It started out as a concept watch. Now it’s available on the market.
Introduction
Piaget has always been a pioneer in the field of ultra-thin watches. Back in 1957 they introduced the legendary caliber 9P. The caliber had a mindblowing thickness of only 2mm.
But that’s not all. Three years later, in 1960, they introduced the caliber 12P. This movement was equipped with a micro-rotor and with its thickness at 2.3mm it was the thinnest automatic movement ever made.
Fast forward a couple of decades to the year 2018. The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept was introduced at SIHH. And it measured 2mm. In total. Yes, with case and crystal and the whole shebang.
But the watch was only a concept watch. Until now.
The Basics
Well, to be frank, there is nothing basic about this watch. The case is formed to be a part of the movement, it features a unique integrated winding crown, an ultra-thin crystal that measures only 0.2mm and since it has 40h of power reserve some new constructions for the for the barrel and energy regulation were necessary to invent.
It took them 6 years to develope this movement and it is a true engineering masterpiece.
The straps are also ultra-thin. The alligator strap measures only 1.5mm in thickness thus it matches the overall slimness of the watch perfectly.
On top of that, the watch is customizable. Each customer can choose the colour of the bridge and dial, the finish of the hands and the main plate and select straps. There are more than 10,000 different configurations. So basically you don’t have to be afraid to bump into someone wearing the exact same watch…
Personal Thoughts
Well, what else is there to say about this mindblowing piece of horology?
It has certainly got me lost for words. However, even though this is something else, I don’t know how comfortable I would feel wearing it. I guess for my personal taste, it’s simply too thin.
With that said, I don’t believe anyone will break this impressive record by Piaget anytime soon. And it will be interesting to see how they will try to top this achievement in the future.
Specifications of the Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept
Brand: Piaget
Model: Altiplano Ultimate Concept
Diameter: 41mm
Thickness: 2.0mm
Case Material: Cobalt alloy
Dial Color: Customizable
Water Resistance: 3 bar (approx. 30m)
Strap/Bracelet: Alligator leather with Kevlar insert or textile strap on pin buckle
Caliber: 900P-UC
Functions: Hours and minutes
Power Reserve: 40 hours
Winding: Hand wound
Frequency: 28,800 vph
Jewels: 13
Price: CHF 410,000
