Audemars Piguet is expanding its esteemed Royal Oak Offshore Diver series with a collection of three new models, each sporting a distinct, vivid color palette. These latest additions uphold the iconic design elements and robust functionality of their predecessors while introducing refreshing visual updates. The timepieces integrate the sophisticated in-house automatic Calibre 4308 movement, ensuring precision and reliability, and feature an innovative quick-release strap mechanism for enhanced versatility.
The Royal Oak Offshore, affectionately known as 'The Beast,' first emerged in 1993, presenting a more substantial and audacious interpretation of the classic Royal Oak. Inspired by the thrilling world of 1980s powerboat racing, the Offshore line diversified over time. In 2010, the collection welcomed its first diver's watch, characterized by its impressive 300-meter water resistance and the absence of a chronograph function. A significant refresh occurred in 2021, when the Royal Oak Offshore Diver models were upgraded with Audemars Piguet's proprietary Calibre 4308, a sapphire crystal case back, and the convenient quick-release strap system, cementing its status as a high-performance luxury dive watch.
While maintaining the familiar external dimensions of 42mm in diameter and 14.2mm in height, the newest generation of these diver watches introduces refined aesthetic details. A notable enhancement is the shift from rubber-covered crowns to more durable black ceramic, located at 3 and 10 o'clock for operating the movement and internal rotating bezel, respectively. Each model showcases a resilient stainless steel case, complemented by a raised, brushed octagonal bezel secured with eight polished screws, all contributing to the watch's robust and distinctive appearance.
Technically, the core mechanics remain consistent with previous iterations. However, the dial and bezel designs have been revitalized with contrasting, luminous colors, particularly highlighting the crucial 0-15 minute segment on the internal diving scale. Two variants feature black 'Méga Tapisserie' pattern dials, accented with bold turquoise or pink hues, alongside 18k gold hands and substantial, luminescent hour markers. These markers, redesigned in 2021, vary in length, with shorter ones denoting five-minute intervals and longer ones marking quarter hours. The classical edition distinguishes itself with a teal 'Méga Tapisserie' dial and a matching rubber strap, featuring a white luminescent zone on the diving scale and subtle pink gold accents on the crowns, indices, and hands.
The transparent case back proudly displays the Audemars Piguet Calibre 4308. This in-house automatic movement, initially introduced with the Code 11.59 series, operates at a frequency of 4Hz and provides a substantial 60-hour power reserve. Its intricate components are meticulously decorated with Geneva stripes, circular graining, and bevelled edges. The 22k pink gold rotor is treated with a blackened finish, offering a contemporary and sophisticated visual appeal.
A key feature retained in these new models is Audemars Piguet's tool-free interchangeable strap system, which allows for effortless strap changes via quick-release pushers on the strap's reverse side. This enhances the watch's adaptability, enabling wearers to customize their timepiece to suit various occasions and styles. The pricing for these vibrant new Royal Oak Offshore Diver models remains consistent with previous versions, set at EUR 30,100.
These latest releases by Audemars Piguet effectively merge the Royal Oak Offshore Diver's celebrated heritage of robust construction and diving prowess with an infusion of contemporary color and refined detailing. The commitment to maintaining the 4308 calibre and the convenient strap system underscores a dedication to both technical excellence and user experience, making these new vibrant additions appealing to enthusiasts and collectors alike.