Skeletons on the wrist

[Demonoid]

Note: Pic heavy.


The Pinnacle of Horology: Audemars Piguet 15407 and Vacheron Constantin Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon

In the realm of haute horlogerie, few pieces capture the essence of artistry and engineering prowess as profoundly as the Audemars Piguet 15407 and the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon. These two masterpieces are not just timepieces; they represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, showcasing intricate open-worked designs that celebrate the beauty of watchmaking itself. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, these watches are essential components of any serious collection.

Audemars Piguet 15407: The Art of Skeletonization

The Audemars Piguet 15407 is an extraordinary addition to the Royal Oak family, a collection that redefined luxury sports watches when it was introduced in 1972. This particular model takes the iconic design a step further with its meticulous skeletonization. The result is a breathtaking display of engineering, where the inner workings of the watch are revealed in all their glory.

Design and Craftsmanship
The 15407 features an 18-carat pink gold case that beautifully contrasts with the intricately skeletonized movement, which is crafted from the same precious metal. The combination of polished and brushed surfaces enhances its visual appeal, making it a true statement piece. The signature octagonal bezel and “Tapisserie” patterned dial serve as a striking backdrop for the open-worked movement, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate details of the Caliber 4408.

Movement and Functionality
At the heart of the 15407 is the self-winding Caliber 4408, which incorporates a flying tourbillon—a feature that not only enhances accuracy but also adds an additional layer of complexity to the already intricate design. This movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, ensuring that the watch remains operational even when not worn for a couple of days. The transparent case back offers a stunning view of the movement, showcasing the meticulous finishing and artisanal craftsmanship that Audemars Piguet is renowned for.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon: A Legacy of Excellence

On the other side of the horological spectrum lies the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon, a piece that embodies the brand’s commitment to tradition while embracing modernity. Vacheron Constantin, one of the oldest watch manufacturers in continuous operation, has a storied history of creating exceptional timepieces, and the Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon is a testament to its legacy.

Design and Aesthetics
The Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon exudes an athletic elegance that is characteristic of the Overseas collection. With its stainless steel case and a stunning blue or black skeletonized dial, this watch strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and sportiness. The skeletonized dial reveals a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow, showcasing the intricate mechanics that lie within.

Innovative Movement
The heart of the Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon is the Caliber 2160, which features a tourbillon that is not only a technical marvel but also a visual spectacle. The open-worked design allows for a captivating view of the movement's components in action, highlighting Vacheron Constantin’s dedication to fine craftsmanship. With a power reserve of around 80 hours, this watch ensures reliability and precision.

Versatility and Comfort
One of the standout features of the Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon is its versatility. The watch comes with interchangeable straps, allowing wearers to switch between a metal bracelet, a rubber strap, or a leather option, making it suitable for various occasions—from formal events to casual outings.

Both pieces are simply: A Collector's Dream

Both the Audemars Piguet 15407 and the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon represent the pinnacle of horological achievement. They are not merely watches; they are works of art that showcase the exceptional skill and creativity of their respective brands. For collectors, owning either of these masterpieces is a testament to a refined taste in watchmaking, embodying the perfect blend of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and innovation.

In a world where timepieces have become more than just functional objects, the 15407 and the Overseas Skeleton Tourbillon stand as enduring symbols of the artistry and dedication that define haute horlogerie. These watches not only tell time; they tell a story of tradition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, these masterpieces deserve a place in any discerning collection.

Which one would you pick?














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[Steele]

Amazing pieces. Nobody does open works in the holy trinity like AP.

[ButtButt]

Thank you for sharing, these two are definitely worthy of grail status. For me personally I find the front view to be equally beautiful on both, but the rear view of the movement is much nicer on the VC.

I'd be interested to hear after having owned both for a while which you would keep if you could only keep one.

[Armis]

Best of both worlds!
These two brands’ openworks can’t be matched, but VC has added status with its beautiful tourbillons and movements.

[Wahlberg]

I love the AP but next to the VC I prefer the VC.

Stunning watches.

[1William]

Nice watches.

[Bpan]

Beautiful watches, but was the text written by AI? The 15407 caliber is 3132 not 4408, has 45 hours of PR not 70, and does not have a flying tourbillon.

[messikens]

Post sucks. Less AI more actual comments please

[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by messikens

Post sucks. Less AI more actual comments please

This is merely to get the convo going. Go right ahead and post your own comments. Instead of critiquing the AI, do you like the watches? Which one do you prefer? Rose gold vs steel? The Movement? The case? The size?

[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by Bpan

Beautiful watches, but was the text written by AI? The 15407 caliber is 3132 not 4408, has 45 hours of PR not 70, and does not have a flying tourbillon.

You are correct. The AP 15407 is not a Tourbillion. It's the 3132 movement, the automatic movement found in the RO line.

[PAP13]

Both grails. Vc for me


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[APhound]

I’d take the vacheron no question here!


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[Demonoid]

I’m with most of you. As much as I love AP and this is an AP forum, the VC is exquisite.


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[HL65]

Definitely the VC for me.

[messikens]

Originally Posted by Demonoid

This is merely to get the convo going. Go right ahead and post your own comments. Instead of critiquing the AI, do you like the watches? Which one do you prefer? Rose gold vs steel? The Movement? The case? The size?

I'd actually prefer if members of this forum (your humble self included - who has posted great stuff in the past) take the effort and write small and interesting tidbits about watches / comparisons they like...

Starting up ChatGPT and posting an obviously AI-generated comparison (with a TON of wrong info at that) is not what I'd like to see on TRF. I deal with enough AI BS in my real job, at least I'd prefer to have some anonymous (but ideally genuine) opinions on TRF... thanks for nothing so far on this thread, OP

On a related note - double balance all day every day

[BNA/LION]

I'm Loving the AP and so wish I bought the YG one back when they first came out.

[winst]

VC for me, as the dial appears to be more legible. Both lovely timepieces though.

[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by BNA/LION

I'm Loving the AP and so wish I bought the YG one back when they first came out.

Something tells me after that after the VC release. AP, might want to bring the colored version back.


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[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by winst

VC for me, as the dial appears to be more legible. Both lovely timepieces though.

The AP is still pretty legible. That’s the concern with most skeleton pieces. However, AP are masters of light.

Yes, VC wins this one for sure.


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[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by HL65

Definitely the VC for me.

Same here. Again, I love AP but VC knocked it out of the park.


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[Vince_76]

What a duo. The VC is so so underrated, love their skeleton pieces.

That said, 15407/15416 is probably my favorite reference of all time.

[Bartolo]

The VC is so much more readable it seems.

I've never "pushed" for an AP OW because it's just not readable to me and even with a watch of that caliber (no pun intended), readability is important to me.

So my vote goes to the VC

[Demonoid]

Here are a few more pics/eye Candy for your amusement. You can judge how legible they are.

I’m biased but the VC on the rubber strap is fire. Points to the VC for its versatility.












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[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by Vince_76

What a duo. The VC is so so underrated, love their skeleton pieces.

That said, 15407/15416 is probably my favorite reference of all time.

I’m with you, Vince. That’s why it will remain on my collection until the dawn of time. ;)


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[Demonoid]

Originally Posted by Bartolo

The VC is so much more readable it seems.

I've never "pushed" for an AP OW because it's just not readable to me and even with a watch of that caliber (no pun intended), readability is important to me.

So my vote goes to the VC

I totally get it. I have let go of watches in the past because I just couldn’t read ‘em. Anyone remember the AP first generation millenaries?


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[Little machines]

Both are masterpieces!! I would wear the AP first ! Thank you ! great looking time pieces!

[brandrea]

Very nice