Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic x Wristcheck: A Deep Blue Collaboration

The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic x Wristcheck is a striking new collaboration that brings a fresh blue palette to one of the thinnest automatic watches in the world. Created in partnership with Wristcheck, a Hong Kong-based collector platform founded by Austen Chu in 2020, this limited edition of 30 pieces highlights Piaget's mastery of ultra-thin watchmaking while injecting a contemporary, community-driven aesthetic.

A Radical Choice in Ultra-Thin Watchmaking

Piaget has a long history of pioneering ultra-thin calibres, dating back to the legendary 9P and 12P movements of the late 1950s and early 1960s. The Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, introduced in 2018, continues this tradition with a total thickness of just 4.3mm, making it one of the slimmest automatic watches ever produced. Only a few timepieces, such as the Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic, have surpassed it in thinness. This collaboration with Wristcheck is particularly notable because it focuses on this experimental model rather than a more conventional Altiplano, underscoring Wristcheck's appreciation for horological innovation.

Construction and Design: The Integrated Movement

The 41mm case is crafted from 18k white gold and features an unconventional construction where the movement and case are fully integrated. The caseback itself serves as the mainplate, eliminating an entire structural layer and allowing the watch to achieve its remarkable slimness. This design also exposes the mechanics on the dial side, offering a captivating view of the 238-component calibre 910P. The openworked layout is unmistakably an Altiplano Ultimate Automatic, with the off-centred hour and minute display at 2 o'clock and the exposed gear trains and bridges creating a technical, architectural aesthetic.

Wristcheck's Signature Blue Accents

Wristcheck's influence is evident in the light blue accents that animate the watch. The wide chapter ring on the off-centred dial is rendered in a deep blue, matched by blue screws and a blue-coated peripheral rotor. The rotor, made of 22k gold to ensure sufficient mass for efficient winding, is a key feature of the movement, circling the dial side without adding thickness. This blue treatment provides a striking contrast against the otherwise monochromatic white-gold and grey movement, making the collaboration instantly recognizable.

The Calibre 910P: A Technical Marvel

The calibre 910P is a testament to Piaget's engineering prowess. The bridges, some measuring just fractions of a millimetre in thickness, are positioned on the dial side and serve a practical purpose: they protect the hands from accidental pressure on the sapphire crystal. The finishing is exquisite, with satin-brushed and sandblasted surfaces, chamfered bridges, and circular satin-finished wheels. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. This combination of technical innovation and refined decoration makes the 910P one of the most interesting ultra-thin automatic movements currently in production.

Wearing the Collaboration

The watch is presented on a deep blue calfskin strap selected by Wristcheck, with matching blue stitching that echoes the dial accents. The caseback is engraved with both the Piaget crest and the Wristcheck logo, marking it as a true collaboration. The pin buckle is in white gold, maintaining the luxurious feel of the piece. With a diameter of 41mm and a thickness of just 4.3mm, the watch sits elegantly on the wrist, offering a slim profile that is both comfortable and visually striking.

Limited Edition and Availability

The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic x Wristcheck is a limited edition of just 30 pieces, making it a highly exclusive offering for collectors. The price is available upon request, reflecting the bespoke nature of the piece. This collaboration highlights Piaget's willingness to engage with new-generation collector platforms while staying true to its heritage of ultra-thin watchmaking. For those interested in acquiring a piece that combines technical mastery with a contemporary aesthetic, this limited edition is a compelling choice.

Conclusion

The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic x Wristcheck is a successful meeting of tradition and modernity. It takes a groundbreaking movement and presents it in a fresh, blue-themed light, appealing to both seasoned collectors and a younger audience. With only 30 pieces available, it is a rare opportunity to own a piece of ultra-thin horological history, enhanced by the distinctive touch of Wristcheck. This collaboration is a reminder that even in the world of haute horlogerie, partnerships can bring new perspectives and excitement.