The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was a gamble. When it debuted in 1972, the watch world was reeling from the Quartz Crisis, and the idea of a luxury sports watch in stainless steel—priced higher than gold—was unheard of. Designed by Gérald Genta, its bold tonneau case, octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and integrated bracelet left collectors baffled. But the Royal Oak endured, transforming from an outsider into an icon. Today, its once-controversial design has become one of the most influential in watchmaking history, shaping everything from the Patek Philippe Nautilus to the Vacheron Constantin Overseas.
Fast forward to 2022, and Audemars Piguet celebrated the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary with a series of subtle yet thoughtful refinements. Among them, the Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26715ST.OO.1356ST.01—a watch that proves evolution is just as powerful as revolution.
Measuring 38mm, this new reference introduces a more compact case size to the Royal Oak Chronograph family, a move certain to resonate with collectors who appreciate the wearability of Genta’s original 39mm “Jumbo.”
The dial, finished in Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50, is a direct homage to the earliest Royal Oaks. The "Grande Tapisserie" pattern adds depth, while luminescent white gold hour markers and hands provide balance.
One of the most notable design tweaks? The removal of the “AP” logo at 12 o’clock. The result is a dial that breathes—cleaner, more refined, a subtle nod to the less cluttered aesthetics of early Royal Oaks.
The stainless steel case retains its razor-sharp lines and iconic octagonal bezel, secured by eight polished screws. Inside, the Caliber 2385 beats away—a self-winding movement with a 40-hour power reserve, ensuring reliability with every wear.
