Founded in 1874 in the small village of La Côte-aux-Fées by Georges-Édouard Piaget,
Piaget initially focused on crafting high-precision movements for other renowned watchmakers. It was not until the mid-20th century that Piaget transitioned to producing its own timepieces, quickly establishing itself as a pioneer in ultra-thin movements and unique designs. The brand's dedication to pushing the boundaries of horological possibility has led to numerous record-breaking achievements, solidifying its reputation as a master of slim and sophisticated watchmaking. This history of excellence and innovation sets the stage for understanding the significance of their latest creation, the Piaget Polo Flying Tourbillon Moonphase watch.
The Piaget Polo collection, first introduced in 1979, was a bold departure from the traditional designs of the time. This collection is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit and commitment to blending luxury with sportiness. Known for its distinctive cushion-shaped case and integrated bracelet, the Polo line became an icon of its era, embodying a sense of relaxed luxury that was both novel and appealing. Over the decades, the Polo has evolved, incorporating various complications and materials while maintaining its core identity. The latest addition to this illustrious line, the Polo Flying Tourbillon Moonphase, is a culmination of Piaget's long-standing expertise in ultra-thin movements and its continuous drive for innovation.
Courtesy of Piaget
The new Piaget Polo Flying Tourbillon Moonphase is a marvel of contemporary watchmaking. Its 44mm case is crafted from titanium, a material celebrated for its lightweight and durable properties. This choice of material not only enhances the watch's comfort on the wrist but also underscores Piaget's commitment to using advanced materials in its creations. The titanium case is not only lightweight but also hypoallergenic, adding to the overall wearability of the watch. The blend of grey and blue hues within the design further accentuates the modern aesthetic, making it a versatile piece suitable for various occasions. The combination of strength and lightness in the titanium case makes it an ideal choice for a watch that is both technically complex and intended for regular wear.
The openwork dial of the watch is a captivating feature that immediately draws the eye. It showcases the intricate inner workings of the 642P ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical movement, a testament to Piaget's mastery in creating complex yet slim calibers. The blue color of the dial provides a striking contrast against the titanium case, creating a visually appealing and harmonious design. The openwork design is not just a stylistic choice; it allows the wearer to appreciate the intricate dance of the movement's components, offering a glimpse into the mechanical artistry that powers the watch. This skeletonized dial is a celebration of the movement’s architecture, revealing the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation.
Courtesy of Piaget
The flying tourbillon at 12 o'clock is a prominent feature, its rotation a constant reminder of the technical prowess housed within the watch. The tourbillon, originally invented to counteract the effects of gravity on a watch's accuracy, is a hallmark of high-end watchmaking, and its "flying" variant, which appears to float without an upper bridge, adds an extra layer of visual intrigue. The tourbillon cage itself is made from titanium, further reducing the overall weight of the movement and enhancing its performance. This intricate mechanism is not only functional but also a visual spectacle, drawing the eye and captivating the observer with its mesmerizing rotation.
At 6 o'clock, the moon phase indicator adds another layer of complexity and visual interest to the dial. The astronomical moon phase complication is accurate and requires minimal adjustment over time, a testament to the precision of the 642P movement. The depiction of the moon on the dial is detailed and elegant, adding a poetic touch to the otherwise technical design. The inclusion of this complication not only enhances the watch’s functionality but also adds a touch of romanticism, connecting the wearer to the celestial cycles that have inspired timekeeping for centuries.
Courtesy of Piaget
The watch is equipped with an interchangeable rubber bracelet, adding to its sporty and contemporary appeal. This allows for easy customization and ensures the watch remains comfortable and stylish in different settings. Additionally, the watch comes with a blue alligator strap, offering a more formal and refined option. The folding buckle, made from titanium, ensures a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. The ability to switch between the rubber and alligator straps means the watch can transition seamlessly from casual to formal occasions, making it a versatile addition to any collection.
Turning the watch over reveals a small sapphire crystal case back, offering a glimpse into the meticulously finished movement. The sapphire crystal is scratch-resistant and provides a clear view of the movement's components, all of which are finished to the highest standards. The case back is a window into the heart of the watch, allowing the wearer to appreciate the complexity and beauty of the 642P movement. The finishing touches, such as the blued screws and the Côtes de Genève decoration, are visible through the sapphire crystal, showcasing Piaget's dedication to both form and function.
The 642P movement is an ultra-thin, hand-wound mechanical movement that powers the watch. It measures just 4mm in thickness, a remarkable achievement given the complexity of the tourbillon and moon phase complications. The movement features 23 jewels and operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, ensuring accurate timekeeping. With a power reserve of approximately 40 hours, the watch is designed to keep running reliably even when not worn for a day or two. The meticulous finishing of the movement includes blued screws, circular Côtes de Genève, and hand-beveled bridges, all of which are visible through the sapphire crystal case back.
Courtesy of Piaget
The movement's technical features, such as the titanium carriage and the flying tourbillon, highlight Piaget's commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. The use of titanium in the carriage reduces the weight of the tourbillon, enhancing its efficiency and accuracy. The flying tourbillon, supported only from below, gives the illusion of floating, adding to the watch's visual appeal. The astronomical moon phase indicator is another example of the movement's technical sophistication, requiring adjustment only once every 122 years. The precision and craftsmanship of the 642P movement are a testament to Piaget's expertise in creating ultra-thin yet highly complex calibers.
The design of the Piaget Polo Flying Tourbillon Moonphase is a harmonious blend of form and function. The 44mm cushion-shaped case is both bold and elegant, fitting comfortably on the wrist despite its size. The openwork dial, with its blue and grey color scheme, is both striking and legible. The hands and hour markers are coated with luminescent material, ensuring readability in low-light conditions. The overall design is modern and sophisticated, reflecting Piaget's commitment to creating watches that are both technically advanced and aesthetically pleasing.
Courtesy of Piaget
The watch's water resistance of 10 bar (approximately 100 meters) adds to its practicality, making it suitable for everyday wear. While not designed for deep-sea diving, the watch can withstand splashes and brief immersions in water, adding to its versatility. The combination of a titanium case, sapphire crystal, and robust movement ensures that the watch is durable and can withstand the rigors of daily use. The practical features of the watch, combined with its luxurious design, make it a standout piece in any collection.
The Piaget Polo Flying Tourbillon Moonphase is priced at $99,000, reflecting its status as a high-end luxury watch. While this price point places it in the upper echelon of the watch market, it is justified by the watch's technical complexity, the use of premium materials, and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation. Availability is limited, making it an exclusive piece for discerning collectors. The watch is available through authorized Piaget boutiques and select retailers worldwide.
Case: 44mm diameter. Cushion-shaped. Constructed from titanium. Water-resistant to 10 bar. Small sapphire crystal case back.
Movement: 642P ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical movement. 4mm thickness. 23 jewels. 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. Approximately 40-hour power reserve. Flying tourbillon at 12 o'clock, astronomical moon phase indicator at 6 o'clock. Titanium carriage. Rectangular shape. 28.6 x 22.4 mm diameter. Blued screws, Circular Côtes de Genève. Bridges and mainplate are circular-grained, drawn and beveled by hand.
Dial: Blue openwork.
Strap: Interchangeable rubber bracelet. Additional blue alligator strap. Triple folding clasp.
Price: $99,000
Reference Number: G0A49080
Notes: Combination of a flying tourbillon and moon phase complication in an ultra-thin movement.