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110

Audemars Piguet

Ref. 26290IO

Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix

A fine and rare titanium, forged carbon and ceramic limited edition chronograph wristwatch with date

Read Conditions of Sale
Audemars Piguet first introduced the Royal Oak in 1972. Designed by Gerald Genta, the watch has captivated collectors and is one of the most important sports models ever created. The Royal Oak Offshore takes inspiration from the original Royal Oak design, and was first introduced in 1993 to celebrate the firm's 20th anniversary. At the time of the Offshore's launch, the 42 millimeter case raised some eyebrows and received some mixed reviews. Today, over 20 years later, the watch enjoys immense popularity. The brand has successfully launched other limited edition models such as the Shaq, Terminator and Michael Schumacher offshore editions, which are highly collectable today.

The following three lots are part of the Grand Prix series, made in very limited numbers. These models incorporate forged carbon and ceramic with precious metal cases. This limited edition series was presented at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in 2010. The design inspiration comes from former formula one models, created for the likes of Juan Pablo Montoya and Michael Schumacher. The Grand Prix model features many racing inspired elements such as the 30 minute register evoking dashboard instruments, and the bezel stimulating air ventilation.

The following three lots pay homage to the Royal Oak offshore and are presented in like-new condition.

The present watch is numbered 966 of a limited edition of 1750 pieces only.

Audemars Piguet

Swiss | 1881

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.

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