In 2022, Audemars Piguet introduced numerous new Royal Oak models in celebration of the 50th anniversary of this iconic line.
Among them was the Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph 41mm reference 26240, adorned with a special rotor featuring a prominent 50 logo, similar to other anniversary automatic editions. However, by 2023, they were replaced by regular models with typical AP rotors, and new pieces were added to the permanent collection.
In March of this year, one of them debuted: the striking APRO Selfwinding Chronograph 41mm 26240BA in radiant yellow gold on a matching bracelet. The watch boasts a luxurious gold gradient dial and is equipped with the AP 4401 caliber, an integrated chronograph movement with a flyback function, first introduced in 2019 in the Code 11.59 collection.
The 26240BA watch, with a diameter of 41 mm and a thickness of 12.4 mm, features a robust case and bracelet made of 18-carat yellow gold, giving it a solid feel. When worn, its weight creates a pleasant heft, enhancing its authoritative presence.
The interplay of polished and matte surfaces of the octagonal bezel, case, lugs, screw-down crown, chronograph pushers, and bracelet offers a mesmerizing play of light, giving the watch a luxurious radiant glow.
On the wrist, the yellow gold Royal Oak Chronograph exudes the grandeur of an architectural masterpiece, drawing attention with its
Thanks to its stunning aesthetics, robust construction, advanced mechanism, and storied history, this new chronograph is highly sought after.
The dynamic combination of yellow gold with a gradient yellow gold dial was first introduced in 2022 with the Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin 16202BA, combining boldness and elegance. However, when this distinctive aesthetic is applied to a chronograph with its larger case and protruding buttons, it creates a completely different, more powerful sensation, further emphasized by the large tapisserie pattern on the dial, as opposed to the small tapisserie on the 16202BA Jumbo dial.
The gradient gold-colored dial transitions from radiant yellow gold in the center to deep black at the periphery, serving as a backdrop for functional elements. The 12-hour counter at the “3” position, the 30-minute counter at the “9” position, and the small seconds subdial at the “6 o’clock” position stand out against this gradient canvas with their metallic gold hue. The date window, located at the 4:30 position, though matching the dial color, sometimes blends with the darker tones and occasionally escapes notice.
Despite the striking color palette, the dial's legibility is impeccable. Clear white markers along the minute-second scale adorn the dark periphery of the dial, and faceted, baton-shaped applied indices in yellow gold with luminescent coating easily catch the light.
The subdials are decorated with black markers and numerals, and their small black hands are easily distinguishable against the radiant circles. Completing the functional ensemble is the gold AP hand with luminescent coating on the hour and minute hands, as well as the central chronograph seconds hand with its distinctive oval counterweight.
Speaking of functions, the date quickly advances at midnight, and the chronograph operates confidently and swiftly, delighting the eye with its flyback action - a combination of the column wheel and vertical clutch facilitates this. Additionally, the pleasant sound emitted by the pushers when pressed adds extra enjoyment for those who appreciate such details.
All these features are thanks to the high-end caliber 4401, Audemars Piguet's proprietary movement with automatic winding and an integrated column wheel chronograph. It ensures reliable operation with a substantial power reserve of 70 hours and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Through the sapphire crystal case back, one can admire the meticulous finishing of the movement, which includes straight and circular satin finishes, Geneva stripes, and perlage, carefully applied to both sides of the bridges, even in hidden areas.
The bridges boast large, impeccably polished diamond bevels, and all engravings are done in gold tones. Additionally, the openworked rotor made of 22-carat gold with the AP logo allows for an unobstructed view of the intricate mechanics beneath it.
Thoughts and Price
Overall, it is hard to find flaws in the 26240 series, especially considering its broad popularity among everyone we know. It is rare to encounter a person who wouldn't strive to own such a piece, and those who don't are likely already in possession of it. Criticism regarding the not-so-sporty 50-meter water resistance seems trivial, as few would refuse to own a watch based on this factor.
The new Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph 41mm in yellow gold with a gradient yellow gold dial makes a definitive style statement. Its presence (and price at 78,000 euros) exudes confidence and can transform even the most timid owner. The notion of “conspicuous consumption” seems outdated in the face of such well-crafted timepieces.
Any opinions on the aesthetics and functionality of the new APRO 26240BA chronograph can be voiced in the comments below - and yes, you can also opt for a more modest and half-priced version in a steel case (with black, silver, green, or blue dial).
For more detailed information, visit audemarspiguet.com.