Shah Rukh Khan Channels Legacy Watchmaking With His Latest Audemars Piguet Flex
Shah Rukh Khan Channels Legacy Watchmaking With His Latest Audemars Piguet Flex

King Khan's latest horological find is one of the most fascinating watch launches of 2024

Shah Rukh Khan is no stranger to luxury timepieces. The Bollywood superstar’s wrist game has long been as sharp as his wit, and his latest acquisition—the limited edition Audemars Piguet [RE]Master02 Selfwinding—is a testament to his timeless appeal. At the recent 25th IIFA Awards press conference in Mumbai, SRK’s all-black ensemble was effortlessly stylish, but it was the watch on his wrist that had true collectors doing a double take.

 

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The Audemars Piguet [RE]Master02 is a fascinating piece of horology, one that dives deep into the brand’s archives for inspiration while pushing forward with contemporary craftsmanship. This 250-piece limited edition is based on the rare 1960 Audemars Piguet asymmetric reference 5159BA, a bold yet underappreciated design from the brand’s experimental era. Unlike the more conventional Royal Oaks that dominate AP’s lineup, the [RE]Master02 embraces a Brutalist aesthetic, making it one of the most distinctive timepieces in the brand’s catalogue.

 

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Audemars Piguet doesn’t do things halfway, and the materials used in the [RE]Master02 reflect that ethos. The 41mm asymmetric case, a defining feature of this piece, is crafted from 18-carat sand gold, a novel alloy that merges the warmth of pink gold with the subtle coolness of white gold. Depending on the angle and lighting, the watch shifts between hues, ensuring it remains eye-catching in every setting. The case’s unusual form is complemented by a Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 dial—an iconic AP shade that originated with the first Royal Oak in 1972. The radial satin finish further enhances the dial’s depth, while sand gold hands and applied indices complete the elegant yet futuristic aesthetic.

 

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At the heart of the [RE]Master02 is Audemars Piguet’s latest technical marvel, the Calibre 7129. This extra-thin, self-winding movement is derived from the renowned Calibre 7121, but forgoes a date function in favour of a clean, minimalist approach. The movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, with a 52-hour power reserve, ensuring precision and reliability that meets modern expectations.

 

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The sapphire caseback offers a glimpse into the movement’s intricate detailing, with the rotor also crafted from sand gold. While the original 5159BA was manually wound, AP’s decision to introduce an automatic calibre brings the watch in line with modern preferences for everyday wearability. The **matte blue alligator leather strap**, carefully selected to match the dial, adds a touch of refinement while ensuring comfort. The **18-carat sand gold pin buckle** subtly echoes the asymmetry of the case, reinforcing the thoughtfulness of the design.

 

With a price tag of $47,200 (approximately Rs 40 lakh), the Audemars Piguet [RE]Master02 isn’t just a watch—it’s a statement. For a seasoned collector like Shah Rukh Khan, this timepiece is more than an accessory; it’s a bridge between heritage and modernity, a watch that respects its past while refusing to be bound by it.

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