Since introducing the Royal Oak Offshore in 1993, Audemars Piguet has released various versions combining different materials and colours. Recently, the brand presented two new limited-edition Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph models. Both versions come with a black ceramic case and either feature titanium or rose gold details for a high-contrast, sporty aesthetic. The models have an openworked dial, flying tourbillon, and flyback function. Only 50 pieces of each variation are available.
In 2021, Audemars Piguet introduced a 43 mm series for the Royal Oak Offshore line, characterised by its wider polished bevels on the flanks. The black ceramic case of these two variations also has a case diameter of 43 mm and measures 15.5 mm in height. The matching black ceramic bezel is vertically slightly curved and features stainless steel screws that contrast with its colour. Under the sapphire crystal, a black inner bezel with white indices displays a 60-second graduation.
Protected by the screw-down crown, the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph is water-resistant to a depth of 100 metres. The crown chip, push-piece guards, and lugs are made of satin-finished titanium or 18-carat rose gold to match the colour of the respective version. On the front and back of the timepiece, the anti-reflective sapphire crystal allows a closer look at the openworked dial and the intricacies of the movement. For example, the wearer can watch the movements of the 22-carat gold oscillating weight with black PVD coating carrying the elegant AP monogram through the open case back. In addition, the screw-down setting of the case back bears a ‘Limited Edition of 50 pieces’ engraving.
Although the case of the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph already features selected two-toned accents, the openworked dial showcases the bicolour design to its best advantage. Satin-finished and polished by hand, the openworked titanium bridges have a grey or rose gold PVD coating. They form geometric patterns that contrast the counters and flying tourbillon. Moreover, black PVD titanium inserts accentuate the shape of the bridges in both versions.
The top bridge features the engraved brand monogram at 12 o’clock. While the 30-minute counter is at 9 o’clock and the hour counter is at 3 o’clock, the flying tourbillon is at 6 o’clock. Depending on the version, the hour and minute hands are made of white or rose gold. In addition, both models have a white central chronograph hand.
The Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph offers a two-sided view of its centrepiece, the 2967 calibre. It provides the chronograph with a flying tourbillon and a flyback function. The wearer can activate the latter with a single press of the pusher. Thereby, the chronograph hand immediately resets and restarts.
The automatic movement oscillates at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and has a power reserve of 65 hours.
An integrated interchangeability system on the lugs and clasp allows for easy swapping of both models’ straps. Thus, the black rubber strap with a titanium or 18-carat rose gold folding clasp engraved with the brand’s monogram can be replaced with a hand-stitched, black alligator strap. The double-push system also offers a secure fit on the wrist. The price of the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph, each limited to 50 pieces, is available on request.
