The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore is a watch that has been around for over 25 years. It was introduced in 1993 as a larger and more robust version of the Royal Oak. Since then, it has become a symbol of the brand’s innovation and creativity. One of the materials that Audemars Piguet has been using in the Royal Oak Offshore is ceramic. This material is known for its durability and scratch resistance, but also for its aesthetic appeal. Audemars Piguet now unveiled two new models that showcase the possibilities of ceramic: the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph in 43 mm with a black case and green accents, and the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph in 42 mm with an all-black design. Let’s take a closer look at these two new additions to the collection.
The new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in ceramic comes in two different sizes and designs. The first model has a 43 mm case made of black ceramic, with a bezel, crown and pushers in green ceramic. This is a first for this diameter. The titanium caseback frame, push-piece guards and bracelet studs provide a contrast to the dark hues. The second model features a 42 mm case, entirely made of black ceramic, with the exception of the eight hexagonal screws in steel and the AP monogram. Both watches are water-resistant up to 100 meters and have glareproofed sapphire crystals. The 43 mm model has a heigth of 14.4 mm while the 42 mm model comes in at 15.3 mm in height. The use of ceramic not only gives these watches a unique look, but also makes them more resistant to scratches and wear. Moreover, Audemars Piguet pays special attention to the finishing of the ceramic components, ensuring that they receive the same level of hand-finishing as precious metals.
The dials reflect the distinctive design language of the collection. The 43 mm model features a dark green PVD dial with the iconic Méga Tapisserie pattern, complemented by a black inner bezel and matching snailed counters at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. The 18-carat white gold hands and hour-markers, filled with luminescent material, are rendered in a silver-grey shade, adding a touch of elegance to the sporty look. In contrast, the 42 mm model showcases a monochromatic design with a black PVD dial, black inner bezel and snailed counters at 6, 9 and 12 o’clock. The dark grey tachymeter scale and chronograph indications are paired with blackened 18-carat white gold hands and baton hour-markers, both filled with grey luminescent material. This creates a cohesive and understated aesthetic that emphasises the watch’s technical features. Both dials also include a date window at 4:30 and 3 respectively.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph is powered by the brand’s latest integrated selfwinding chronograph movements. The 43 mm model is equipped with the Calibre 4401, while the 42 mm model features the Calibre 4404. Both movements are notable for their flyback function, allowing the wearer to reset and restart the chronograph without having to stop it first. The column wheel and vertical clutch system ensure smooth operation of the chronograph hands, without any jumping. Additionally, a patented zero resetting mechanism ensures that the chronograph hands take the shortest way back to zero. The movements are visible through the sapphire crystal casebacks and showcase refined decorations such as Côtes de Genève, circular graining and polished chamfers. The dedicated 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight, rendered in dark grey for the 43 mm model, adds an extra touch of luxury. With a minimum power reserve of 70 hours and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, these movements combine technical mastery with traditional watchmaking.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in ceramic comes with different strap options, depending on the model. The 43 mm model features an interchangeable dark green textured calfskin leather strap with a titanium pin buckle, as well as an additional black rubber strap. The leather strap adds a touch of elegance to the watch, while the rubber strap enhances its sporty character. The 42 mm model, on the other hand, is equipped with a black ceramic bracelet that complements the watch’s monochromatic design. The bracelet features three-blade folding clasp in titanium, ensuring secure and comfortable wear.
The watches are part of the brand’s permanent collection and will be available at authorised retailers worldwide. However, due to the high demand and limited production of Audemars Piguet watches, interested buyers should contact their local retailer for more information on availability. Prices are 57,700 euros for the 43 mm model with green accents and 85,900 euros for the 42 mm all-black ceramic model.
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