Audemars Piguet has taken one of the least acoustic materials in watchmaking and transformed it into a viable repeater in its Royal Oak Minute Repeater Supersonnerie. Introduced in two variations, one with white gold markers, the other with diamond, this new reference sees the next step in this historic brand’s long history with chiming watches. 

Initial thoughts

Overall, this is an excellent update to a watch that was already very good. The original model is made completely out of titanium and has very subtle aesthetics, this all black look feels very modern and in-line with what we have come to expect from Audemars Piguet. 

The in-built contradiction of building an extremely expensive sonnerie out of a material not well suited for transmitting sound is not lost on me. Making this perhaps the best example of the brand’s proprietary amplifying system, showing that it doesn’t matter what material you make it out of, it will still function fantastically. Although we are yet to compare the two watches in the real world, it would be interesting to have them both side-by-side to see what difference the material makes here. 

While the brand has a good track record of producing full bracelets in ceramic, the rubber strap not only gives a more sporty or casual feel, but also helps to keep the weight down, doubling down on the wonderful contradiction of this piece that blends high horology and sports aesthetics. No comment has yet been made from the brand as to how many of these are going to be made and the price is available only upon request. 

Blacked out

These two new takes on the Supersonnerie Royal Oak transform it into an all black, ceramic affair. With the 42 mm by 14 mm case being constructed entirely out of black ceramic containing Zirconium Oxide, including the solid caseback. Having decreased slightly from the previous model, this version only comes with 20 m of water resistance, which is still more than you would find on a truly classical minute repeater. The only difference between these two new pieces can be found on the black tapisserie dial, with one having white gold batton markers and the other baguette-cut diamond markers. 

The standout detail about this watch is its case construction. Using Audemars Piguet’s proprietary Supersonnerie system, it allows the rather dense ceramic material to become an excellent transmitter of sound. We go into a deeper explanation of how this system works in a previous article. 

The diamond markers version.

But essentially, it increases volume through a number of factors including case construction, and the gongs being attached to a titanium disc known as a sound board instead of the baseplate. This sound board resonates with the gongs, producing a louder sound which is then transmitted out of the holes in the back of the case. Pair this with the near silent fly-wheel governor and the sound is clear and audible, without being interfered with by anything else. 

The calibre 2953 that sits inside this watch is based on the cal. 2937, found in the Royal Oak Concept Supersonnerie from 2015 and is constructed from 362 pieces, capable of holding 72 hours of power reserve.

Key facts and price

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Minute Repeater Supersonnerie
Ref. 26591CE.OO.D002CA.02

Diameter: 42 mm
Height: 14 mm
Material: Ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 20 m

Movement: Cal. 2953
Functions: Hours, minutes and minute repeater
Winding: Manual
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hours (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 72 hours

Strap: Rubber

Limited edition: No
Availability: At AP Houses and boutiques
Price: Price on Request

For more information, visit Audemarspiguet.com.