The Swiss watch manufacturer Audemars Piguet is celebrating its status as official timekeeper of the Tour Auto for the fifth consecutive year by launching a new limited series: the Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto 2010 Chronograph, issued in a limited edition of 60 pieces. Its double celebration as the watch makers also extends their association with two participating teams: the Blanchard/Cloche-Dubois ladies’ team behind an AC Bristol, and the Mecenat Chirurgie Cardiaque team behind a Jaguar MK1.
Set in the standard Royal Oak Offshore case, the racing flat inspired dial has a great look. Tone of slate, white, silver, and red mix to together with visual elements that are all about speed. The Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto 2010 Chronograph is driven by Audemars Piguet’s selfwinding, hand-decorated Calibre 2326/2840. The watch is equipped with a chronograph function with central seconds hand along with 30-minute and 12-hour counters. The tachometric scale on the inner bezel ring, decorated with alternating black and white squares, evokes the chequered flag that is waved at motor-race finishes.
Limited Edition Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto 2010 Chronograph is enclosed inside a 42mm stainless steel case with sapphire crystalss. The 100-meter water resistantand 38-hour power reserve watches will spot the Tour Auto logo with the text ‘Royal Oak Offshore – Serie Limitee’ on the caseback.
Jules Audemars and Edward Piguet were both in their early twenties when they founded Audemars Piguet in 1875. In 1972 AP launched a line of mechanical watches with hexagonal screws that fastened a porthole-like bezel. Thus was born the Royal Oak, in honor of the British Royal Navy’s line of ships bearing the same name. The Royal Oak is among many of the most specialized and complex watches produced by this famous manufactory.