INDEFINABLE REDEFINED

9th March 2017

When the Royal Oak Offshore first hit the ground in the early ’90s it was highly advanced and ultra-modern, and looking at the latest pieces from Audemars Piguet nobody could suggest they’ve altered their approach. They have continued to adapt their designs, and to use only the finest materials in their luxury timepieces. They also remain one of the oldest watchmakers to have established themselves in the Valée de Joux, and have been making their own movements entirely in-house from the very start.

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No one can deny that first impressions count, and this timepiece certainly makes itself known! The 44mm case is crafted from ceramic, a highly durable material that requires much more watch-making skill than traditional substances, and gives a beautiful black finish. The bezel is also ceramic and is set with sapphire crystal, while the case-back (which also houses a sapphire crystal) is made out of titanium. Visible through this glare-proofed case-back is the 22-carat gold monobloc self-winding rotor, which is also engraved with the Audemars and Poguet family crests. The black dial features Audemars Piguets iconic “Méga Tapisserie” pattern, and is complemented by the blue highlighted Chronograph counters.

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In-keeping with Audemars Piguets commitment to using only the finet materials, this timepiece displays a stunning combination of black ceramic and 18-carat pink gold. At 44mm the pink gold case of the Offshore is sure to suit most wrists, and the ceramic bezel offers a welcome contrast. The dial of this timepiece also utilises the “Méga Tapisserie” pattern, and compliments this with pink gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands. Rather than supplying this timepiece on a traditional leather strap or gold bracelet, Audemars Piguet have displayed their ability to move with the times and chosen a stylish (and practical) black rubber strap with a pink gold pin and buckle clasp. The movement in all three of these models is the 3126/3840, which is made up of 365 parts, uses 59 jewels and offers 50 hours of power reserve.

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Last but not least we have yet another unconventional material choice! The case of this timepiece is, like the two other models, 44mm in diameter, and this time is made of titanium. Titanium is an incredibly light and hard-wearing metal, which makes it ideal for us in watch-making. Ceramic is once more the material of choice for the bezel, and the monochrome theme created by this contrast is extended to the dial, on which the “Méga Tapisserie” pattern is finished in slate grey. The strap is once more rubber, but is finished in a beautiful grey and fastened by a titanium pin and buckle clasp. Like the other two models this timepiece offers 100m of water resistance, courtesy of a ceramic screw-locked crown. The chronograph push-pieces are also finished in ceramic and are protected by titanium push-piece guards.

Audemars Piguet watches are available online and in our Argyll Arcade boutique.

When the Scottish Open tees off this July, there will be one particular wristwatch lurking in most of the top players’ lockers back at the Gullane clubhouse. Darren Clarke, Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Henrik Stenson will have all de-wristed their treasured Audemars Piguet Royal Oaks before taking to the hallowed greens.