Audemars Piguet Ellipse

Audemars Piguet Vintage 18k White Gold | Calibre 2003 | Lapis Hour Markers | 1960s

Description

The 1960s Audemars Piguet dress line is where subtle luxury met serious watchmaking. This piece captures that philosophy perfectly. It carries a slim white gold case with a quiet presence that grows on you the longer it sits on the wrist. The silver dial keeps things minimal and balanced, then the lapis markers step in with a touch of color that feels intentional rather than decorative.

Inside is the legendary Calibre 2003, one of the thinnest hand wound movements ever produced and a shared masterpiece developed between Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Jaeger. It is a movement collectors genuinely respect because it represents a level of micro-engineering that still feels impressive today.

The case measures 27 mm across with a 32 mm lug to lug length. The size suits the era, and the design leans into elegance rather than wrist dominance. The blue alligator strap complements the lapis stones and gives the watch a cohesive, refined look on the wrist.

This is classic AP. Understated design, top tier movement work, and a personality that never tries too hard.

Key Features

• Brand: Audemars Piguet
• Model: Vintage Dress Watch
• Year: Circa 1960s
• Movement: Manual wind, Calibre 2003
• Case Material: Solid 18k white gold
• Dial: Factory original silver dial with round lapis cabochon markers
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Strap: Blue alligator leather strap
• Dimensions: 27 mm width, 32 mm lug to lug

Specifications

• Case Width: 27 mm (excluding crown)
• Lug to Lug: 32 mm
• Case Material: 18k white gold
• Dial: Silver with lapis markers
• Movement: Manual wind Calibre 2003
• Strap: Blue alligator leather
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Water Resistance: Originally minimal, no longer guaranteed

Condition Report

• Dial: Original silver dial with clean printing, intact lapis markers, and even aging consistent with the era.
• Case: Solid white gold with light surface marks from normal wear. No harsh polishing. Case lines remain sharp.
• Crystal: Acrylic crystal with faint hairlines visible under strong light.
• Movement: Calibre 2003 manual movement winds smoothly and keeps steady time.
• Strap: New blue alligator strap, unworn.

Historical Significance

This watch belongs to AP’s pre Royal Oak era, a time when the brand focused on ultra slim dress watches powered by some of Switzerland’s most advanced movements. The Calibre 2003 is a milestone in thin mechanical engineering and remains one of the defining movements of mid century high horology. The lapis markers add a rare ornamental touch, giving this piece a character that stands apart from typical dress watches of the period. Collectors value these early AP models because they show the brand at its most classical and precise.