Audemars Piguet introduces two new iterations of the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph, showcasing the brand’s continued exploration of ceramic as a material for high-end watchmaking. These timepieces, available in 43 mm (Ref. 26420CE.OO.A063VE.01 – UVP/€ 57.700) and 42 mm (Ref. 26238CE.OO.1300CE.02 / UVP/€ 85.900) case sizes, feature advanced selfwinding chronograph movements and a combination of ceramic, titanium, and sapphire components. The designs emphasize a balance between industrial robustness and meticulous hand-finishing, reflecting the brand’s commitment to precision and innovation.
The 43 mm model features a green Méga Tapisserie dial with a black inner bezel and snailed counters at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The dial is complemented by 18-carat white gold hands and hour-markers, filled with beige luminescent material for enhanced visibility. The 42 mm variant, on the other hand, presents a monochromatic black aesthetic with a black Méga Tapisserie dial, black inner bezel, and snailed counters at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock. The hands and hour-markers, crafted from blackened 18-carat white gold, are filled with grey luminescent material, maintaining a cohesive and understated design.
Both models are powered by Audemars Piguet‘s latest integrated selfwinding chronograph movements. The 43 mm reference houses the Calibre 4401, while the 42 mm model is equipped with the Calibre 4404. These movements feature a flyback function, allowing the chronograph to be reset and restarted without stopping it first. The column wheel, combined with a vertical clutch system, ensures smooth operation of the chronograph hands without any noticeable jumping.
Additionally, a patented zero-resetting mechanism ensures instantaneous resetting of the chronograph hands. The movements are visible through the sapphire casebacks, revealing refined decorations such as Côtes de Genève, circular graining, and polished chamfers. The 43 mm model includes a dark grey 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight, while the 42 mm model features a standard 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.
The 43 mm model is constructed with a black ceramic case middle, complemented by a green ceramic bezel, crown, and push-pieces. Titanium elements, including the caseback frame, push-piece guards, and bracelet studs, provide a contrasting finish. The case is water-resistant to 100 meters and features a glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback. The 42 mm model, in contrast, is entirely crafted in black ceramic, including the integrated bracelet. The case is secured with eight hexagonal screws in steel and features a titanium caseback frame and a ceramic and titanium screw-locked crown. Both models exhibit alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces, a hallmark of the Royal Oak Offshore collection.
The new Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph models exemplify Audemars Piguet’s mastery of ceramic as a material, combining advanced engineering with traditional craftsmanship. The integration of ceramic, titanium, and sapphire components, along with the sophisticated selfwinding chronograph movements, underscores the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation. These timepieces represent a harmonious blend of industrial robustness and meticulous hand-finishing, offering a contemporary interpretation of the Royal Oak Offshore’s iconic design.
