We keep coming back to the same point because it remains true: entry into serious, high-end watchmaking is still possible without venturing into the stratosphere.

In the 1990s, Audemars Piguet revisited one of the most intriguing chapters of its history with a line of cushion-shaped complicated watches inspired by a platinum minute-repeating wristwatch made in the early twentieth century for American industrialist John Shaeffer. The result was a collection that felt resolutely classical, yet entirely out of step with the prevailing trends of its time.

This reference 25870 is a particularly appealing expression of that philosophy, featuring a full triple calendar complication. The 33 mm cushion-shaped case is crafted in 18k rose gold and paired with a generously sized crown, a practical and stylistic nod to the manually wound movement within.

The white dial is beautifully composed, with four recessed sub-dials displaying the day, date, month, and running seconds. Blued hands provide crisp contrast, while applied 18k yellow gold Breguet numerals - interrupted by applied dots at three, nine, and twelve - add warmth and depth. Skeletonized cathedral hands complete the picture, reinforcing the watch’s unmistakably old-world character.

Delivered on a burgundy alligator leather strap with an 18k rose gold Audemars Piguet folding clasp, this 25870 is ready to be worn and enjoyed as intended.