Why This Watch Matters

Piaget specialized in offering semi-precious stone dials, but it is extremely rare to find such dials combined with their outstanding ultra-slim 12P movement.

The Full Story

Launched with fanfare in 1960, the 12P caliber was immediately described as a “technical revolution." With a 2.3mm thickness, it was the slimmest automatic movement ever made, and Piaget soon doubled down when it added a date complication. The 12P was developed after the unveiling of the manual-winding 9P, which was also focused on the ultra-thin side of watchmaking, reaching a thickness of just 2mm. These slender movements allowed for slim and elegant cases that could also accommodate semi-precious stone dials, which are always thicker than “regular dials." Most stone dials were fitted with the caliber 9P; this reference 12342 is a stunning example of the rare pairing of precious dial and automatic movement 12P1 (the evolution of the 12P).

The Fine Print

Maker: Piaget
Model: N/A
Reference: 12342
Year: 1978
Case No: 319433
Material: 18k yellow gold
Dimensions: 34mm diameter; 6mm thickness
Crystal: Sapphire
Lume: N/A
Caliber: Ultra-slim automatic caliber 12P1
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Smooth Brown Calfskin Strap with Piaget-signed buckle in 18k yellow gold
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The deep gold hallmarks show that this case was probably never polished, and the same can be said about the full lugs. The crown is unsigned, but this is correct for the production period. The lapis lazuli dial does not have any breaks, but shows a couple of small marks. The dauphine handset is extremely legible, and does not present any oxidation. The ultra-thin 12P caliber works nicely, and is in excellent cosmetic condition. The watch comes on a later strap but still includes the original yellow-gold buckle exhibiting the characteristic engraved P.