Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph – Ref. 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02
Presenting the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph (Ref. 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02), introduced in 2022, this flagship 41 mm timepiece showcases a sumptuous solid rose‑gold case and bezel housing a bold black “Grande Tapisserie” dial with matching chronograph counters. Blending heritage design cues with modern mechanical innovation, this model delivers both haute horlogerie prestige and effortless elegance.
Case Strap
- Material: Fully polished and brushed 18 carat rose gold case and bezel featuring glare‑proofed sapphire crystals front and back, with a screw‑locked crown providing 50 m water resistance.
- Dimensions: A well-balanced 41 mm diameter and 12.4 mm thickness ensure notable wrist presence with comfortable wearability.
- Strap: Black alligator leather strap secured by an 18 carat rose‑gold AP folding clasp—an elegant alternative to the integrated bracelet, ideal for dress occasions.
Dial Hands
The espresso‑black “Grande Tapisserie” guilloché dial resonates with Royal Oak tradition, while its black chronograph subdials ensure cohesive visual harmony. Applied rose‑gold hour markers and iconic Royal Oak hands, featuring luminescent coating, deliver refined legibility in both daylight and low-light conditions.
Movement Chronograph Functionality
- Calibre 4401: Audemars Piguet’s in-house automatic chronograph calibre, operating at 4 Hz (28,800 vph), with an impressive 70‑hour power reserve.
- Features: Fly‑back Chronograph with central seconds, 30‑minute and 12‑hour counters, date display, and small‑seconds subdial—engineered for performance and stability via a vertical clutch and column-wheel mechanism.
Unique Characteristics
Ref. 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02 stands out as a luxurious take on the modern Royal Oak chronograph. Its rose‑gold case elevates its presence, while the departure from the integrated bracelet to an elegant alligator strap adds versatility and formal appeal. Designed with the latest Royal Oak case refinements—sharper bevels, broader proportions, and ergonomic updates—this model bridges tradition with contemporary sensibility.
Technical Summary
- Reference: 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02
- Case: 18 ct rose gold, 41 mm × 12.4 mm, 50 m WR
- Dial: Black Grande Tapisserie
- Hands Markers: Rose gold with luminescent coating
- Movement: Calibre 4401 automatic, 4 Hz, 70‑h power reserve
- Complications: Fly‑back chronograph, date, small seconds
- Strap: Black alligator leather, rose‑gold AP clasp
Collector Appeal
The 26240OR is an exquisite synthesis of bold sartorial elegance and technical mastery. As one of the first Royal Oak chronographs to marry full gold construction with the refined alligator strap, it appeals to collectors who seek formal versatility without sacrificing mechanical performance. With the robust Calibre 4401 inside, its wrist presence and functional sophistication are equally impressive.
Conclusion 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Ref. 26240OR.OO.D002CR.02 embodies refined luxury and technical pedigree. Offering a striking balance of rose‑gold elegance, high-performance calibre, and refined design enhancements, it represents a truly exceptional chronograph—it’s a watch for the modern connoisseur who demands both prestige and precision.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.