The Astrology of Horology Series
Libra 2010 (September 24 to October 23)
Libra represents the zenith of the year and to many astrologers is the most desirable sign. It’s now when the hard work of spring reaps its greatest rewards. The classic Royal Oak in pink gold fits nicely as a horologic capper to the starry seasons.
Libras are among the most civilized and good-looking of the zodiac. They exude elegance and charm and also strive for the ideal. Libras will like the fact that the Royal Oak established the genre of the refined sports watch back in 1972. Crafted from steel and exhibiting a shape reminiscent of a ship’s porthole, the watch cause quite a scandal when it was first unveiled. Many questioned the wisdom of haute horlogerie house Audemars Piguet releasing this strange beast with a funny case shape and hexagonal screws—and in such an ignoble metal! Obviously Audemars Piguet’s daring bet on Gerald Genta’s progressive design proved a winner.
If anything, Libras are a sensible bunch. It’s not that they don’t appreciate finery; they certainly do. However, their tastes tend more toward clean and sensible lines without a lot of extra puffery getting in the way of the main event. In its classic octagonal case, the Royal Oak, with a clean layout of time and date set against the characteristic “Grande Tapisserie” pattern, will set Libras scales in balance. Applied to the dial, the 18k gold luminescent hands and indices stand out for easy reading.
The Royal Oak is offered in several style options that highlight their good looks. The stainless models with choice of blue, silvered or white dials ($12,500) come with a matching bracelet that integrates into the case and drapes gracefully round the wrist. The version in 18k pink gold presents either a silver or black face ($25,300) whose dashing look is completed with a chocolate-colored crocodile leather strap and matching 18k pink gold AP folding clasp.
Although considered and fair in their deliberations, Libras are known to have a critical eye. If something is askew or not up to standards, they will catch it immediately and then you’ve lost his or her attention. Fortunately, the Royal Oak is expertly tailored on the inside too. Audemars Piguet set their beautiful in-house caliber 3120 to work in this model. The self-winding movement with a 60- hour power reserve features beveled bridges and circular graining. Libra, ever fascinated by the well-placed detail, will enjoy examining the engravings on the 22k gold rotor, which include the AP monogram and the Audemars and Piguet family crests.
Always on the go, the Libra will find the Royal Oak an amiable companion. Designed for an active lifestyle, it is not a delicate flower that needs the white glove treatment. The Royal Oak can ease seamlessly into any environment, whether slipped under a suit cuff or basking in the sunshine, and also doesn’t mind the occasional dunk in the water, as its resistant to 50 meters.
For dress or play, Libras are sure to maintain their equilibrium when they’ve got the classic and iconic Royal Oak keeping time for them.
Meehna Goldsmith's fascination with timepieces began with her parents' antique grandfather clock, whose harmonious ticks and chimes echoed throughout the house during her childhood. 
