Piaget’s 2017 Altiplano 60th Anniversary collection marked six decades since the maison introduced its ultra-thin 9P movement in 1957. Its two principal white-gold wristwatches take different approaches: a 38 mm manual-wind model with a solid back, and a 43 mm automatic with a display back. The larger watch is just 5.25 mm thick overall; Time+Tide reviewer Felix Scholz described it as particularly pleasing to wear.
What the 60th Anniversary commemorates
The anniversary looks back to 1957, when Piaget introduced the hand-wound 9P. Piaget’s official Altiplano history traces the family’s thin-movement lineage from the 9P to the automatic 12P in 1960, then to the 1200P and 1208P in 2010. The 2017 anniversary watches use later calibers, not the original 9P or 12P.
The initial wristwatch pair translates that history into two distinct formats: a smaller, hand-wound watch and a larger automatic. Both are white gold, but their size, movement, caseback and edition count differ.
How the 38 mm and 43 mm versions differ
| Feature | 38 mm manual-wind | 43 mm automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Movement and winding | Piaget 430P, manual-wind; 2.1 mm thick with a 43-hour power reserve, according to Hodinkee’s December 2016 launch coverage | Piaget 1200P, automatic; 2.35 mm thick, according to Time+Tide’s January 2017 review |
| Case | 38 mm, white gold | 43 mm, white gold; 5.25 mm overall thickness, according to Time+Tide’s January 2017 review |
| Dial | Not stated in the cited Hodinkee launch report | Blue sunburst with a pale-blue crosshair detail, as described by Time+Tide |
| Caseback | Solid | Sapphire display back |
| Edition size | 460 pieces, per Hodinkee’s December 2016 launch report | 360 pieces, per Hodinkee’s December 2016 launch report |
| Original US launch price | $17,900, as reported by Hodinkee in December 2016; historical launch price, not a current price or resale valuation | $23,900, as reported by Hodinkee in December 2016; historical launch price, not a current price or resale valuation |
The central practical distinction is not simply five millimeters of diameter. The 38 mm model pairs a manual movement and closed back with proportions Hodinkee’s Jack Forster considered more directly connected to earlier Altiplano designs. The 43 mm instead offers automatic winding and a view of its movement through the display back, alongside a larger dial presence. Forster also called the larger version striking; those comments are his design impressions, not universal judgments about wrist fit.
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- Two-piece tan genuine leather strap with natural stitching
- Silver-tone buckle & hardware
- Designed to fit watches with 20mm lug width
- Fits wrist circumferences of 6 to 8 inches
What the 43 mm watch is like to wear
Time+Tide’s Felix Scholz reviewed the 43 mm automatic hands-on. He wrote, “I found this a particularly pleasing watch to wear.” He also observed that the large dial gives the watch wrist presence despite its slim 5.25 mm case.
Scholz describes the blue sunburst dial as shifting from cool grey to a richer blue depending on the light, with the pale-blue crosshair adding detail. These are his observations of the watch, rather than a claim that the dial will look identical in every setting. The combination is the larger model’s defining visual trade-off: a broad, noticeable face set in an unusually thin case.
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- Back-to-Front Skeletonized: Breaking away from tradition, CIGA design introduces an innovative skeletonized bridge and base plate, expanding visible mechanics by 200%. Encased in a 360-degree fully transparent design, it offers an unhindered view of every intricate detail. More than a watch, it’s a dynamic interplay of art and engineering.
- Three-layered Octagonal Tonneau: A three-layered octagonal tonneau case blends bold, angular geometry with sleek, flowing lines—designed for those who lead, create, and refuse to settle. Forged from DLC-coated 316L steel, this sleek case blends geometric form with rugged durability.
- In-house Caliber CD-07: Crafted in-house over 90 days, this movement delivers precision with chamfered bridges and a satin-like finish.Striking the perfect balance between reliability and artistry, the in-house CD-07 automatic caliber marks a breakthrough in mechanical craftsmanship.
- Innovative Anchor-Shaped Rotor: Visible through the caseback, the anchor rotor stores energy while symbolizing control and resilience. The Hunter's signature anchor-shaped rotor, both functional and artistic, transforms winding into a visual spectacle, efficiently storing energy and reflecting the wearer's pioneering spirit.
- Tapered H-Link Steel Bracelet: Designed with a hidden clasp and quick-release, this bracelet offers a seamless fit and effortless changes.Forged from 316L stainless steel—renowned for its strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and hypoallergenic properties—and finished with DLC coating, delivering exceptional hardness, scratch resistance, and a refined matte finish.
The anniversary collection extended beyond the two wristwatches
The 38 mm manual and 43 mm automatic were the principal wristwatch editions, not the entire anniversary program. Revolution Watch reported a separate 26-piece pocket watch in a 50 mm white-gold case, also using the 1200P movement. It came with a blue calfskin loop and pouch, plus a blue straw-marquetry desk stand. That pocket watch is a distinct edition, not a third wristwatch size.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the available facts do—and do not—establish
The cited coverage documents the watches’ launch specifications and the reviewer’s experience of the 43 mm automatic. It does not establish current availability, present-day market or resale prices, water resistance, or servicing intervals. The 2016 US prices above are useful as launch context only; they should not be used as a guide to what either watch costs today.
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- Two-piece tan genuine leather strap with natural stitching
- Silver-tone buckle & hardware
- Designed to fit watches with 20mm lug width
- Fits wrist circumferences of 6 to 8 inches
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- Two-piece tan genuine leather strap with natural stitching
- Silver-tone buckle & hardware
- Designed to fit watches with 20mm lug width
- Fits wrist circumferences of 6 to 8 inches
Rank #3
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
