Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: 1997 Reference No: 25721PT Movement No: 449'745 Case No: D-95704 and 007 Model Name: Royal Oak Offshore Material: Platinum Calibre: Automatic, cal 2226/2840, 54 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Platinum Audemars Piguet bracelet Clasp/Buckle: Audemars Piguet platinum double deployant clasp Dimensions: 42mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet Certificat d'Origine et de Garantie stamped by Lagos, Nigeria retailer Danatec Ltd and dated April 22, 1997 and one additional Certificat d'Authenticité et d'Exclusivité.
Catalogue Essay
Part of a 25 pieces limited edition, the present watch is one of the most outlandishly luxurious creations ever seen in watchmaking. With a weight approaching half a kg - most of it due to the gargantuan solid platinum case and bracelet - it is one of the most massive timepieces ever serially made. Incredibly enough, it can be considered also one of the most “stealth” high end watches ever made: the massive size, the presence of the chronograph, and the playfully elegant deep blue/indigo dial all lead the untrained eye to mistakenly believe it to be a “simple” steel Offshore. The mistake however becomes apparent when picking up the piece.
Offered in absolutely unpolished condition, it is accompanied by its original certificate and an additional certificate of authenticity, which further increases the appeal and collectability of this remarkable and astounding timepiece. The present watch is the only known platinum example - given the weight and the astronomical retail price, it comes as no surprise that the watch was probably not commercialized and that this watch was the only example made.
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.
