- 2023 marks the year Mr François-Henry Bennahmias leaves Audemars Piguet. Ever since his appointment as CEO, the firm has enjoyed an era of unprecedented growth and unparallel commercial success. The legend was responsible for countless high-profile moves, including the launch of exciting collaborations and exclusive limited editions like the present ref. 26168SR.OO.1220SR.02.

- Created for a nation where the Genta-design is highly coveted, the Royal Oak “Pride of China” is a 500-piece limited edition in stainless steel and pink gold, notably encrusted with The Great Wall of China on the caseback. While 250 examples are fitted with black dials, the other 250 pieces are graced with opaline white dials, as per the present timepiece. Released in 2008, the “Pride of China” is second in line in the “Pride” series, with Russia (2005) in front, followed by Mexico (2010), Argentina (2010), Thailand (2013), Indonesia (2015), Siam (2015) and most recently, Germany (2019).

- The indications on the dial are displayed in a pleasant asymmetric layout, featuring the power reserve between 1 and 2 o’clock, the date at six and the moon phases at ten. The signature Tapisserie center is surrounded by a grained chapter ring, highlighting the applied pink gold lume-filled hour markers and the AP logo at 12 o’clock. Celebrated for their attention to detail, Audemars Piguet substituted the lucky number “8” into the indexes as a nod to Chinese culture. In Mandarin, the number “八” (pronounced “ba”) is considered the luckiest of numbers as it sounds very similar to “發” (pronounced “fa”), which ultimately means wealth and prosperity.

- Offered in excellent overall condition, the present two-tone Royal Oak “Pride of China” is not just an exquisite, rare, practical timepiece, but can also be worn as a talisman that brings its wearer good luck and fortune.