Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 2007 Reference No: 26170ST Movement No: 689'753 Case No: G43559 and 5532 Model Name: Royal Oak Offshore "Safari" Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 3126/3840, 59 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Audemars Piguet alligator strap Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp Dimensions: 42mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, strap and clasp signed Accessories: Accompanied by unstamped and undated Audemars Piguet Certificat de Garantie & d'Authenticité, instruction booklet, fitted wooden presentation box and outer packaging
Catalogue Essay
Launched in 1972, the Royal Oak revolutionised the watch market with the concept of a luxury sport’s watch in steel - something previously unseen and deemed to fail (and thus bringing down Audemars Piguet with it) by many observers at the time. As we know, history went in a diametrically opposite way, so much so that a chronographic, more rugged version of the model was introduced in 1992: the Royal Oak Offshore.
Produced in many variations, the present example of Royal Oak Offshore is nicknamed “Safari”, a nod to its rugged and sporty appearance, boosted by the hornback crocodile textured strap. Another feature praised by collectors is the ivory dial, granting the watch a very suave, and nearly vintage vibe.
Offered in practically unused condition, the present piece is furthermore accompanied by its original Guarantee and box.
A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.
Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.