Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Automatic Chronograph 50th Anniversary Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.03 Luxurious Debut

Audemars Piguet, a legendary watchmaker, has unveiled a new 50th Anniversary Automatic Chronograph from the Royal Oak collection. The Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.03 embodies this iconic timepiece with a modern design language. Featuring a silver Grande Tapisserie dial and a dedicated 50th Anniversary rotor , this 41mm stainless steel chronograph elevates aesthetics and mechanical craftsmanship to new heights.

1. Watch Design: New Generation Upgrade and Exclusive Commemorative Elements

This commemorative model retains the Royal Oak’s signature octagonal bezel and Tapisserie pattern, while incorporating a new generation of design upgrades. The slimmer silhouette complements the dial design, showcasing elegant proportions. The silver Grande Tapisserie dial serves as the focal point, complemented by silver chronograph counters, luminescent white gold applied hour markers, and Royal Oak hands, creating a rich, layered effect under the refracting light. This model is particularly noteworthy for its exclusive 50th anniversary rotor , incorporating the commemorative significance into the movement, making it a highly sought-after feature among collectors.

2. Case and dial: stainless steel and detailed craftsmanship

Case specifications

Material : Made of high-quality stainless steel, both solid and luxurious

Waterproof depth : 50 meters, meeting daily waterproof needs

Size : 41mm diameter, a perfect size to fit most wrists

Mirror and bottom cover : Sapphire crystal glass with anti-glare treatment to ensure clear reading and movement appreciation experience

Crown : Screw-in design to enhance waterproof performance and operational stability

Surface details

The silver dial is engraved with the iconic “Grande Tapisserie” pattern, a technique first introduced by Audemars Piguet on the Royal Oak in 1972 and still a hallmark of the brand’s identity half a century later. The chronograph counters and hour markers are finished in a tonal silver tone and treated with a luminescent coating, ensuring legibility even in dim conditions, demonstrating a perfect balance of practicality and aesthetics.

3. Strap and Movement: Practical Function and Excellent Performance

Strap design

The stainless steel chain continues the iconic checkered links of the Royal Oak series. It has been carefully polished to give it a silky touch and is paired with a folding clasp engraved with AP to ensure comfort and safety when wearing it.

4401 automatic movement: a technical and aesthetic masterpiece

As the heart of the chronograph, the 4401 calibre combines numerous complex functions and exceptional performance:

Function : Chronograph equipped with flyback function, hour/minute/small second hand display and date display, all practical functions meet daily and professional timing needs

Power reserve : minimum 70 hours power reserve

Movement parameters :

- Number of rubies: 40

- Total diameter: 32 mm

- Number of parts: 381

- Balance frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour) to ensure stable precision

- Thickness: only 6.8 mm, slim design

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Automatic Chronograph 50th Anniversary Edition (Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.03) pays homage to the iconic 1972 design. Through a modernized design and exclusive commemorative elements, it embodies the brand’s spirit of “always going above and beyond.” From the meticulous treatment of the stainless steel to the exceptional performance of the caliber 4401, every aspect embodies the pinnacle of fine watchmaking expertise, making it a perfect choice for collectors and watch enthusiasts seeking classic design and mechanical allure.