Released in 2017 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chrono, reference 26331IP.OO.1220IP.01 is the ultimate bi-metal Royal Oak. Showcasing a combination of finishes, this Royal Oak Chronograph in Titanium and Platinum features a 41 mm titanium case with highly polished 950 platinum bezel and highly polished 950 platinum middle links on its bracelet.
The sophisticated construction of the Royal Oak bracelet uses parts that are all different in size. Arranged in diminishing order so as not to weight down the watch, they are graduated into seven different sizes, alternating bracelet links and connecting studs.
Each of these parts, is meticulously machined, pierced, polished and checked in order to fit together perfectly with no gaps or unevenness. For the bracelet on this new ref. 26331IP.OO.1220IP.01, Audemars Piguet has decided to add highly polished center links in 950 platinum to create a symphony of contrast and light refraction.
The slate grey dial with 'Grande Tapisserie' pattern, blue counters, white gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating is simply gorgeous and a perfect match for the monochrome tones of its titanium and platinum construction.
Because of the use of platinum on the bezel and on the bracelet's center links, the watch is actually slightly heavier —by 6 grams— than the stainless steel Royal Oak Chronograph, regardless of the use of titanium for its case. Total weight on the new Royal Oak Chronograph Titanium and Platinum is 187.7 grams versus 180 grams on the stainless steel model.
Powering the Royal Oak Chrono ref. 26331IP is the same calibre 2385 that powers all other Royal Oak Chronographs up to date. This automatic chronograph movement is based off of the legendary Frederic Piguet calibre 1185 and it provides a power reserve of 40 hours when fully wound. This watch is available in a limited edition of 500 pieces and is sold exclusively at the AP Boutiques.
Sticker Price $36,500 USD. For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.
