Hello everyone!
The full details of the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak have finally been revealed
2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak. What kind of evolution has it undergone? In this article, I would like to pick out and introduce some of the models that caught my eye. Please enjoy reading until the end.
What is "Royal Oak"?
Audemars Piguet is one of the world's top three watch brands.
The flagship model is the Royal Oak. It was released in 1972 and created a new genre of luxury sports watches, which has had a huge impact to this day. It is also famous for being the first in the world to use stainless steel.
※"Ref.5420"
The original Royal Oak, Ref. 5402, is nicknamed "Jumbo" because of its 39mm case diameter, which was large for the time. It is also equipped with Jaeger-LeCoultre's ultra-thin movement, Cal. 2121, which makes it only 8mm thick. This ultra-thin movement was also used in the Royal Oak Extra-Thin Ref. 15202ST.OO.1240ST.01, a reissue model of the Ref. 5402 that was released to mark the 40th anniversary of the birth of the Royal Oak.
In terms of design, the master Gerald Genta was responsible, and all of his models (such as the Nautilus) designed by him, who was called the "Picasso of the watch world," are currently very popular.
"Royal Oak" 50th Anniversary New Model
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
Audemars Piguet recently released a total of six models on their official website. They come in sizes 34mm, 37mm, 38mm, 39mm, and 41mm, and feature five new movements.
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
Both the automatic and automatic chronograph models feature a special "50th Anniversary" openwork 22K gold rotor and are engraved with [50 YEARS] [AUDEMARS PIGUET].
There are other minor upgrades as well, but for more details please see the Audemars Piguet official website.
[New Release ①]
『Royal Oak』「Jumbo」Extra Thin
"Ref. 16202ST.OO.1240ST.01"
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
First up is the successor to the Ref. 15202ST.OO.1240ST.01, which has been a hot topic since last year. It is equipped with the new Cal.7121 movement, and features a hand-finished steel case, night blue, and Cloud 50 "Petit Tapisserie" dial.
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
To be honest, it looks almost the same as the "Ref. 15202ST.OO.1240ST.01", but the dial color is night blue, giving it a more calming feel.
[New work ②]
"Royal Oak" Automatic "Ref. 15550ST.OO.1356ST.04"
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
Next, we will introduce the 37mm medium size. This one is also equipped with the new automatic movement "Cal. 5900". It has a rhodium-colored pink gold "50th Anniversary" rotor. This one also has a refreshing impression with its pale color that has not been seen in previous "Royal Oak" models, and it goes well with the 37mm size, and I think it has a very elegant finish.
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
The color is somewhat reminiscent of the ice blue of the Rolex Daytona.
[New Release③]
Royal Oak "Jumbo" Extra-Thin Openwork "Ref. 26735ST.OO.1320ST.01"
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
Finally, we would like to introduce the " Openwork " series that will impress any watch lover.
The skeleton version, which allows you to see the "Cal. 7124" from the front of the dial, has a rhodium-colored main plate and bridge that blends beautifully with the SS (stainless steel) case and bracelet. Another nice feature is that the "50th Anniversary" gold rotor, which matches the color, can be seen from the sapphire case back.
Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com
This one is also likely to become extremely popular...
Although the model is slightly different, the "Ref. 15407ST.OO.1220ST.01" double balance wheel openwork has been traded for over 20 million yen, so it's definitely one to keep an eye on if it appears on the secondary market.
summary
How was it?
I think the new Royal Oak models all have a strong sense of elegance and are very attractive. I can't help but think to myself, "I just want one of them..." (laughs)
And as always, the arrival of new products makes me excited. Just looking at a great watch makes me excited. From now until April, we will be entering a period of rumors about new products. We will continue to strive to provide you with the best information as quickly as possible.
see you!!