Released several years ago, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44 ref. 26401RO.OO.A002CA.01 in 18K rose gold quickly became one of the hottest rose gold watches amongst AP lovers and anyone else that wanted to own one of the 'Big Boy' watches from Audemars Piguet. Fitted with a larger and more robust case than the original Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph line, the AP ROO Chrono ref. 26401RO measures 44 mm in diameter and 14.12 mm in thickness.
Additionally, this reference is part of the first regular production —non-limited edition— AP Royal Oak Offshore Chronos to be fitted with a ceramic bezel and ceramic chrono pushers. Currently available in different metals —stainless steel, titanium and 18K rose gold—, different materials —white and black ceramic and a discontinued Forged Carbon— and different dial options, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44 in 18K rose gold ref. 26401RO —a.k.a Royal Oak Offshore Novelty— continues to be a favorite amongst those that want that ultimate 'in your face' AP flashy look.
Things You Need to Know
While today, there is now another 18K rose gold Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44 available, this dial particular black dial with off-white silvered chrono registers, seems to continue to be a favorite for most watch collectors. While the new reference ref. 26401RO.OO.A002CA.02 we featured here is also very nice, there is something about the readability and level of contrast on the dial of reference 26401RO.OO.A002CA.01 that makes it much more appealing and warm.
With Méga Tapisserie pattern, off-white silvered counters with rose gold surrounds, rose gold applied hour markers and hands with luminescent coating, the dial on the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44 ref. 26401RO.OO.A002CA.01 is very sporty thanks to its red hands and red accent on the chrono seconds hand.
The Movement
Powered by the same Audemars Piguet calibre 3126/3840 with 59 jewels and 365 parts that powers all other Royal Oak Offshore Chronographs including the 42 mm models, the movement is fully visible via the display case back. This automatic movement features a partially skeletonized galvanic coated oscillating weight and provides a power reserve of 60 hours when fully wound.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 44mm in 18K rose gold ref. 26401RO wears exactly like all other 44 mm Royal Oak Offshores but much heavier —approximately 220 grams— due to the dense nature of its rose gold case. Its black rubber strap much like the strap on the Royal Oak Offshore Diver is very comfortable, durable and in this case equipped with an 18K rose gold buckle with AP logo.
Now, if you feel that this 'Big Boy' AP is not flashy enough for you, you might want to consider the new Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44 'Summer Edition' with an 18K rose gold bezel and pushers and a stunning off-white silvered dial.
Sticker Price $45,900 USD. For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.
