Audemars Piguet "Skeleton" Dress Watch with Mercedes Automotive Motif Ref. 14677, mid 1990s

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

In the 1990s, Audemars Piguet created a striking series of dress watches inspired by the automotive world. From what we’ve gathered, there are five distinct versions, including designs that pay tribute to Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, and Mercedes-Benz! The reason behind AP’s decision to incorporate cars into their watch designs remains somewhat of a mystery, but one thing is clear: these timepieces are incredibly rare and undeniably cool. Each model features a stunning openworked automatic movement, with transparent dials that offer a glimpse into the intricate inner workings. Over these dials, Audemars Piguet engraved detailed scenes of historically significant cars. Just look at the details—super cool work! These "car-themed" Audemars Piguet watches are truly one-of-a-kind, with intricate dials and movements visible through the exhibition caseback. We have yet to come across another example of this reference featuring the exact Mercedes design on the dial. It’s an extraordinary collector's piece in remarkable original condition—perfect for any car enthusiast. Our particular piece displays a Mercedes-Benz, which we believe to be a 1930s Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster (also known as the "W-29"). As a side note: If you were born last century, you might recognize this car as Cruella de Vil’s car—the main antagonist from Disney’s 101 Dalmatians novel/movie. Since there’s no AP logo on the dial, Audemars Piguet opted to print their name on the glass—a cute little detail! On the flip side of the 34mm 18K gold case, we find a display caseback offering a cool view of the hand-engraved and skeletonized automatic Caliber 2021/1 movement. Furthermore, the watch is fitted with its original Audemars Piguet leather strap and an 18K yellow gold AP pin buckle. The watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker. We believe this is a unique and stunning watch—perfect if you're a car enthusiast or a fan of fine timepieces. Reach out to us today to make this one yours! Specifications: - Audemars Piguet Ref. 14677 Dress Watch - 34mm 18K yellow gold case with display caseback - Case No. D71XX / Movement No. 339XXX, dating to the mid-1990s - “Mercedes-Benz" hand-engraved/skeletonized dial with painted black Audemars Piguet logo on the glass - Audemars Piguet Cal. 2021/1 ultra-thin automatic movement - Original AP leather strap with 18K gold pin buckle - Fully serviced by our watchmaker