THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: AUDEMARS PIGUET
MODEL: 6001
YEAR: c1974
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 35x40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: QUARTZ
Quartz is cool. If you don't believe us, prepare to have your mind changed.
Even seasoned Audemars Piguet connoisseurs would be forgiven for never knowing this watch existed. Between 300 and 350 were made so its as rare as they come, but this watch sits proudly on the brands horological timeline - and stands as the first ever quartz watch they made. Treat the 6001 as a dip-your-toe-in-the-water exercise for their Quartz watches, to test the appetite of the market. It proved a resounding success.
Originally sold in either yellow gold, white gold, white gold with a diamond studded dial, or as per this example; stainless steel and powered by a modified, borderline excessive 'MegaQuartz' Beta 21 that vibrates at 2,359,296 times a second. With a fresh battery it will lose or gain no more than one second per month - but fear not, below the crown on the right side of the case is a small pusher used for correcting that rogue second meaning it is one of the most accurate movements in a watch to this day. Its crown features two positions, the first setting only the hour hand which is useful for advancing the date, and the second being the minute hand adjustment.
The general design language of this watch is likely to feel familiar, reminiscent of the far more storied 5402 - this is no coincidence as the release of the 6001 was just 2 years after the first Royal Oak was presented at the 1972 Basel Fair.
This example however is exceedingly more desirable thanks to its 'Tropical' dial - thanks to UV exposure the 'Guillochage Tapisserie' dial synonymous with the brand has oxidised and discoloured, reminding us of a windblown wildfire - up close it's a sight to behold. The case and bracelet are in unpolished condition and the watch has full links, accommodating a 19.5cm wrist. The movement is running at its expected and exceptional accuracy and benefits from a new battery.
The original sales booklet is also present with the watch which gives a great insight into the movement construction and technology, as well as the other examples of the 6001 produced. We're yet to come across another example for sale, let alone one with such unique characters.