Introduced: 1986

Purpose / Inspiration: The name Huitième means “eighth” in French—a reference to AP’s 8th watchmaking generation and a nod to traditional legacy. It was designed as a luxury travel and dress chronograph, more refined than sporty, intended for the sophisticated globetrotter or executive.

Designer: Designed in-house by Audemars Piguet’s team during a period of expanding beyond the Royal Oak, aiming to appeal to the classicist market of the 1980s and 1990s.

Materials & Features: Often made in yellow gold, rose gold, or steel, with automatic chronograph movements (notably Caliber 2126/2840 and others), elegant curved lugs, and slightly domed sapphire crystals. Known for balanced dials and often stepped bezels.

Discontinuation Status: Discontinued in the early 2000s. Has not been reissued. Today, it’s a sleeper hit on the vintage/pre-owned market—understated, overlooked, and undervalued.

Boardroom Weaponry: This isn’t for the yacht—it’s for the negotiation table.

The Gentleman’s Chronograph: No screws, no tapisserie—just classic AP refinement in a round case.

Quiet Flex: You wear this, and collectors nod. Everyone else just thinks you have great taste.

The Non-Royal Oak AP: For the buyer who wants heritage without hype.