The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton Ultra-Thin Automatic

Although the Piaget Altiplano Skeleton was presented in 2012 we hadn’t had the opportunity of going hands-on with it. So when Piaget recently offered us the chance to review one of their watches, the choice of the model was a no-brainer. One of the watches that best illustrates key Piaget areas of expertise is the Altiplano Skeleton. In particular, the brand’s ability to create uniquely elegant ultra-thin watches or to turn a movement into a miniaturised piece of architecture and art.

Starting with the case, the Altiplano Skeleton is loyal to the pure, slender lines of the Altiplano. At 38mm in diameter and just 5.34mm in height, its classic design combines a slender bezel, thin straight lugs and a small fluted crown. Despite the ultra-thin profile, it is water-resistant to 30m, which will give you enough peace of mind when wearing the watch on a daily basis – it’s a proper dress watch after all…

A classic with a modern twist

By producing a skeleton version of this icon, Piaget did a great job incorporating a contemporary openworked movement to create a clean, modern-looking design, in particular with interesting finishes or harmonious shapes, curves and contrasts. 

As you can see, the star of the show is the skeletonised automatic movement, the Piaget 1200S calibre, one of the thinnest in the world at just 2.45mm. This in-house movement is an openworked version of the 1200P. Running at 3Hz, this micro-rotor movement stores about 44 hours of autonomy when fully wound. 

A close look at the movement reveals a sleek contemporary finish and sophisticated uses of materials. The index assembly is signed with the letter P for Piaget. Coloured in pink gold or in black, the platinum oscillating weight is engraved with the Piaget coat of arms. Bevelled and drawn by hand, the bridges and plate are decorated with a satin-brushed sunburst motif. Last but not least, elegant dauphine-style hands display time.

Two editions of the Piaget Altiplano Skeleton Ultra-Thin Automatic are available. The first one is a sleek, contemporary and discreet white gold model, with a rhodium-plated movement and contrasting black elements. The second has a more luxurious feel, with its warm pink gold case and a movement coated in black. 

The Piaget Altiplano skeleton is presented on an alligator leather strap with a pin buckle matching the material of the case. As you would expect, on the wrist, the watch is incredibly comfortable and super enjoyable to wear. With its 38mm diameter and lithe profile, you almost forget it is there. At the same time, it does have a strong wrist presence: its architectural skeleton movement is uniquely elegant. Admittedly, it is sometimes quite difficult to tell the time with to-the-minute precision, but this is often the case for skeleton watches… and there is so much to love in this watch. 

Availability & Price

The Piaget Altiplano Skeleton Ultra-Thin Automatic is priced at EUR 58,000 or USD 57,000 and is available from retailers and official boutiques.

For more information, visit www.piaget.com.