Why This Watch Matters This dress watch is not only impressively thin, it also looks killer thanks to its linen dial and chiseled case. The Full Story The reference 12372 was launched in 1961, one year after the unveiling of the groundbreaking automatic caliber 12P. The 2.3mm height of this movement fit nicely in slim dress watches, which previously could only rely on manual-wound calibers (like the renowned 9P caliber from Piaget). The secret of the 12P revolves around its solid gold micro-rotor, following the design from Buren and Universal Genève (although none had designed a bridge over the micro-rotor). The reference 12372 is notable for another reason: it is one of two waterproof references launched after the initial 12P case design found in the reference 12103. Its 34mm monobloc case (shared with the equally waterproof reference 12303) allowed for a higher water resistance, which meant more security for the dial and movement. This watch was nothing but the very best in the 1960s, and remains impressive more than 50 years later. The Fine Print Maker: PiagetModel: N/AReference: 12372Year: Early 1960sCase No: 84007Material: White goldDimensions: 34mm diameter; 5mm thicknessCrystal: NoLume: NoCaliber: Ultra-thin automatic caliber 12PBracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Smooth Black Calfskin strapLug Width: 18mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know The monobloc case of the reference 12372 allowed for a great preservation of the dial, which shows only light aging marks around the applied indexes. The engravings and gold hallmarks on the caseback are deep, and the case finishing still intact, which indicates that the case has probably never been polished. The ultra slim movement works well, and is wonderful to look at, with its characteristic micro-rotor. This is a stunning vintage dress watch with an interesting history to boot.
