What is the new Audemars Piguet (AP) Neo Frame Jumping Hour?
The Jumping Hour is the debut model in AP’s new Neo Frame collection.
“This new timepiece is a nod to Audemars Piguet’s pioneering role in developing the first jumping hour wristwatches in the 1920s. Back then, the glass was so fragile that it had to be protected by metal. Today, it is in sapphire, which takes centre stage.” – Sebastian Vivas, Director, Museum and Heritage, Audemars Piguet.
Also Read: Audemars Piguet inaugurates a new manufacture in Le Brassus
Is it a historically inspired model?
Yes. The Jumping Hour is based on AP’s pre-model 1271, a watch from 1929 that drew “inspiration from the Streamline Moderne movement, also known as Pacquebot or Ocean Liner style – a late branch of Art Deco.” Founded in 1875, AP has a rich back catalogue of timepieces from which it can draw inspiration.
What are its dial features?
It features a black-PVD treated sapphire dial. The apertures for the hours (12 o’clock) and minutes (6 o’clock) are pink-gold toned and microblasted.
“Despite its apparent simplicity, the sapphire dial demanded considerable work and bespoke assembly processes. While the original pre-model 1271 featured metal dials (in various gold tones or platinum), this reinterpretation meets modern standards by replacing the metal dial with a sapphire crystal while ensuring water resistance. Typically, this is achieved by pressing the crystal into a bezel, but the Neo Frame Jumping Hour lacks metal framing at 12 and 6 o’clock, leaving the sapphire exposed.”
What are its case and strap features?
Its rectangular case is made from 18K pink gold and measures 32.6 mm (width) * 34 mm (length) * 8.8 mm thickness. The caseback is made from 18K pink gold and features a sapphire crystal. Water resistant up to 20 metres. The watch comes with a black calfskin leather strap fitted with an 18K pink gold AP clasp.
“To ensure 20m water resistance, the dial plate is bonded to the sapphire crystal and then screwed into the case – a technique developed specifically for this model.”
What kind of movement powers the Jumping Hour?
It is powered by Calibre 7122, an in-house automatic movement that drives the instantaneous jumping hours and trailing minutes. It measures 29.6 mm or 12 ¾ lignes (diameter) * 4 mm (thickness), comprises of 293 parts, 43 jewels, beats at a modern rate of 4 Hz or 28,800 vph, and has a power reserve of 52 hours (minimum guaranteed). Calibre 7122 is based on Calibre 7121 – used in AP’s Royal Oak “Jumbo” models.
“Calibre 7122 features a patented shock-absorbing system that mechanically prevents hour jumps in case of impact, making the watch suitable for everyday life. To enhance shock resistance, the hour disc is crafted in titanium, while the minute disc which is displayed progressively through the aperture, is made of aluminium.”
What do we think?
Unlike Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin – its Holy Trinity brethren – Audemars Piguet’s five watch collections (six if we now count the Neo Frame) have a strong emphasis on the Royal Oak. These include the Royal Oak, Royal Oak Offshore, Royal Oak Concept, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, and the RE[Master], the latter historically inspired limited edition models of which there have been two so far. The Gerald Genta designed Royal Oak is AP’s biggest strength and also its biggest weakness. The Royal Oak is what comes to mind when watch enthusiasts and collectors think of the brand.
This is why the all-new Neo Frame collection is such a Big Deal. I like the Jumping Hour; at least based on images and supporting information, and I look forward to seeing it in the flesh. AP after all has a back catalogue that is among the envy of most watch brands. More than the watch itself, I am excited for the Neo Frame collection and where AP goes with it. Along with the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, it will add diversity to their catalogue. Exciting times ahead for them.
AP has unveiled several new models that include the Royal Oak, Royal Oak Offshore, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, and the 150 Heritage pocket watch. Stay tuned as we gradually cover several of these models.
Additional Details
Name: Neo Frame Jumping Hour
Reference: 15245OR.OO.D206VE.01
Price: Swiss Franc (CHF) 56,300
Warranty: 2-Years. Extendable to 5-Years if the watch is purchased through the brand’s authorised network. Details on their website.
Please visit the brand’s website and Instagram page for more information.
