Classis Replica Audemars Piguet 25668BA Perpetual Calendar Skeleton

The Swiss Replica Audemars Piguet 25668BA Perpetual Calendar Skeleton stands as the ultimate refinement of the legendary 5548, produced between 1988 and 1993 to mark the revival of complicated mechanical craftsmanship in Switzerland. Only 154 examples were created in 18k yellow gold, divided into two distinct case designs: the earlier extruded pushers and the later flat pusher variant like the one seen here. Many enthusiasts view this model as the pinnacle of traditional Audemars Piguet artistry outside of their Royal Oak line. In spirit, it mirrors the charm of the Doré 3940, while competing directly with the Vacheron Constantin 43032. Each has its own character, but all are masterpieces that embody a high point of ambition after the quartz disruption.

When it first appeared in 1978, the Quantième Perpétuel was the thinnest perpetual calendar ever made, with a case height of just 3.95mm. Its calibre 2120/2800 was a secret project initiated during the dark days of the quartz crisis. Michel Rochat, Daniel Golay, and Wilfred Berney, three senior artisans, defied the odds by developing the movement in their own time without pay, believing Audemars Piguet's financial situation might never support such an endeavor officially. They built upon the Jaeger-LeCoultre 920 ébauche, extensively modifying it with a proprietary calendar mechanism. Their work not only rejuvenated Audemars Piguet’s reputation for complications but also contributed to the broader survival of Swiss replica watches craftsmanship.

The 36mm case was drawn by Jacqueline Dimier, an enduring design with elegantly curved lugs and a subtly stepped bezel. Among her many contributions, this remains one of the most celebrated.

Although the all-gold configuration is the most common, it remains one of the most beautiful. The artistry really shines between the subdials. The sword-shaped subdial hands are heat-blued, and the openworking reveals meticulous hand engraving, delicate beveling, mirror polishing, and a stunning number of sharply finished inner angles. The skeletonized moonphase disc adds a poetic touch, serving as a tribute to classical techniques finding new life at a critical moment in Swiss replica watches history.

The 25668 is often considered one of the most visually mesmerizing perpetual calendars produced by the Holy Trinity brands after the quartz era. Today, Audemars Piguet’s overwhelming focus on the Royal Oak does little justice to this incredible heritage. Models like the 25668 were not just beautiful creations; they were lifelines that helped mechanical replica watches reclaim a future at a time when quartz technology threatened to erase centuries of tradition. It is unquestionably one of the most important and influential references of the last hundred years.

The particular example here remains in excellent condition. The sharpness of the case engravings, especially on the side opposite the crown, testifies to its careful preservation. It comes fitted with its original buckle, though offered as a watch only, sourced from a respected Malaysian retailer.