For the first time in the collection, two of the new references are crafted in titanium, one of which is accented with a diamond-set bezel, a refined detail which also illuminates the third model in 18-carat pink gold. Expressed through assertive colour palettes and contrasting materials, these vibrant iterations channel the Royal Oak Offshore’s adventurous spirit and dynamic summer energy, while underscoring Audemars Piguet’s dedication to creating complicated timepieces that balance technical performance, comfort and intuitive daily wearability.
Calibre 6401, a leap in modernity
Developed entirely in-house over five years, Calibre 6401 entered the Royal Oak Chronograph collection earlier this year and now makes its debut in the 37 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph line, ensuring continuity and coherence across the brand’s offering. It replaces the longstanding Calibre 2385, a movement introduced in 1997 that quickly became a cornerstone of the Manufacture’s mechanisms for nearly three decades.
Like its predecessor, Calibre 6401 is a selfwinding integrated column wheel chronograph equipped with Audemars Piguet’s vertical clutch system that is protected by a patent relating to the synchronisation of the clutch levers. It also features a simplified architecture to reduce the number of components and eliminate unnecessary play. The result is a robust, reliable and responsive chronograph, requiring less pressure to activate the push-pieces. Delivering a 55-hour power reserve, this movement beats at a frequency of 4 Hz.
The introduction of this calibre brings subtle yet significant aesthetic evolutions to the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph. Most notably, the sapphire caseback now reveals the intricacies of the movement, inviting a direct connection between the wearer and the heart of the timepiece. From the back of the watch, the movement’s elegant finishings – including Côtes de Genève as well as alternating satin-brushed and polished surfaces – are visible alongside the dark grey-coloured, NAC-coated, 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.
By uniting Calibre 6401 with a new generation of 37 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph models, Audemars Piguet propels the collection into new horizons of design, savoir-faire and technical refinement, where bold aesthetics, vivid summer colours and cutting-edge engineering come together to perpetuate the Offshore’s bold and youthful spirit.
Reviving the Offshore's sporty and daring energy
This summer, the Royal Oak Offshore collection revives the daring and slightly provocative spirit of its 1993 launch. Designed by Emmanuel Gueit, the Royal Oak Offshore emerged from the creative explosion of the 1980s and the high-performance yacht races that inspired its name. Sporty and daring, its oversized proportions, exposed rubber gaskets and virile aesthetic earned it the nickname “The Beast”.
More than thirty years on, the Offshore is more alive than ever; always ready for a seaside escape on the French Riviera, a sporty afternoon at the beach or an adventure aboard a racing boat. A life in motion, driven by collective energy, self-confidence and the enjoyment of the present moment. Oversized and unapologetic about stealing the show, the Royal Oak Offshore remains a symbol of technical daring and bold self-expression, embraced by a new generation in search of thrills.
Fresh new colours bring Summer vibes
The three new variations introduce subtle yet significant design enhancements. The case is now slightly thinner than on previous models and fitted with a bezel curved from 6 to 12 o’clock. On the flanks, the push-pieces are complemented by redesigned push-piece guards with polished angles that flow seamlessly into the case middle. Particular attention has also been paid to the dial, which presents an evolution of the Tapisserie pattern with larger squares, new bathtub hands and small luminescent hour-markers on the inner bezel creating a subtle contrast with the enlarged Arabic numerals. The luminescent hour-markers on the pink and turquoise versions are white in the daylight and green in the dark, while the pink gold version has blue hour-markers in the day, which glow green at night. In addition, the date indication has been moved from 4:30 to 6 o’clock for visual harmony and enhanced readability. Lastly, these timepieces are fitted with interchangeable rubber straps featuring a stylish underside moulded with the AP monogram.
The trio’s first reference presents a case executed in titanium – a first in the 37 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph line. On the dial side, the turquoise Tapisserie motif, inner bezel and matching counters are complemented by rhodium-toned numerals and 18-carat white gold hands filled with white luminescent material. Completing the watch’s fresh, three-toned design, the rubber strap matches the colour of the dial.
Blending robustness and elegance, shimmering diamonds adorn the two remaining models. The titanium variation is accented by a stainless steel bezel set with 32 brilliant-cut diamonds (~1 carat) as well as a bright pink hue extending from the dial and inner bezel to the strap. Refined white details, such as the luminescent hands and numerals, ensure optimal legibility at all times.
Offering a contrasted aesthetic, the third iteration pairs a cool pastel shade with an 18-carat pink gold case – also illuminated by a diamond-set bezel (~1 carat). The light blue Tapisserie dial and inner bezel offer a sharp backdrop for the 18-carat pink-gold time indicators filled with matching blue luminescent material, while pink gold thread encircles the tone-of-tone counters, subtly elevating elegance.
Crafted for extreme sensations and thrilling pursuits on both land and sea, these new Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph watches channel the collection’s original spirit into a smaller and lighter format, while embracing relaxed summer energy with vivid hues and fine details.
“First launched in 1993, the Royal Oak Offshore emerged from the creative explosion of the ‘80s. Today, our new 37 mm references are powered by Calibre 6401 and brought to life through vibrant, summer colours that translate this spirit into a contemporary expression of a dynamic and individual style.” Ilaria Resta, Chief Executive Officer, Audemars Piguet.
