In 2002, Audemars Piguet joined forces with Ernesto Bertarelli to support the Swiss sailing team Alinghi in their race for the America’s Cup. Since their victory in 2003, Audemars Piguet has renewed its sponsorship and released the Royal Oak Offshore Alinghi Team Chronograph in 2007.
Developed with excellent shock resistance and water resistant to 100 meters, the timepiece has a “flyback” chronograph function as well as a 10-minute countdown function, both in keeping with the 10-minute race start rule. The dial reflects the nautical world, with counter hands shaped like the prow of a ship, the Alinghi logo at 3 o’clock and bright red accents to enhance its sporting spirit.
It was under the spearhead of Octavio Garcia, the artistic director of Audemars Piguet between 2002 and 2015, that the Royal Oak Offshore Alinghi Team Chronograph was developed. This exceptional timepiece was the first watch ever to flaunt forged carbon, chosen for its excellent resistance and lightness. Part of a limited edition of 2,007 pieces, the chronograph was available entirely in forged carbon, in pink gold and carbon, or platinum and carbon.
At first glance, the present timepiece seems to be part of the regular edition. Yet, don’t be fooled by its looks. Part of Octavio Garcia’s personal collection, it is the original prototype that would eventually launch the Royal Oak Offshore Alinghi Team Chronograph model. Distinguishing itself from the regular production with an aluminum caseback, the present prototype adorns a caseback in forged carbon representing the Alinghi team at sea. Furthermore, no limited-edition number is present on the caseback. Interestingly, most examples from 2007 feature a G serial number, whereas the present watch presents a P serial number.
Not only a piece of Audemars Piguet long, avant-garde history, but also a token of Alinghi’s second win of The America’s Cup in July 2007, the present lot will delight the collector in search of a wristwatch embodying success and audacity.
