Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 26320 Luxury Watch Review

Watchuwant is now WatchBox! Subscribe for the best luxury watch content. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph offers a solution for those who like the muscle of the Royal Oak Offshore but prefer a package that retains the essential proportions of Gerald Genta’s seminal 1972 Royal Oak. With a 41mm stainless steel case, an automatic chronograph, and a profile that would make Genta himself proud, the Royal Oak Chronograph is a “just right” blend of AP’s “Royal Oak” and “Offshore.” While the original Royal Oak preceded the 1993 Offshore by over two decades, the Offshore itself debuted several years ahead of the Royal Oak Chronograph. Not launched until 1997, the Royal Oak Chronograph filled a final gap in Audemars Piguet’s sports watch line; a more imposing Royal Oak complication for those who didn’t quite feel the urge to “Go Offshore.” As of 2012, the reference 26320ST sees the Royal Oak Chronograph follow the 15400ST’s adoption of a 41mm case. In fact, the standard Royal Oak and Royal Oak Chronograph are almost indistinguishable with one’s eyes closed. The 15400ST measures 9.8 mm thick; the Chronograph is only 10.8mm thick. Standard Royal Oak bracelet, clasp, and lug dimensions do not change on the Royal Oak Chronograph, and the famous Genta octagonal bezel retains its white gold bolts (the Offshore employs steel). An Audemars Piguet “waffle” or “hobnail” black dial exhibits the “petite tapisserie” cut pattern that is reserved for the traditional Royal Oak models. Pro