About openworked watches
Skeletonization is one of watchmaking's most demanding arts, requiring craftsmen to remove as much metal as possible from a movement while preserving its structural integrity and mechanical function—a process that can take dozens of hours of hand finishing alone. Within the luxury segment, Audemars Piguet has become particularly celebrated for its openworked Royal Oak references, marrying the iconic octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet of the Royal Oak—introduced in 1972 and designed by Gerald Genta—with fully skeletonized movements that showcase Geneva stripes, beveled edges, and blued screws. The Double Balance Wheel Openworked models introduce a twin-wheel regulator visible through the dial, while the Tourbillon Extra-Thin Openworked and Flying Tourbillon Openworked references push the engineering further by combining ultra-thin architecture or a cage that appears to float with full skeletonization. Ceramic-cased skeleton references such as the Royal Oak Tourbillon Chronograph Openworked in ref. 26343CE represent the frontier of material science meeting traditional hand decoration.
What to Look For
Buyers should pay close attention to case material and size, as values differ substantially between steel references like the Tourbillon Extra-Thin Openworked 26518ST, rose gold versions such as the 26518OR, and white gold diamond-set pieces like the Double Balance Wheel Openworked 15469BC.ZZ.D001CR.01—with diamond baguette models commanding a considerable premium. Complication level is equally decisive: a flying tourbillon or tourbillon chronograph openworked reference in ceramic will typically sit at the apex of the range, while double balance wheel skeleton models offer an accessible entry into AP's skeletonized Royal Oak lineup without sacrificing the visual drama that defines the category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the openworked Royal Oak watches in this collection authentic?
Yes, every watch at Bizak and Co. is authenticated before listing and ships with available original box and papers. Our team verifies serial numbers, movement finishing, and case details to ensure buyers receive a genuine Audemars Piguet openworked reference.
What is the difference between a double balance wheel openworked and a tourbillon openworked Royal Oak?
The Double Balance Wheel Openworked uses a twin regulator system designed to improve rate stability by counteracting positional errors, and the skeletonized dial puts both wheels on full display in a 37 mm case. The Tourbillon Openworked models—including the Extra-Thin 26518 series and the Flying Tourbillon 26735—add a rotating cage that counteracts the effects of gravity on the escapement, representing a higher level of complication and typically a higher price point.
Do these skeleton watches come in different sizes and who are they suited for?
The openworked Royal Oak references in this collection span 37 mm and 41 mm cases as well as a 44 mm ceramic tourbillon chronograph, offering options across a range of wrist sizes and preferences. The 37 mm white gold and frosted gold models appeal to buyers seeking a more refined or feminine profile, while the 41 mm and 44 mm cases target collectors who prefer a bold, statement-making presence on the wrist.
Browse also: Audemars Piguet collection.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
