# Piaget Polo 79 – A Golden Revival of Integrated‑Bracelet Elegance Piaget’s newest homage to its 1979 pioneer, the Polo 79, arrives as a full‑18 k gold, ultra‑slim sports watch that fuses case, dial and bracelet into a single, uninterrupted surface. With a 38 mm diameter, a mere 7.45 mm overall thickness and the brand’s thinnest automatic calibre, the 1200P1, the re‑edition is positioned as a high‑end collector’s piece that leans heavily on heritage while showcasing contemporary micro‑rotor engineering. Below we break down how the watch lives up to its lofty pedigree, where it falls short, and whether the €80 000 price tag can be justified. ## Design & Case The Polo 79 (reference G0A49150 / GOA4950) is crafted from solid 18 k gold, the same material Piaget used for the original 1979 model. Its case measures **38 mm in diameter** and **7.45 mm in thickness**, giving it a surprisingly substantial wrist presence for a watch that is technically “ultra‑thin.” The hallmark of the Polo line—continuous **satin‑brushed and polished gadroons**—runs unbroken from the integrated bracelet across the case and onto the dial, creating a fluid visual line that makes the watch look larger than its modest dimensions. The case is protected by a sapphire crystal on both front and back, a rarity that offers a clear view of the micro‑rotor movement while preserving the polished aesthetic. The bracelet itself is an integral part of the case; the links are finished in the same alternating brushed‑polish pattern, and a **butterfly clasp** secures the piece with a discreet, elegant mechanism. The overall finish has been praised for its “exceptionally high‑level and cohesive” quality, though close inspection reveals **visible borders** where the polished gadroons meet the case—a minor blemish that can be noticed by the most discerning eyes. Water resistance is rated at **50 m (5 bar)**, sufficient for everyday splashes but not intended for serious aquatic activities. The watch’s weight is notable, described by reviewers as having “the heft you expect from a gold bracelet watch,” which adds a sense of gravitas but may feel heavy for those accustomed to lighter titanium or steel sports pieces. ## Movement & Performance At the heart of the Polo 79 lies Piaget’s **calibre 1200P1**, an ultra‑thin automatic with a **micro‑rotor** that sits just **2.35 mm** thick. This movement is the technical centerpiece of the re‑edition, delivering a **44‑hour power reserve**—adequate for daily wear but modest compared with some of Piaget’s longer‑lasting calibres. The micro‑rotor design allows the movement to sit lower in the case, contributing to the 7.45 mm overall thickness while maintaining a respectable level of robustness. Accuracy figures have not been independently published, but Piaget’s in‑house finishing standards typically ensure a deviation within the -3/+5 seconds per day range for its automatic calibres. The calibre’s thin profile is a “technical masterpiece” according to the brand’s own literature, and the **display back** showcases the movement’s architecture, adding a visual bonus for enthusiasts. One drawback noted by reviewers is that the **self‑winding automatic** makes the re‑issue “substantially thicker” than the original quartz‑driven Polo 79, which measured just 2 mm thick. While the added thickness is necessary to accommodate the mechanical movement, it does shift the watch away from the ultra‑slim aesthetic that defined the 1979 model. ## On the Wrist Wearing the Polo 79 is an experience defined by its integrated bracelet. The seamless transition from case to bracelet eliminates the typical gap found on most sports watches, resulting in a **fluid wearing experience** that feels almost like a single piece of jewelry rather than a mechanical instrument strapped to the wrist. The **lug‑to‑lug length** is proportionate to the 38 mm case, offering a balanced spread that sits comfortably on most wrist sizes, though the gold construction does add noticeable weight. Comfort is further enhanced by the **butterfly clasp**, which distributes pressure evenly and prevents the bracelet from pinching. The watch’s **50 m water resistance** means it can survive rain and brief immersion, but it is not suitable for swimming or diving. The **heft** of the gold bracelet, while adding a sense of luxury, may be a consideration for those who prefer lighter sports watches for extended wear. In terms of presence, the Polo 79 “has a strong presence on the wrist,” projecting confidence and heritage. However, the **visible borders** between the polished gadroons and the case can become more apparent under certain lighting conditions, slightly detracting from the otherwise flawless integration. ## Value & Verdict Piaget positions the Polo 79 at roughly **€80 000 (incl. taxes)**, which translates to about **CHF 68 500**. This price places it firmly in the high‑end luxury segment, competing with limited‑edition integrated‑bracelet pieces from brands such as Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe. For the price, the watch offers: * **Full 18 k gold construction** with a seamless brushed‑polish finish. * **Piaget’s thinnest automatic movement** (calibre 1200P1) with a 44‑hour reserve. * **Sapphire crystal on both sides**, allowing a view of the micro‑rotor. * **Heritage design** that faithfully revives the 1979 original while adding modern mechanical prowess. The **primary criticisms** revolve around the steep price and limited production, which make acquisition difficult for most collectors. Additionally, the watch is **thicker** than the original and displays minor finishing inconsistencies (the visible gadroon borders). For buyers whose primary interest is the heritage story and the rarity of a full‑gold integrated bracelet, the Polo 79 delivers a compelling narrative and an exceptional finishing level. **Verdict:** The Piaget Polo 79 is a masterclass in marrying historic design with contemporary micro‑rotor engineering. Its integrated bracelet, flawless gold finishing, and ultra‑thin automatic make it a standout in the niche of high‑end integrated‑bracelet watches. However, the **€80 000 price tag** and the **modest 44‑hour power reserve** mean it is best suited for collectors who value heritage and exclusivity over everyday practicality. If you can afford the investment and appreciate the seamless aesthetic of a full‑gold, integrated piece, the Polo 79 stands as a worthy, if pricey, addition to a luxury watch wardrobe.