation of a classic, akin to a large-size Cartier Tank Must. The dial, with its black PVD-treated sapphire and gold-toned apertures, hints at its contemporary nature while leaving room for potential vintage-inspired variations.
Audemars Piguet's Neo Frame Jumping Hour is a watch that demands attention, and its collection promises to be a conversation starter. Will it be a hit with traditionalists or a favorite among those seeking something unique? Only time will tell.
Technical Specifications:
Brand: Audemars Piguet
Model: Neo Frame Jumping Hour
Reference: 15245OR
Dimensions: 24.6mm x 34mm (excluding lugs)
Thickness: 8.8mm
Case Material: 18k Pink Gold
Dial: Black PVD-treated sapphire, gold-toned micro blasted apertures
Display: Digital with jump hour and trailing minutes
Lume: None
Water Resistance: 20m
Strap: Black calfskin leather with 18-carat pink gold AP clasp
Movement: Calibre 7122
Functions: Jumping hours, trailing minutes
Diameter: 29.6mm
Thickness: 4mm
Power Reserve: 52 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4Hz
Jewels: 43
Price: $71,200
Availability: June 2026 at boutiques and AP Houses
Limited Edition: No
