Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Diamond Set – Ref. 26242OR.ZZ.1322OR.02
Introducing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Diamond Set (Ref. 26242OR.ZZ.1322OR.02), revealed in 2022 as a standout within the Royal Oak family. This full 41 mm piece in 18‑carat pink gold is fully lavish: the case, bezel, dial, and bracelet are set with brilliant‑cut diamonds, totaling over 8 carats. Powered by the advanced Calibre 4401 automatic chronograph with fly‑back, this watch blends sublime jewellery craftsmanship with horological mastery—a rare luxury for collectors.
Case, Bezel Bracelet
- Material Setting: Solid 18‑carat pink gold fully adorned with diamonds—1.884 ct on the case, 1.04 ct on the bezel, 0.95 ct on the dial, and 5.16 ct on the integrated bracelet—a total of 1,137 stones.
- Dimensions: A 41 mm diameter × ~12.4 mm thickness case, retaining everyday wearability despite its gem-set grandeur.
- Crystal Water Resistance: Glare‑proofed sapphire front and display back, with screw‑locked crown and 20 m water resistance.
Dial Hands
The fully diamond-set 18‑carat pink-gold dial is matched by pink‑gold chronograph counters and hands with luminescent coating. The applied hour markers reflect both the brilliance of the diamonds and the craftsmanship of AP’s gem setters.
Movement Functions
- Calibre 4401: In-house, fully integrated automatic chronograph with vertical-clutch and column-wheel architecture, 4 Hz frequency, 70‑hour power reserve, fly‑back function, central chronograph seconds, 30‑minute, 12‑hour counters, small seconds, and date.
- Display: Exhibition caseback reveals flawless movement finishing beneath a diamond-set CANVAS.
Unique Characteristics
This reference is distinguished by being one of the first Royal Oak chronographs fully encrusted with diamonds—from dial to bracelet—totaling over 8 carats of brilliant-cut stones. It marks the fusion of haute horlogerie and high jewellery, offering a bold status statement without compromising on mechanical integrity or ergonomic refinement.
Technical Summary
- Reference: 26242OR.ZZ.1322OR.02
- Case Bracelet: 18K pink gold, 41 mm × ~12.4 mm, 20 m WR; fully diamond‑set (total 1,137 stones, ~8 ct)
- Dial: Pink gold, diamond‑paved with pink-gold counters
- Movement: Calibre 4401 automatic, 4 Hz, ~70 h PR
- Functions: Fly‑back chronograph, date, small seconds
Collector Appeal
The Ref. 26242OR.ZZ.1322OR.02 redefines rarity and glamour within the Royal Oak chronograph lineage. Its extensive diamond setting elevates it to a jewellery watch while preserving the performance of Calibre 4401. Ideal for connoisseurs who appreciate both mechanical excellence and extravagant craftsmanship, this model commands attention at any gathering—and in any portfolio.
Conclusion
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Diamond Set Ref. 26242OR.ZZ.1322OR.02 is a superb demonstration of haute horlogerie meeting high jewellery. With its fully gem-set design, in-house fly-back chronograph movement, and refined proportions, it offers a rare blend of technical sophistication and luxurious presence—making it a coveted statement timepiece for the most discerning collectors.
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