21 Audemars Piguet An attractive and fine, Beta 21, oval and octagonal-shaped wristwatch in steel, with certificate and presentation box.

Estimate: € 8,000 –⁠ 16,000

The Audemars Piguet reference 6001 is a strikingly stylish timepiece that perfectly encapsulates the effortlessly cool aesthetic of the 1970s. Introduced in 1974, it holds historical significance as Audemars Piguet’s very first model to incorporate a quartz movement. Offered in steel, yellow gold, and white gold, this watch seamlessly blends technological innovation with the era’s distinctive design language. It is estimated that fewer than 350 examples of the reference 6001 were produced between 1974 and 1979. The 6001 served as a bold experiment for Audemars Piguet, exploring the potential of quartz technology at the peak of the quartz revolution. While companies like Rolex and Patek Philippe were involved in the development of the Beta 21 quartz movement, Audemars Piguet utilized the Omega-developed, ultra-precise Megaquartz caliber 1510, accurate to one second a month, and re-labeled it as caliber 2510. This was the era’s most precise movement, achieving an astonishing accuracy of just one second variation per month. A quick press of the discreet pusher beside the crown allowed for effortless synchronization of the seconds hand, ensuring maximum precision. The rectangular case features an octagonal shape with softer lines, a unique and captivating design choice. The dial is adorned with a “petite tapisserie” pattern in an electric blue hue, complete with a date display at 6 o’clock and baton indexes that match the hands. In superb overall condition, the present example of reference 6001 showcases a slightly tropicalized dial, original certificate, and presentation box.