After the release of the new generation of Royal Oak Offshores in 42 mm at the SIHH 2014, when the watches were fitted with a display case back, ceramic crown and pushers, new dials, beefier crown guards and new straps, two new models made their appearance at the SIHH 2018. This time, two 42 mm Royal Oak Offshores have been fitted with ceramic bezels. The two new models are reference 26470IO.OO.A006CA.01 in titanium with grey ceramic bezel that here at WCL we have nicknamed the 'Monochrome' and a second reference which we have here is ref. 26470SO.OO.A002CA.01 in stainless steel with black ceramic bezel that we have nicknamed the 'Black Knight'.

The Dial & Bezel

The New Two-Tone Rubber Strap

In addition to the ceramic bezels that everyone was eager to see one day on the 42 mm Offshores, these two new watches have been fitted with a redesigned two-tone rubber strap that features one color on the top and a contrasting color on the sides and the inside. While the new strap is really eye-catching, we don't like its luster as it is somewhat shiny and thinner than the usual rubber straps from AP.

The Movement

Like all other modern Royal Oak Offshores released after 2007 —with the exception of the Rubber Clad—, the Offshore 'The Real Batman' is powered by the calibre 3126/3840 —based off the Audemars Piguet in-house automatic calibre 3120 with a Dubois Depraz chrono module on it. The movement is fully visible via the display case back, also a new feature on the second generation of 42 mm Royal Oak Offshores released at the SIHH 2014. This automatic movement composed of 365 parts, beats at a frequency of 21,600 vph —3 Hz— to provide a power reserve of 50 hours. This 59-jewel movement, also features the signature solid gold oscillating weight engraved with the crests of the Audemars and Piguet families.

On the Wrist & Pricing

The new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 42 mm with Ceramic Bezel a.k.a 'Dark Knight' ref. 26470SO looks great and the ceramic bezel makes it pop even more. While the look of the strap is really nice and makes the watch sexier, the shiny finish of it is something we really didn't like much as we are used to the matte finished straps from AP. Other than that, this new Royal Oak Offshore is pure fire.

 Sticker Price $28,000 USD. For more info Audemars Piguet click here.