Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph – Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.06
Introducing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph (Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.06), released in 2023 as the flagship stainless-steel chronograph under the updated Royal Oak design. Presented in a 41 mm stainless-steel case, this timepiece features a dramatic black “Grande Tapisserie” dial—paired with matching subdials—for a sleek and contemporary look. The latest-generation design enhancements combined with the in-house Calibre 4401 make this reference a definitive expression of modern horological craftsmanship.
Case Bracelet
- Material: Stainless-steel case, octagonal bezel, and integrated bracelet with brushed and polished finishing; secured by an AP folding clasp.
- Dimensions: 41 mm diameter × 12.4 mm thickness; proportioned for presence and ease of wear.
- Crystal Water Resistance: Anti-glare sapphire crystals front and back; water-resistant to 50 m.
Dial Hands
The matte-black dial features a textured “Grande Tapisserie” motif, complemented by tone-matched chronograph counters. White-gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands are filled with luminescent coating for optimal low-light legibility. The discreet date aperture between 4 and 5 o’clock maintains the dial’s symmetry.
Movement Functionality
- Calibre 4401: An integrated automatic chronograph with vertical-clutch and column-wheel architecture. Beats at 4 Hz (28,800 vph), with an impressive 70-hour power reserve.
- Complications: Features central chronograph seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour counters, small seconds, fly-back function, and date.
Unique Characteristics
Ref. 26240ST is distinguished by its full-steel execution paired with a bold black dial—a modern take within the Royal Oak chronograph lineage. It incorporates subtle yet meaningful enhancements: refined bezel bevels, broader bracelet links, and ergonomic design revisions introduced across the 2022–2023 Royal Oak line. The 4401 calibre numbered among the top-tier chronograph movements thanks to its fly-back and vertical-clutch features.
Technical Specifications
- Reference: 26240ST.OO.1320ST.06
- Case Bracelet: Stainless steel, 41 mm × 12.4 mm, 50 m WR
- Dial: Black “Grande Tapisserie” with tonal chronograph subdials
- Hands Markers: White-gold with luminescent coating
- Movement: Calibre 4401 automatic, 4 Hz, ~70‑hour power reserve
- Complications: Fly-back chronograph, date, small seconds
- Crystal: Sapphire front and exhibition back, anti-glare
Conclusion
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.06 fuses iconic design with contemporary innovation, offering a powerful blend of style, engineering, and investment-grade appeal. With its new-generation ergonomics, prestigious movement, and strong secondary market performance, it is an exceptional choice for collectors seeking a versatile and standout piece within the Royal Oak chronograph family.
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