Introducing the Audemars Piguet Perpetual Calendar Caliber 7138 Collection

Audemars Piguet is kicking off its 150th anniversary with the release of the new Royal Oak and Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar models, powered by the all-new Calibre 7138. This movement is a major update for the brand’s iconic perpetual calendar watches, refining both function and wearability.

A Big Step Forward: The Calibre 7138

The highlight of this release is obviously the new in-house Calibre 7138, which replaces the long-running Calibre 5134. One of the biggest improvements? You can now adjust every calendar function directly through the crown—no more fiddling with tiny pushers. This makes setting the watch way more intuitive while reducing the risk of accidental damage to the movement.

At 29.6mm in diameter and just 4.1mm thick, the movement remains slim but offers a beefed-up 55-hour power reserve, an increase from the 40 hours of its predecessor. It also ticks at a higher frequency of 4Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), making it more precise. With 422 components and 41 jewels, it’s an impressive piece of micro-engineering that brings both technical and user-friendly upgrades.

The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar: A Classic, Perfected

The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar has been a staple in AP’s collection since 1984, and this latest update keeps everything fans love while modernizing its mechanics. The new models—reference 26674—come in two versions: stainless steel (26674ST) and 18-carat sand gold (26674SG). Of course, being Royal Oaks, both feature the signature octagonal bezel and “Grande Tapisserie” dial.

Beyond the mechanical upgrades, these models retain the traditional layout, with subdials for the day, date, month, moon phase, and leap year indicator. The sand gold model is especially striking, offering a warm tone with matching dial that gives the Royal Oak a slightly vintage look.

The Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar: AP’s Modern Side

For those who prefer something less traditional, the Code 11.59 Perpetual Calendar also gets the Calibre 7138 treatment. The new reference 26494BC comes in 18-carat white gold with a PVD blue dial featuring an interesting textured finish. The case keeps its signature design—a mix of round and octagonal elements with openworked lugs.

Like the Royal Oak models, this one benefits from the easier adjustment system, higher power reserve, and improved precision, making it more wearable day-to-day.

Price and Availability

The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in stainless steel is priced at CHF 109,300 ($122,474), while the sand gold version comes in at CHF 130,000 ($145,669). Pricing for the Code 11.59 is CHF 109,300 ($122,474).

These initial releases are limited to 150 pieces each, with a broader production run to follow. Expect them to be available exclusively through Audemars Piguet boutiques and select authorized dealers.

Final Thoughts

Audemars Piguet has taken a big step forward with the Calibre 7138, making its perpetual calendars easier to use while keeping them as beautiful as ever. The Royal Oak models stick to their classic roots, while the Code 11.59 offers something for those looking for a more contemporary design. Either way, AP is proving once again why it remains at the top of the watchmaking game.