The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one of the most iconic wristwatch designs of the 20th century. Designed in one night by Gerald Genta, it was introduced in 1972, during the depths of the quartz crisis, and was the most expensive steel watch ever offered to the public. So audacious was its concept, Audemars Piguet’s competitors were sure the watch would bankrupt the company, however the model has become an icon and fan favourite for its rugged, masculine, and sporty aesthetic. Since its introduction, the brand has produced many iterations of the Royal Oak, experimenting with different case sizes, materials, dial treatments, and complications.
The Royal Oak Tourbillon Extra-Thin was released in 2012 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the model, and is one of the few Royal Oaks with a manually wound movement. An Audemars Piguet boutique exclusive, the present model reference 26510IP is most notably cased in platinum and titanium. It was released in 2017 in a limited edition of only 50 pieces and was met with admiration and accolades from the collecting world.
The "IP" - as the present watch is nicknamed by collectors (as reference to the last two letters of its reference number meaning titanium and platinum) - represents the continuation, or according to some collectors the pinnacle, of this path. In its case, the collector finds the mix - as idiosyncratic as it is potent - of two opposing metals: ultra light and technical titanium for the case and bracelet links and heavy and luxurious platinum for the bezel and central links. It is incredible how two polar opposites such as these metals manage to perfectly blend together for a supremely attractive final result.
Offered in fantastic condition, it is furthermore accompanied by its Audemars Piguet International Warranty Card, product literature, presentation box and outer packaging.