Audemars Piguet “TV Case” Oversize Dress Watch 18K White Gold Blue Dial Circa 1970s

Audemars Piguet “TV Case” Oversize Dress Watch – 18K White Gold Blue Dial (Calibre 2001, Circa 1970s)

The Audemars Piguet “TV Case” Oversize is a rare and striking expression of the brand’s creative spirit during the 1970s—a period when the maison explored bold new forms while maintaining its traditional craftsmanship and ultra-thin mechanical excellence. This exceptional example, crafted entirely in solid 18K white gold, features a deep blue dial, manual Calibre 2001, and comes complete with its original box, strap, and buckle. Beautifully preserved and fully original, it represents a true connoisseur’s find.

The Case – Sculptural White Gold Modernism

The 34 x 32 mm white gold case (excluding crown and lugs) is immediately recognizable for its distinctive “TV screen” design—a hallmark of avant-garde 1970s horology. With a lug-to-lug length of 39.5 mm, the watch wears elegantly yet confidently, its proportions perfectly capturing the interplay between geometry and refinement that defined Audemars Piguet’s experimental dress watches of the era.

The case remains unpolished, preserving its crisp edges and deep hallmarks—a true rarity for a watch of this age. The white gold Audemars Piguet crown completes the composition, understated yet unmistakably luxurious.

Its minimalist, architectural form demonstrates the maison’s ability to blend cutting-edge design with timeless elegance—decades before integrated and shaped cases became mainstream.

The Dial – Deep Blue Sophistication

The very dark blue dial is mesmerizing, shifting between navy and almost black depending on the light. Its minimalist layout—clean baton indices and slim hands—lets the unique color and texture take center stage. The effect is quietly hypnotic, a reminder of how Audemars Piguet balanced bold design with restraint.

This dial, factory original, remains in stunning condition, showing only gentle aging consistent with its vintage nature. The simplicity and depth of the color make it one of the most elegant dials from the brand’s pre-Royal Oak era.

The Movement – Audemars Piguet Calibre 2001, Ultra-Thin Mastery

Powering this watch is the Audemars Piguet Calibre 2001, a manual-wound ultra-thin movement that stands as a technical triumph of its time. The calibre is beautifully constructed—slim, reliable, and finished to haute horlogerie standards, as expected from Audemars Piguet’s workshops in Le Brassus.

Renowned for its precision and delicacy, the Cal. 2001 is part of the same lineage that inspired many of AP’s finest dress watches throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The movement runs smoothly and accurately, underscoring its quality and the care with which this piece has been preserved.

The Strap & Buckle – All Original AP

This example retains its original Audemars Piguet alligator leather strap, adding an authentic touch to its already remarkable completeness. (Please note that for sales outside the EU, the strap may be removed due to CITES regulationsgoverning exotic leathers.)

Accompanying it is the original 18K white gold Audemars Piguet pin buckle, made by Wenger, one of AP’s historic Swiss suppliers. Together, they complete a fully original and cohesive presentation.

The watch also comes with its original Audemars Piguet box, making it an extraordinarily complete and collectible example.

Key Details

• Model: Audemars Piguet “TV Case” Oversize Dress Watch

• Movement: Audemars Piguet Calibre 2001, Manual-Wound Ultra-Thin

• Case Material: 18K White Gold (Unpolished, Crisp Hallmarks)

• Case Size: 34 x 32 mm (39.5 mm lug-to-lug)

• Dial: Original Deep Blue (“Very Dark Blue”)

• Crown: Original 18K White Gold Audemars Piguet Crown

• Crystal: Mineral Glass (Excellent Condition)

• Strap: Original Audemars Piguet Alligator Leather Strap

• Buckle: Original 18K White Gold Audemars Piguet Buckle (Made by Wenger)

• Accessories: Original Audemars Piguet Box

• Era: Circa 1970s

• Condition: Exceptional – unpolished case, pristine dial, complete and original set

Why This Watch?

The Audemars Piguet “TV Case” Oversize Blue Dial represents a rare convergence of design innovation and mechanical artistry. In the 1970s, before the Royal Oak revolutionized sports luxury, AP was already experimenting with daring shapes and ultra-thin calibres—this watch is one of those creative milestones.

With its deep blue dial, white gold construction, and unpolished originality, it exemplifies the maison’s flair for elegant modernism. The completeness of the set—box, strap, and Wenger-made buckle—only enhances its desirability.

A truly gorgeous and rare Audemars Piguet, it stands as a museum-worthy example of discreet luxury from one of Switzerland’s most revered maisons—an icon of design purity and mid-century elegance.