Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 2009 Reference No: 26284RO Movement No: 709'966 Case No: 043/275 and G59322 Model Name: Royal Oak Offshore Limited Edition Rubens Barrichello Material: 18K pink gold and ceramic Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2326/2840, 54 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: 18K pink gold Audemars Piguet deployant clasp Dimensions: 42mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
Catalogue Essay
Since the launch of the Royal Oak Offshore in 1993, Audemars Piguet has collaborated with a number of sports and celebrity legends to launch daring and imaginative offshore designs. To commemorate Barrichello’s remarkable racing career, Audemars Piguet released a collaborative series of limited-edition variations of the Royal Oak Offshore. The present reference 26284RO.OO.D002CR.01 was launched in 2008 as the third and final rendition. Limited to only 257 pieces, it is also considered one of the most striking Offshore models released.
The present watch is preserved in excellent condition and is numbered 43 of a 257 pieces limited edition series.
A specialist in the manufacture of complications since it was established in 1881, Audemars Piguet never ceases to impress with a rich history of creating bold, even audacious, timepieces underpinned by traditional watchmaking at its finest. This Le Brassus-based Swiss manufacturer is one of only two major manufacturers still owned by the founding family. Since its earliest days, AP is considered a leader in the field of minute repeaters and grande complication pocket and wristwatches. The brand is devoted to preserving the history of watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux, showcased at their superb museum in Le Brassus.
Today, the brand is best known for its Royal Oak models, a revolutionary luxury sports watch launched in 1972. Other key models include early minute repeating wristwatches, vintage chronograph wristwatches, such as the oversized reference 5020, perpetual calendar watches and the Royal Oak Offshore, first introduced in 1993.