First Look

Audemars Piguet: Royal Oak

By The Watches of Switzerland Group | 1 minute read

This year marks Audemars Piguet’s final time exhibiting at the Geneva salon, and fittingly, the Swiss brand marked the occasion by unveiling an entirely new collection, the Code 11.59, which pays homage to its legendary Royal Oak. Though that was the biggest conversation-starter, it was a new Royal Oak model that especially caught our eye.

On its launch in 1972, the Royal Oak became the world’s first steel luxury sports watch and, over the years, it’s cemented its status as a horological icon. What’s most surprising about the 13 models in the new Code 11.59 collection is that each is entirely round, only subtly evoking the hexagonal case shape made popular by its famous predecessor.

We were especially taken with the new Royal Oak Selfwinding model – a head-turning 41mm timepiece cast entirely in 18-carat rose gold

Sticking with what it does best, however, Audemars Piguet did also add a number of references to its famous signature line, and we were especially taken with the new Royal Oak Selfwinding model – a head-turning 41mm timepiece cast entirely in 18-carat rose gold. Its black dial features a simple but effective Grande Tapisserie pattern, with contrasting rose-gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands with a luminescent coating. Just 200 pieces will be made and we’re excited to say that examples will be available at Watches of Switzerland in the UK, £44,700.

Audemars Piguet: Royal Oak

Sign Up For Calibre Newsletter