Piaget ‘Ribbed’ Hexagonal 9697C510 - 18K Yellow Gold - Ribbed Onyx Stone Dial

Piaget has long been celebrated for its distinctive approach to fine watchmaking, combining technical refinement with an unmistakable sense of elegance and design. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Maison explored increasingly expressive forms, precious materials, and integrated bracelet designs, creating timepieces that stood apart from traditional watchmaking conventions. The present Piaget reference 9697C510 is a remarkable expression of this philosophy, bringing together an elegant oval case, an integrated Yellow Gold bracelet, and a highly distinctive stone-set dial.

Measuring approximately 27 mm in diameter, the watch features an elegant oval case crafted entirely in 18K Yellow Gold. Its compact proportions and sculptural profile reflect Piaget's ability to transform the wristwatch into an object of refined jewellery, while maintaining the discreet sophistication for which the Maison is renowned. The case flows seamlessly into the integrated Yellow Gold bracelet, creating a harmonious and continuous silhouette around the wrist.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of the present example is the pronounced ribbed motif that defines the bracelet. Repeated across its individual links, the textured pattern creates a subtle interplay between light and shadow, giving the solid gold bracelet a rich and dynamic appearance. This design language is echoed on the dial, establishing a strong visual connection between the watch head and bracelet and enhancing the sculptural character of the entire composition.

The hexagonal dial is crafted from natural Onyx, a material particularly appreciated in fine jewellery and watchmaking for its intense black colour and deep, almost mirror-like appearance. Preserved in excellent condition, the stone remains free from visible signs, cracks, or imperfections, retaining the remarkable integrity of its original surface. A subtle patina acquired over time adds further character to the dial, emphasizing its natural materiality while remaining perfectly harmonious with the warm tones of the surrounding gold.

The combination of the black Onyx dial and Yellow Gold case creates a striking yet sophisticated contrast, while the hexagonal form of the dial introduces an additional geometric element to the otherwise fluid oval architecture of the case. This interplay of geometric shapes, precious metal, and natural stone is quintessentially Piaget, reflecting the Maison's historic ability to blur the boundaries between traditional watchmaking and high jewellery.

Weighing approximately 86.10 grams, the present example possesses a substantial and luxurious presence on the wrist. The Yellow Gold has developed a pleasant natural patina over the decades, lending the watch a warm and distinctive character while preserving the elegance of its original design.

With its unusual oval case, integrated ribbed Yellow Gold bracelet, exceptional Onyx dial, and beautifully preserved condition, the Piaget reference 9697C510 represents a particularly evocative expression of the Maison's design-led watchmaking. Combining precious materials with bold geometric forms and an unmistakable jewellery aesthetic, this remarkable timepiece embodies Piaget's ability to create watches that transcend conventional horology, standing equally as objects of fine watchmaking and wearable art.