Audemars Piguet manufactured their first minute repeating wristwatch in 1907 for the renowned American industrialist John Schaeffer. This customized pioneer version was housed in a cushion-shaped case, the numerals on the dial were personalized with the letters of his name instead of numerals. In the early 1990s, Audemars Piguet launched the “John Shaeffer” limited edition series, paying tribute to the original “coussin tortue” or “cushion turtle” design.

The “Star Wheel” system was invented by the firm at the same period, including different variations of “wandering hour” wristwatches. Three transparent sapphire disks, or star wheels, each inscribed with four hour indicators are attached to a rotating center wheel. As the assembly turns, the indicator for the actual hour is rotated into view and then passed across a 120-degree minutes sector. The time is read by noting the visible hour pointing to the current minute. Each disk is obscured until it rises into the arc where the background contrasts the digits into legibility.

This watch is number 3 in a limited edition of 10 examples.




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ψ Please note the endangered species strap is shown for display purposes only and is not for sale. Upon sale, this watch will be supplied to the buyer with a non CITES strap (not shown). For further information please refer to the Conditions of Sale.