Piaget’s Position in the Luxury Watch Landscape
Switzerland’s renowned watchmaker, Piaget, often humorously referred to as “the other nice ultra-thin perpetual calendar watch,” holds a distinctive place in the luxury watch market. Despite the mechanical excellence of Piaget’s timepieces, they tend to be overshadowed by competitors like Audemars Piguet, Bulgari, and Vacheron Constantin.
The Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin: A Refined Choice
Piaget’s Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin, exemplified by the 18k rose gold and green reference G0A48006, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to refined craftsmanship. Introduced at Watches & Wonders 2023, this watch showcases Piaget’s architectural prowess.
Variety in Materials and Pricing
In 2023, Piaget expanded the Polo collection with a steel-cased version, offering a more affordable alternative. The steel model comes with a matching bracelet, presenting an enticing option at a USD 16,000 lower price point than its rose gold counterpart.
A Legacy of Ultra-Thin Movements
Piaget’s focus on ultra-thin movements predates the trend, with the brand actively advocating for slim designs even before Bulgari entered the scene. The 1255P automatic movement, while not the thinnest, boasts a mere 4mm thickness, powered by a blued-gold micro-rotor.
Elegance in Design and Functionality
The 1255P movement drives the Polo Perpetual Calendar’s display, featuring a full perpetual calendar, leap year, month, date, day of the week, and a petite moonphase indicator. The dial layout, with Genta-esque horizontal lines, is both attractive and practical.
Size and Water Resistance
Measuring 8.65mm thick in a 42mm wide Polo case, the watch wears comfortably with a sporty yet luxurious appeal. However, its water resistance is limited to 30 meters, possibly due to the uniquely shaped sapphire crystal.
The Quirky Appeal of Piaget’s Design
Piaget’s Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin collection strikes a balance between beauty and practicality, offering a unique luxury experience. While not the thinnest in its category, the watch’s slim and comfortable profile, along with quirky design elements, makes it a standout choice.
Closing Thoughts and Price
Piaget’s new Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin collection, priced at USD 76,000 for the 18k rose gold version, combines beauty with practicality. Despite not being the most obvious choice, it stands out for its refined craftsmanship and maison caché, making it a compelling option in the competitive luxury watch market.