AUDEMARS PIGUET | A Timepiece Embodying a Philosophy of Watchmaking

AUDEMARS PIGUET

A Piece Embodied with Audemars Piguet's Watchmaking Philosophy

Audemars Piguet's signature sports watch, the "Royal Oak Offshore," has seen further evolution this year. The chronograph model has been completely renewed, and the case back is now transparent, allowing the traditional movement to be admired visually.

Text by SHIBUYA Yasuhito

The Latest Masterpiece from a Legendary Concept Model

The face of Audemars Piguet, one of Switzerland's three major watch brands, is undoubtedly the "Royal Oak," the originator and epitome of luxury sports watches, whose appeal was further re-evaluated as it celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2012.

While 2013 saw a focus on its more robust sibling, the "Royal Oak Offshore," Audemars Piguet continues its focus on the "Royal Oak Offshore" this year as well. The chronograph model has been entirely revamped, evolving from the 26170 series to the 26470 series.

The most significant changes are the comprehensive upgrade of the dial, featuring the "Mega Tapisserie" motif that has been a hallmark since the Offshore's debut in 1995, and the introduction of a transparent case back. The latter, in particular, allows for the visual appreciation of the hand-engraved 22K gold automatic winding rotor and the traditional movement, which were previously hidden from view.

Furthermore, for fans of complex timepieces, the minute repeater model of the "Millenary," equipped with Audemars Piguet's proprietary next-generation escapement, the "AP escapement," is not to be missed.

However, the piece that OPENERS readers should pay particular attention to among this year's new releases is the "Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon." Since the first model appeared in 2002 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the "Royal Oak," this limited collection has led the watch world with its innovative materials and avant-garde mechanisms, and this is its latest iteration.

This new model, the fourth generation, offers a finish that particularly evokes a sense of continuity with the very first model among its predecessors. There is no other timepiece that so profoundly conveys Audemars Piguet's philosophy of watchmaking, which is characterized by both advanced thinking and a sincere commitment to long-term vision.