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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Minute-repeating wristwatch

Audemars Piguet 'John Shaeffer' Minute-Repeating Wristwatch

Partially verified

This Audemars Piguet 'John Shaeffer' model is a minute-repeating wristwatch housed in a cushion-shaped platinum case measuring 33 x 33 mm. Produced in the 1990s as part of a limited edition of 10 examples, this watch is identified as number 7 of 10. The timepiece features a three-body construction with polished and brushed surfaces, a transparent case back secured by four screws, and sapphire crystals. The off-white dial is appointed with applied white gold Roman numerals, an auxiliary seconds dial, and white gold 'Feuille' hands. It is powered by the rhodium-plated Caliber 2865 G movement, which is decorated with fausses côtes and contains 34 jewels. The manual movement includes a straight-line lever escapement and a monometallic balance adjusted to five positions. The minute repeating function is activated via a slide located on the side of the case band.

Front view of the platinum Audemars Piguet 'John Shaeffer' minute-repeating wristwatch.
Front view of the platinum Audemars Piguet 'John Shaeffer' minute-repeating wristwatch. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Wristwatch · Minute-repeating wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Audemars Piguet
Reference
PT 257981002
Catalogue / lot identifier
253
Source-reported date
1990s
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
D 71840

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Design

The watch features a cushion-shaped, three-body case crafted from platinum. The exterior surfaces are finished with a combination of polished and brushed textures, including the bezel. A transparent case back is affixed with four screws, allowing visibility into the movement, and the watch is fitted with sapphire crystals on both sides.

The dial is off-white and features applied white gold Roman numerals and an auxiliary seconds register. The time is indicated by white gold 'Feuille' hands.

Evidence for this section
  • “cushion-shaped, minute-repeating, platinum gentleman's wristwatch”
  • “three-body, solid, polished and brushed, transparent case back with 4 screws”
  • “off-white with applied white gold Roman numerals, auxiliary seconds dial”

Movement and Complications

The watch is powered by the Caliber 2865 G, a rhodium-plated movement featuring fausses côtes decoration. It is constructed with 34 jewels and utilizes a straight-line lever escapement. The monometallic balance is adjusted to account for heat, cold, isochronism, and five specific positions to ensure timekeeping accuracy.

The minute-repeating complication is operated by a slide mechanism integrated into the side of the case band. The movement also includes a shock-absorber and a self-compensating flat balance-spring to support performance.

Evidence for this section
  • “Cal. 2865 G, rhodium plated, "fausses côtes" decoration”
  • “monometallic balance adjusted for heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions”
  • “repeating on gongs by activatinglide on the band.”

Signatures and Authenticity

The auction description confirms that the dial, case, and movement are signed by Audemars Piguet. The watch is identified by case number D 71840 and movement number 435755, with the specific production number 7 out of a total edition of 10 pieces.

The watch is accompanied by an Audemars Piguet platinum buckle, matching the primary case material.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dial, case and movement signed.”
  • “No. 7/10, movement No. 435755, case No. D 71840”
  • “platinum Audemars Piguet buckle.”

Open research questions

  • What is the historical significance of the 'John Shaeffer' name for this specific model line?
  • Are there variations in the dial layout for the other nine pieces produced in this limited series?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Audemars Piguet 'John Shaeffer' Minute-Repeating Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerAudemars Piguet, Genève“Audemars Piguet, Genève”
Reference NumberPT 257981002“Ref. PT 257981002”
Case SerialD 71840“case No. D 71840”
Movement Serial435755“movement No. 435755”
Limited Edition7 of 10“No. 7/10”
Movement Caliber2865 G“M. Cal. 2865 G”
Dimensions33 x 33 mm“Dim. 33 x 33 mm”
ConditionGrade AAA Excellent“Grading System Grade: AAA Excellent”

Visible details

  • Cushion-shaped platinum case construction
  • Off-white dial with applied Roman numerals
  • Visible repeating slide on the case band
  • Subsidiary seconds dial at the 6 o'clock position

Research qualifications

  • The exact month or year of production within the 1990s is not specified
  • The source reports minor oxidation on the case, which requires physical inspection to verify current state

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.