Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Carbon Concept 26265FO.OO.D002CR.01

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Ref. 26265FO.OO.D002CR.01, a highly technical tourbillon chronograph wristwatch crafted in carbon, ceramic, and titanium, featuring a power reserve display and crown position indicator.

Audemars Piguet first introduced the Royal Oak Concept in 2002 to mark the 30th anniversary of the original stainless steel Royal Oak, establishing a platform for cutting-edge experimentation. In 2008, the Royal Oak CCW1 became a landmark release as the first watch to feature a forged carbon case and movement. The movement’s main plate is crafted from carbon, while the central bridge is made of eloxed aluminum, underscoring the watch’s avant-garde construction.

At its heart is the remarkable 384-component Calibre 2895, a true technical tour de force combining a tourbillon, chronograph, and twin-barrel system that delivers an impressive approximate 237-hour (10-day) power reserve. The linear chronograph minute counter departs from traditional subdials, instead displaying time via an openworked bridge with a double vertical scale. An innovative function selector allows the crown to switch seamlessly between winding, time-setting, or a neutral position.

Stylistically, the watch remains firmly rooted in the Royal Oak lineage, evident in the iconic octagonal bezel and faceted, hooded lugs. However, its execution is thoroughly modern, utilizing forged carbon, ceramic, and blackened titanium. Despite its substantial presence, the watch is exceptionally lightweight at just 90 grams. Unsurprisingly, the Royal Oak Concept was met with strong acclaim from collectors, successfully pushing the technical boundaries of the Royal Oak while preserving the collection’s distinctive design DNA.