Among the watchmaking world’s Big Three, Audemars Piguet is a name not foreign to enthusiasts. Not only is it a standard for haute horlogerie, but it has also made great marks in the industry, especially the introduction of the Royal Oak by the 1970s that became the first luxury sports watch of its size and material. When the world’s idea of a luxury watch is small and thin, the then struggling-to-be-relevant Audemars Piguet had the audacity to bring the world the exact opposite, a Gerald Genta creation. Less noted but as remarkable is the introduction of the Royal Oak Offshore, which had lukewarm reception in the beginning and even a disclaimer from Genta. Designed by then 22-year-old Jacqueline Dimier, the Royal Oak Offshore became the oversized chronograph other brands desperately wanted to replicate but just couldn’t.
Compare AP Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Prices Online
Release date: 2014 (re-release)
Price: US$25,600 (steel and rubber strap), $26,000 (steel, hornback alligator strap), $40,700 (rose gold, strap), $69,200 (rose gold, bracelet)
The Offshore was supposedly Audemars Piguet’s answer to the tastes of the younger generation. While the design is nothing new now, back in 1993, the large sports chronograph was rather unheard of. Twenty-five years since its inception, the Offshore chronograph is still standing strong and attracting aficionados. The watches have been so far updated twice and is now offered in a myriad of colors and different straps.
Specifications:
- Caliber: 3126/3840
- Power reserve: ~50 hours
- Diameter: 13¼ lignes/29.92mm
- Frequency: 3Hz/21,600vph
- Jewels: 59
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Case dimensions (diameter x thickness): 42mm x 14.19mm
- Water resistance: 100 meters
Pros
The recent update on the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph is a welcome change, with the watches feeling more luxurious and bolder, and offered in more masculine options since it was first launched. One particularly notable revision is the inclusion of ceramic instead of rubber on the case, as the latter is often a source of complaint for its easily scratched surfaces. Another is the sapphire caseback, absent in previous versions, which now allows you to peek into the inner workings of the Offshore. The dial is stately and modern, and the details all complement one another, ensuring readability. The hands are especially nice, making telling time an easy task even with the complications on the watch.
Cons
Granted, the Offshore is not marketed as a small watch. In fact, it made history by being the opposite. But its thickness and accompanying weight are mostly undesirable traits for casual buyers, or even younger watch fans who are new to the brand. The price tag will potentially put off people too. Though marketed for younger buyers, 25 grand at the very least is still very expensive, which may make them opt for more affordable timepieces.
Compare With
- Omega Trésor
- Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Day-Date
- Blancpain Quantieme Retrograde 3653-2954-58B
- Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Small Model
Image credits: CARR Watches (featured image), Monochrome Watches, Watch Collecting Lifestyle, Chronos24, Audemars Piguet
