Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 2000 Reference No: 26300ST.OO.1110ST.06 Movement No: 695’455 Case No: G23’882, No. 0253 Model Name: Royal Oak Chronograph Material: Stainless Steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2385, 37 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max length 185mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet folding deployant clasp Dimensions: 39mm Diameter Signed: Dial, case, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
Catalogue Essay
With the first Royal Oak to feature a chronograph complication being not the traditional Royal Oak but the sportier Royal Oak Offshore in 1993, it was not until 1998 that Audemars Piguet introduced a chronograph version of the much admired Royal Oak. Featuring a thinner and smaller case than its Offshore cousin, the Royal Oak Chronograph provides the wearer a rather classic appeal. Introduced initially in a 39mm diameter case, the model transited to a slightly larger 41mm case in recent times to cater towards the trend of larger wristwatches.
The present example featuring a rare and appealing “panda” dial with attractive red accents measures at 39mm in case diameter. Preserved in excellent overall condition with very minimal signs of wear, the discontinued model is a fantastic iteration and a specimen of the much loved Royal Oak featuring a chronograph complication.
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.