By James Phang
Coming SIHH 16, Piaget is unveiling yet another limited edition watch, the Piaget Emperador Coussin XL 700P. Featuring an unusual match between a mechanical calibre and a generator, this innovative timepiece highlights two perfectly mastered skills embedded in the very genes of the Manufacture. According to Piaget, the Emperador Coussin XL 700P is dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the first quartz watch movement which Piaget developed in-house back in 1976- the ultra thin 7P calibre. It was then known as the thinnest quartz movement in the world at just 3.1 mm thick. Ever since, Piaget has regularly enriched this range of high-performance quartz movements powering most of its ladies’ and jewellery watch models.
The mechanical heart of the Emperador Coussin XL 700P beats at the high frequency of 32,768 developed by the quartz generator, and is housed in a 46.5mm cushion-shaped 18k white gold case, while the deep black shade of the calibre is matched by a black ADLC-coated gold bezel. The skeletonized dial has silvered indices and hands. The guilloché micro-rotor adorned with the Piaget coat-of-arms is positioned at the 9-10 o’clock position, while the generator is suspended under a triple-armed bridge at the 12-2 o’clock position, along with the notable sunburst and chamfered bridges, circular stain-brushed wheels and silver-toned screws.
The new in-house 700P movement has been compared to the Seiko Spring Drive from a technological standpoint given that both use a standard mechanical gear train to turn a combination generator/regulating organ. , albeit Piaget coming from a much more luxurious angle with higher attention to detail and finishing. The 700P movement is fundamentally mechanical – it uses a conventional mechanical going train, powered by a micro rotor that winds the mainspring – which then stores energy in a quartz crystal-based regulation system. It has a power reserve of only 42 hours when fully “charged”, with a power reserve indicator located at the back of the watch.
From a consumer standpoint, many watch collectors would likely shun away from this particular piece due to their bias against quartz watches and a strong preference for mechanical movements. That being said, it is refreshing to see a reputable brand like Piaget coming up to prove that high-end quartz watches can find its place within the hemisphere of ultra-luxury watches. The Emperador Coussin XL 700P’s resolutely modern design and technological advancements will no doubt appeal to watch connoisseurs who see beyond the mainstream crowd and have an exclusive taste in their timepieces.
Limited at only 118 pieces, the Piaget Emperador Coussin XP 700P is priced at $70,800.
For more info, please visit piaget.com
JAMES PHANG – CONTRIBUTING WRITER
James Phang is a young watch enthusiast from Singapore and is a self-professed fanatic of independent brands for their unique avant-garde designs. Some of his favorite brands include MB&F, Urwerk, Romain Jerome, Sarpaneva, Peter Speake-Marin and Azimuth. His love for art extends out to all things handmade, and he has made it his personal mission to find the best handmade straps and buckles worldwide for his humble collection. Read his articles here
