The year 1972 marked the birth of two legendary icons—the world-renowned former Ferrari and Formula One driver, Rubens Barrichello, and the launch of the watch that redefined luxury sports horology, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. 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 an ultimate Offshore for the serious Audemars Piguet collector.

Without a doubt, the design of the timepiece is full of automotive details inspired by the F1 racing world that pay tribute to the Brazilian F1 racing icon. Encased in 18K pink gold, titanium and ceramic, the watch features a Méga Tapisserie “racing” dial with applied hour markers, an open-worked center, a white tachymeter outer ring, and a bold red inner circle that altogether recall the Ferrari jacket in which Barrichello was often seen wearing. The case is further equipped with features that resemble components of a racecar: the ceramic bezel is secured by hex screws sunken into recessed wells that evoke a ventilated disc brake, the plots on the bracelet recall pedals, the crown is shaped like a cogwheel, the ceramic pushers mimic air extractors, and a wheel-shaped case back. Accompanied by its guarantee booklet and fitted presentation box, the present lot is offered in superb overall condition.