Manufacturer: Audemars Piguet Year: Circa 2000 Reference No: 25721ST/O/1000ST/01 Movement No: 494’380 Case No: E39’531, No. 2260 Model Name: Royal Oak Offshore “The Beast” Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 2126/2840, 51 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet bracelet, max length 185mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp Dimensions: 42mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed Accessories: Accompanied by Audemars Piguet warranty stamped Busse Germany dated 20th December 2000 and leather travel case.
Catalogue Essay
The Audemars Piguet 25721ST is a significant timepiece that holds a special place in the brand's history. It marks the beginning of the Offshore collection, which was created as a sportier and more robust version of the iconic Royal Oak watch. Unveiled at the Baselworld fair in 1993, the Emmanuel Gueit design caused quite a stir in the watch world due to its staggering proportions. At the time, a 42mm case was considered massive, and many watch enthusiasts were unsure of such a bold move. However, the watch's popularity soon soared, and it became a source of inspiration for many modern sports watches.
The 25721ST boasts a distinctive octagonal case, crafted from stainless steel. The dial features the classic "Tapisserie" pattern, which is a hallmark of the Royal Oak collection. The watch also has a chronograph function, with sub-dials for 30-minute and 12-hour counters. The self-winding Calibre 2126/2840 movement powers the watch and offers a power reserve of up to 55 hours.
The present example of this iconic model bears an “E” serial," boasting a highly desirable “tropical” dial that has aged gracefully over the years with an even and saturated tone. This aging process is the result of a reaction between the dial's lacquer and the environment, and it is impossible to predict which watches will exhibit this effect. To top it all off, this stunning timepiece is further accompanied by its original warranty, adding another layer of collectibility to an already exceptional piece.
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.