SIHH 2015: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept RD1 Acoustic Research Sounds The Alarm

One day into SIHH 2015 and Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak Concept Acoustic Research is already attracting its fair share of industry buzz with a winning combination of iconic design and never-before-seen chiming technology.

The sum of eight years of acoustic study, this prototype, developed in Audemars Piguets’ Le Brassus-based acoustic research lab in conjunction with the EPFL (Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), places equal emphasis on both time and sound, reinventing the minute repeater category in the process.

By harnessing the sonic principals of stringed instruments in its striking 44mm titanium case, the watch is able to issue bright, clear tones while simultaneously eliminating the sound dampening often associated with water-resistant timepieces.

Featuring a new and virtually silent striking mechanism, the RO Concept Acoustic Research also sets new standards for volume, pitch, and tone in a wristwatch, but, thanks in large part to the academic contributions of the venerable Genevan Conservatory and the engineering expertise of the EPFL, the Concept is far more than a horological experiment.

In fact, it’s just the opposite, seamlessly integrating into Audemars Piguet’s already versatile stable of timepieces with the help of a 48-hour power reserve, minute repeater, tourbillon, and column-wheel chronograph.

A black rubber strap, hand-wound movement, and custom luminescent hands add the finishing touches, ensuring that this that one of SIHH’s most-anticipated unveilings will be on of its highlights.

Watch this space for more information…