I will just compile my several pics and write ups about AP Diver.
here is the sections about the history:
[h=2]AP Diver The Series[/h]
here is the sections about the history:
[h=2]AP Diver The Series[/h]
2005
its all started from a Company name WEMPE a Maritime Precision maker who Founded in 1905, want to make a limited watch for their 100 years anniversary in 2005.
Wempe Chronometerwerke has always devoted itself to the exacting task of manufacturing precise maritime instruments and nautical timekeeping systems. Simultaneously cultivating traditional values and keeping its gaze directed toward the future, Wempe numbers among the world’s leading manufacturers. All German research vessels and many luxury cruise ships such as the MS EUROPA are equipped with clock systems from Wempe.
Wempe will then askin AP to make a limited number of watches that later name WEMPE SCUBA.
REMEMBER ITS ONLY FOR SCUBA AND ITS NOT YET A DIVING CERTIFIED YET!
The legendary Royal Oak Offshore line of watches are essentially luxury mechanical sports watches, albeit exquisitely executed and housing elaborately decorated in-house movements, which typically feature chronograph complications. Their rich sporting heritage lies predominantly in offshore racing, not scuba diving. However . . .
ROO SCUBA Three different models of the ROO Scuba were produced; all three models of the ROO Scuba were based around the same 300m water-resistant case design. They house the same AP Cal. 2325 automatic movement. The WEMPE Scuba has a 45mm case whereas the Boutique and Bartorelli editions have 44mm cases. They all feature internal unidirectional divers timing bezels and rubberized crowns.
WEMPE In 2005 AP produced the inaugural ROO Scuba for WEMPE. The WEMPE Limited Edition's 45mm case was made in both stainless steel and 18kt rose gold. Made to celebrate 100 years of WEMPE chronometers, this was AP's first model that was intended for use below the waves, rather than above them.
The commemorative WEMPE Scuba has a professional dial with lumed hour-markers; it also features a full hobnail dial. Only 175 pieces of the WEMPE steel were produced, and an even fewer 30 pieces in rose gold.
ROO Scuba Wempe (steel) 15340ST.00.D002CA.01 / 175 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 12’300USD
ROO Scuba Wempe (rose gold) 15340OR.00.D002CA.01 / 35 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 31’000USD
2006
BOUTIQUE The Scuba 'Boutique' was released in 3 series, with a limited production of 300 pieces of each. In 2006 the ROO Scuba ‘Boutique’ was released. It featured enlarged orange Arabic numerals and an orange and black internal bezel. The Boutique Scuba series 2 and 3 were then respectively released a year apart; both have white Arabic numerals and contrasting internal bezels in blue (series 2) and red (series 3). The Boutique editions only had partly hobnailed dials.
ROO Scuba Boutique (orange) 15701ST.00.D002CA.01 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13’700USD
ROO Scuba Boutique (blue) 15701ST.00.D002CA.02 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13'700USD
ROO Scuba Boutique (red) 15701ST.00.D002CA.03 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13'700USD
2007
BARTORELLI This stunning edition was produced to mark Bartoreloli's 125th year. The special 'Bartorelli' edition of the ROO Scuba features a bronze fixed bezel with an internal rotatable divers bezel also in bronze. Its 44mm case is constructed from black PVD coated stainless steel. Only 50 pieces were produced. Its MSRP was 28’500USD, but expect to pay upwards of 35K for a mint condition Bartorelli Scuba.
ROO Scuba Bartorelli (bronze / ss) 15702AU.00.D002CR.01 / 50 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 28’500USD
2010
The ROO DIVER is a watch with all the virtues of Royal Oak Offshore line: a fine Manufacture wristwatch, but with the functionality of a very capable 300 meter dive watch. It features the same internal divers bezel and rubberized crowns as the ROO Scuba. Most similar in appearance to the 2005 steel WEMPE edition of the ROO Scuba, it has a black hobnail dial and gray lumed hour markers.
The AP Manufacture have made a few improvements to their ROO dive watch, most noticeably its new wider handset, allowing for more lume and a surer reading at a glance; the hour hand now also with two additional bands of lume to further increase visibility in poor lighting conditions.
The stainless steel case has come down a little in size from 45mm to a more reasonable 42mm. And it has done away with the Cal. 2325 in favor of AP’s Cal.3120; a self-winding movement, which features a new user-friendly instant jump, fast adjustment date display and 60 hours, power reserve.
The movement has been decorated with circular graining on both sides, its bridges bare the Cotes de Geneve emblem and the monobloc has been constructed form 22-carat gold. This stunningly decorated movement is housed in a protective anti-magnetic case corresponding to ISO norms for a dive watch.
Please see below for the full press release, and click on the AP icon at the bottom of the post to visit Audemars Piguet's newly launched dedicated website showcasing the new ROO Diver.
ROO Diver 15703ST.00.A002CA.01 / Cal.3120 / (non-LE) / MSRP 15'200USD
From AUDEMARS PIGUET This model is water-resistant to 300 metres and thus well able to withstand the incredible pressure exercised in the depths of the ocean. It belongs to the prestigious category of diver's watches, the kind that have earned their pedigree on the wrists of combat divers and professional underwater explorers. It is sure to delight subaquatic enthusiasts,while also finding favour with non-divers well acquainted with fine technical and sporting watchmaking accomplishments.
They will see it as a sturdy, reliable timepiece that is resistant to strong pressures, shocks, as well as to magnetic phenomena, presented within a collection that has already proved its mettle in the world of sports watches: the Royal Oak Offshore collection.
GEARED FOR EXTREME CONDITIONS The Swiss watch industry norms (NIHS) that also comply with international standards lay down a certain number of specific criteria that must be met by a watch if it is to be termed a 'diver’s watch'. Time preselection device
The NIHS 92-11 norm (corresponding to ISO 6425) calls for a time preselection device. Moreover, in order to prevent any reading errors,the latter must be protected against any unintentional rotation. The Royal Oak Offshore Diver is equipped with a diving scale on an inner rotating dial ring that is activated via a unidirectional click mechanism linked to the 10 o’clock crown.
The wearer can only turn the device by deliberately unscrewing the crown. Since this is an inner dial ring rather than a rotating bezel , the case middle also serves as a rampart to protect the rotation mechanism. In compliance with the 92-11 norm, the device features a minutes scale on which five-minute periods are clearly highlighted.
VISIBILITY The time, the time measured on the inner dial ring and the movement operating indication must be readable in the dark from a distance of 25 cm. The dial of the Royal Oak Offshore Diver has been duly optimised to meet this requirement.The baton hour-markers along with the hour and minute hands are facetted and luminescent.
The hour hand is distinguished by two additional bands of luminescent coating on the side, while the movement of the equally luminescent seconds hand guarantees that the watch is operating as it should. All these indications are accentuated by the black 'Mega Tapisserie' motif characteristic of the Royal Oak Offshore collection. Finally, displaying the diving scale as close as possible to the dial minimises the risk of accidentally modifying the dive time, and also facilitates dive-time readings.
A PURE, UNCLUTTERED SELF-WINDING MODEL A diver’s watch in all its pristine simplicity. It is equipped with the stellar Manufacture Audemars Piguet selfwinding movement: Calibre 3120.
Constantly fine-tuned and perfected, the latter is distinguished by its impressive reliability. To ensure its precision, the heart of the movement is a variable-inertia balance with a flat balance spring oscillating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour.The adjustment is performed by means of eight inertia-blocks that ensure excellent stability and appreciable long-term constancy of rate.
The cross-through balance-bridge guarantees enhanced shock-resistance in that it is secured not on just one side, but on both sides of the mainplate. The direct-drive central seconds hand avoids any backlash of the hand.
Calibre 3120 is also particularly user-friendly, particularly thanks to the instant-jump, fast-adjustment date display, as well as the 60-hour power reserve. Time-setting is also facilitated by the fact that pulling out the crown immediately activates the stop-seconds lever and accordingly brings the seconds hand to a halt .
Nonetheless, the crowning glory of Calibre 3120 is undoubtedly the care lavished on its craftsmanship. Hand-assembled in the work shops of Le Brassus, it boasts exceptional quality of execution and finishing. The bridges are meticulously chamfered and polished to ensure clear cut,shining edges. The jewel sinks are diamond-polished. The wheels feature chamfered spokes and diamond-polished jewel sinks.
Even the screw rims and slots are chamfered. The hand-crafted decoration includes a mainplate circular-grained on both sides and bridges adorned with a Cotes de Geneve motif. Finally, the monobloc 22-carat gold oscillating weight bears the Audemars and Piguet family crests and the AP monogram.
THE QUINTESSENTIAL SPORTS WATCH The sense of power and distinction exuded by the Royal Oak Offshore Diver stems both from its performances and its appearance.
The inimitable and legendary octagonal shape has become an emblem of sports watches. It appears here more forcefully than ever. Loyal to its origins, the case is of course in stainless steel. It is worth remember ing that Audemars Piguet actually invented the first high-end sports watch in 1972, which it named Royal Oak, and that it achieved the unprecedented feat of raising steel to the rank of a noble metal on a par with gold. In 1992, the octagon then took on its extreme sports appearance with the advent of the Royal Oak Offshore.
This collection makes ample use of rubber that is often associated with steel, and sometimes even with gold. Its dials feature a distinctive criss-cross or grid pattern named 'Mega Tapisserie'. The Royal Oak Offshore Diver picks up these codes and majestically reinterprets them.
The satin-brushed or polished finishes of the case enliven the steel and create a play on contrasts. The 10 o’clock crown accentuates the technical nature of this model with distinctive features including an octagonal bezel fitted with eight polished hexagonal screws, while the black rubber joint beneath the bezel echoes the rubber-moulded crowns and the strap.
Selfwinding ROYAL OAK OFFSHORE DIVER Reference15703ST.OO.A002CA.01
CASE
Stainless steel
Black rubber crowns
Back with medallion bear ing the legend Royal Oak Offshore
Diameter: 42mm
Thicknes: 13.75mm
Water-resistant?: 300m
DIAL
Inner rotating ring with diving scale
Black with exclusive 'Mega Tapisserie' motif
Applied grey hour-markers with luminescent coating
Facetted white gold hour and minute hands with luminescent coating
STRAP
Black rubber with oversized stainless steel pin buckle
MOVEMENT Proprietary Calibre 3120, selfwinding
22-carat gold oscillating weight
Variable-inertia balance with eight inertia-blocks and flat balance-spring
Geneva-type mobile balance-spr ing stud holder
Three-position winding stem
Total diameter: 26.60mm
Casing diameter: 11.5 lignes (26mm)
Thicknes: 4.25mm
Parts: 278
Jewels: 40
Power reserve: Up to 60-hour
Cadence of the balance: 21,600 vibrations per hour
FINISHING
All parts finely decorated
Mainplate circular-grained
Bridges rhodium-plated, chamfered, snailed and adorned with Cotes De Geneve
Diamond-polished jewel sinks
Wheels with chamfered spokes and diamond-polished jewel sinks
Chamfered screw rims and slots
Oscillating weight engraved with the AP monogram and the Audemars and Piguet family crests
FUNCTIONS
Hours and minutes
Dive-time measurement
Date
2012
Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Reference: 15706AU.00.A002CA.01)
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver Forged Carbon is available for 22.870 EUR
2013
The new ROO Diver Ceramic, which was conceived in the R&D department of the AP manufacture is the third iteration of AP's current Royal Oak Offshore Diver's family.
From AP This instrument developed to meet the requirements of diving enthusiasts or those looking for timepieces able to cope with intensive use, decisively pushes the envelope in terms of performance. Rugged and resistant to the pressure sustained at depths of 300 meters, the Royal Oak Offshore Diver maximizes the main technical characteristics of instruments intended for use in underwater activities, in order to guarantee users unfailing reliability at all times.
Fully compliant with the NIHS 92-11 (ISO6425) norm, this self-winding model with its powerful design, built for subaquatic use in conditions where rough estimates are not an option, appears this year for the first time with a case, bezel and easy-grip crowns all made of deep black high-tech ceramics.
Machining this avant-garde material, around seven times harder than steel and which only diamonds can scratch, calls for the use of special machines and tools equipped with diamond-tipped milling-cutters. The case middle is also treated to polished and satin-brushed finishes that represented a daunting technical challenge to achieve this degree of quality, due to the inherent resistant to abrasion of this composite material.
This reliable and efficient timepiece, for which the developers focused firmly on functionality, was thoroughly researched to ensure optimal suitability for use in diving conditions. For example, to improve the readability contrast in the ocean depths, for the first time its black dial bearing the traditional “Méga Tapisserie†pattern is fitted with a luminescent orange hand matching the diving scale appearing on the rotating inner bezel ring, which also features an orange zone between 12 and 3 o’clock. This vivid shade enables instant readings of all essential information.
The rotating dive-time pre-selection device, unusually positioned inside the case, is technically far more complex to make than a traditional unidirectional exterior rotating bezel. It offers the advantage of reducing the parallax error and protecting this element – which is vital for divers in monitoring the duration of their immersion – from shocks and aggressive external factors such as water, salt or grains of sand that might jam the bezel.
To adjust this dive-time indicator, the Audemars Piguet watchmakers have developed a mechanism enabling it to be controlled via a watertight external crown positioned at 10 o’clock along the side of the case middle. This system as a whole represents a significant safety feature since, once the crown has been screwed back in, the dive time cannot be inadvertently modified. Equipped with a system of innovative water-tightness gaskets, it may be handled during immersion.
This technology that has also been applied to the winding-crown will enable the diver to perform various operations under water if necessary.
This watch also providing a central seconds display and a date indication at 3 o’clock is driven by Manufacture Audemars Piguet mechanical self-winding Calibre 3120, which may be observed through the titanium case-back fitted with a sapphire crystal – also a first in the Offshore Diver collection.
The latter highly sensitive element, that must be able to withstand the underwater pressure exercised at a depth of 300 meters, is secured to the case middle by screws and serves to reveal the 22-carat solid gold oscillating weight, along with some of the meticulously finished movement components including its balance beating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour.
This rugged, graphically designed, ergonomic and almost unalterable timepiece focuses on essentials – which is exactly why it is worn on a rubber strap equipped with a titanium pin buckle. This simple and efficient, tried and tested fastening system enables the user to adjust the strap at any time to ensure a comfortable fit, whether directly on the skin or when wearing the instrument over a diving suit.
2014
Two years ago, Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak Offshore Diver in forged carbon and last year we got the same watch in black ceramic. Well, this year we have another take on the Offshore Diver, this time in white ceramic. Yes, white ceramic. The watch looks absolutely pristine in-person and will likely stay that way due to the 1850 Vickers white Super Ceramic case, bezel, pushers, and crowns. It's not a subtle take on the Offshore Diver, but it is an impressive one.
The basic structure of this watch is pretty much the same as that of the black ceramic Offshore Diver from last year. That rendition added a sapphire window in a titanium caseback, a feature repeated in the white version. The case is the same 42mm diameter, 13.9mm thick dive case with internal bezel adjuster at 10 o'clock and elongated crown guards on the right side of the case.
A Closer Look At The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver White Ceramic
The white ceramic brings more to the mix though than just its color. Audemars Piguet used a material called white Super Ceramic, which comes in at 1850 Vickers, more than 500 Vickers harder than the black ceramic used for last year's model. This super ceramic is more than nine times harder than steel, and, as you would expect, is hard to work with for this same reason. The middle case takes about 12 hours to make and the bezel takes approximately 8 – these would take about 1.5 hours and 45 minutes respectively for comparable steel components. Achieving polished and brushed surfaces, something the Offshore Diver is known for, is equally laborious with white super ceramic.
The white dial has the Mega Tapisserie pattern and faceted hours and minutes hand with blue accents. These dark blue accents look black in all but the brightest light, though the color brings a little extra to what could otherwise be an austere watch. The overall brightness makes the Diver very legible, though this brightness means your wrist will probably be attracting a lot of attention as well. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing is up to you.
The caseback (as well as the other metal components you see) is titanium and has a sapphire window giving you a good look at the Audemars Piguet calibre 3120 with engraved 22k gold rotor. It's a beautiful automatic time-only movement that provides 60 hours of power reserve. Even with the sapphire window, the case is waterproof to 300m.
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver White Ceramic is an Audemars Piguet boutique exclusive and will be priced at $23,900, placing it between the black ceramic and forged carbon editions.
March 2014
This year, the world renowned Swiss Haute Horology brand Audemars Piguet will be collaborating with The Hong Kong Jockey Club for the 16th Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Cup in Hong Kong. In a race that attracts participants from all over the world, up to a HK$14 million winning purse will be offered. To commemorate the 16th anniversary of the Audemars Piguet QEII Cup annual international race in Hong Kong, the brand will be launching a 150-piece Royal Oak Offshore limited edition timepiece. A masterpiece incorporating impeccable craftsmanship and contemporary design, it is the perfect timepiece to mark an important event on the social horse racing calendar, appealing to the sophisticated watch connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
Audemars Piguet was founded in 1875 in Le Brassus. Immersed with passion, excellence and innovativeness, the brand has focused on developing high-end timepieces and movements. The Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 Royal Oak Offshore Diver limited edition takes this spirit of innovation to an extreme by presenting the perfect proportion, exquisite craftsmanship and high-technology materials. The octagonal bezel and the “Méga Tapisserie†pattern on the dial are all in line with the Royal Oak Offshore signature characteristics and athletic roots.
The unique combination of the 42mm tantalum case, the 18-carat pink gold bezel and the “large square scale†grey crocodile leather strap create contrasting colours and accentuate the features of this timepiece. Engraved on the sapphire transparent case back is the legend “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 – Limited Edition†and the “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup†logo. Through caseback, one can easily admire the 22K oscillating weight and decorations of the 3120 Manufacture Calibre. Each and every component is produced with exquisite craftsmanship and finishing, perfectly showcasing the brand’s commitment in traditional high-end watchmaking. Waterproof to 300m, this piece offers a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour while the movement provides a minimum 60 hours of power reserve to the watch. Such a masterpiece is the perfect representation of sport performance in Haute Horology and embodies the brand’s philosophy, “To break the rules, you must first master them.â€
AUDEMARS PIGUET QEII CUP 2014 ROYAL OAK OFFSHORE DIVER LIMITED EDITION
MOVEMENT:
Manufacture Calibre 3120 Selfwinding Remontage Automatique
Total diameter: 26.60mm
Total thickness: 4.26mm
Number of parts: 280
Number of jewels: 40
Minimum Power reserve: 60 hours
Frequency: 21,600 vibrations / hour
Function:
Dive-time measurement, hours, minutes, centre, seconds, date
Case:
42mm tantalum case
18-carat pink gold bezel and links
Black rubber-clad screw-locked black ceramic crowns
Glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback
Caseback engraved with the legend “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 – Limited Edition†and “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup†logo
Water-resistant to 300m
Dial:
Slate grey dial with “Méga Tapisserie†pattern
Pink gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands (black minutes hand) with luminescent coating
Slate grey rotating inner bezel with diving scale and zone from 60 to 15 minutes in black
Strap:
Hand-stitched “large square scale†grey alligator strap with titanium pin buckle
Quantity:
Limited Edition of 150 pieces
Réf : 15709TR.OO.A005CR.01
Price
Non-binding Recommended Public Price: 23.000. Euro
its all started from a Company name WEMPE a Maritime Precision maker who Founded in 1905, want to make a limited watch for their 100 years anniversary in 2005.
Wempe Chronometerwerke has always devoted itself to the exacting task of manufacturing precise maritime instruments and nautical timekeeping systems. Simultaneously cultivating traditional values and keeping its gaze directed toward the future, Wempe numbers among the world’s leading manufacturers. All German research vessels and many luxury cruise ships such as the MS EUROPA are equipped with clock systems from Wempe.
Wempe will then askin AP to make a limited number of watches that later name WEMPE SCUBA.
REMEMBER ITS ONLY FOR SCUBA AND ITS NOT YET A DIVING CERTIFIED YET!
The legendary Royal Oak Offshore line of watches are essentially luxury mechanical sports watches, albeit exquisitely executed and housing elaborately decorated in-house movements, which typically feature chronograph complications. Their rich sporting heritage lies predominantly in offshore racing, not scuba diving. However . . .
ROO SCUBA Three different models of the ROO Scuba were produced; all three models of the ROO Scuba were based around the same 300m water-resistant case design. They house the same AP Cal. 2325 automatic movement. The WEMPE Scuba has a 45mm case whereas the Boutique and Bartorelli editions have 44mm cases. They all feature internal unidirectional divers timing bezels and rubberized crowns.
WEMPE In 2005 AP produced the inaugural ROO Scuba for WEMPE. The WEMPE Limited Edition's 45mm case was made in both stainless steel and 18kt rose gold. Made to celebrate 100 years of WEMPE chronometers, this was AP's first model that was intended for use below the waves, rather than above them.
The commemorative WEMPE Scuba has a professional dial with lumed hour-markers; it also features a full hobnail dial. Only 175 pieces of the WEMPE steel were produced, and an even fewer 30 pieces in rose gold.
ROO Scuba Wempe (steel) 15340ST.00.D002CA.01 / 175 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 12’300USD
ROO Scuba Wempe (rose gold) 15340OR.00.D002CA.01 / 35 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 31’000USD
2006
BOUTIQUE The Scuba 'Boutique' was released in 3 series, with a limited production of 300 pieces of each. In 2006 the ROO Scuba ‘Boutique’ was released. It featured enlarged orange Arabic numerals and an orange and black internal bezel. The Boutique Scuba series 2 and 3 were then respectively released a year apart; both have white Arabic numerals and contrasting internal bezels in blue (series 2) and red (series 3). The Boutique editions only had partly hobnailed dials.
ROO Scuba Boutique (orange) 15701ST.00.D002CA.01 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13’700USD
ROO Scuba Boutique (blue) 15701ST.00.D002CA.02 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13'700USD
ROO Scuba Boutique (red) 15701ST.00.D002CA.03 / 300 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 13'700USD
2007
BARTORELLI This stunning edition was produced to mark Bartoreloli's 125th year. The special 'Bartorelli' edition of the ROO Scuba features a bronze fixed bezel with an internal rotatable divers bezel also in bronze. Its 44mm case is constructed from black PVD coated stainless steel. Only 50 pieces were produced. Its MSRP was 28’500USD, but expect to pay upwards of 35K for a mint condition Bartorelli Scuba.
ROO Scuba Bartorelli (bronze / ss) 15702AU.00.D002CR.01 / 50 pieces / Cal.2325 / MSRP 28’500USD
2010
The ROO DIVER is a watch with all the virtues of Royal Oak Offshore line: a fine Manufacture wristwatch, but with the functionality of a very capable 300 meter dive watch. It features the same internal divers bezel and rubberized crowns as the ROO Scuba. Most similar in appearance to the 2005 steel WEMPE edition of the ROO Scuba, it has a black hobnail dial and gray lumed hour markers.
The AP Manufacture have made a few improvements to their ROO dive watch, most noticeably its new wider handset, allowing for more lume and a surer reading at a glance; the hour hand now also with two additional bands of lume to further increase visibility in poor lighting conditions.
The stainless steel case has come down a little in size from 45mm to a more reasonable 42mm. And it has done away with the Cal. 2325 in favor of AP’s Cal.3120; a self-winding movement, which features a new user-friendly instant jump, fast adjustment date display and 60 hours, power reserve.
The movement has been decorated with circular graining on both sides, its bridges bare the Cotes de Geneve emblem and the monobloc has been constructed form 22-carat gold. This stunningly decorated movement is housed in a protective anti-magnetic case corresponding to ISO norms for a dive watch.
Please see below for the full press release, and click on the AP icon at the bottom of the post to visit Audemars Piguet's newly launched dedicated website showcasing the new ROO Diver.
ROO Diver 15703ST.00.A002CA.01 / Cal.3120 / (non-LE) / MSRP 15'200USD
From AUDEMARS PIGUET This model is water-resistant to 300 metres and thus well able to withstand the incredible pressure exercised in the depths of the ocean. It belongs to the prestigious category of diver's watches, the kind that have earned their pedigree on the wrists of combat divers and professional underwater explorers. It is sure to delight subaquatic enthusiasts,while also finding favour with non-divers well acquainted with fine technical and sporting watchmaking accomplishments.
They will see it as a sturdy, reliable timepiece that is resistant to strong pressures, shocks, as well as to magnetic phenomena, presented within a collection that has already proved its mettle in the world of sports watches: the Royal Oak Offshore collection.
GEARED FOR EXTREME CONDITIONS The Swiss watch industry norms (NIHS) that also comply with international standards lay down a certain number of specific criteria that must be met by a watch if it is to be termed a 'diver’s watch'. Time preselection device
The NIHS 92-11 norm (corresponding to ISO 6425) calls for a time preselection device. Moreover, in order to prevent any reading errors,the latter must be protected against any unintentional rotation. The Royal Oak Offshore Diver is equipped with a diving scale on an inner rotating dial ring that is activated via a unidirectional click mechanism linked to the 10 o’clock crown.
The wearer can only turn the device by deliberately unscrewing the crown. Since this is an inner dial ring rather than a rotating bezel , the case middle also serves as a rampart to protect the rotation mechanism. In compliance with the 92-11 norm, the device features a minutes scale on which five-minute periods are clearly highlighted.
VISIBILITY The time, the time measured on the inner dial ring and the movement operating indication must be readable in the dark from a distance of 25 cm. The dial of the Royal Oak Offshore Diver has been duly optimised to meet this requirement.The baton hour-markers along with the hour and minute hands are facetted and luminescent.
The hour hand is distinguished by two additional bands of luminescent coating on the side, while the movement of the equally luminescent seconds hand guarantees that the watch is operating as it should. All these indications are accentuated by the black 'Mega Tapisserie' motif characteristic of the Royal Oak Offshore collection. Finally, displaying the diving scale as close as possible to the dial minimises the risk of accidentally modifying the dive time, and also facilitates dive-time readings.
A PURE, UNCLUTTERED SELF-WINDING MODEL A diver’s watch in all its pristine simplicity. It is equipped with the stellar Manufacture Audemars Piguet selfwinding movement: Calibre 3120.
Constantly fine-tuned and perfected, the latter is distinguished by its impressive reliability. To ensure its precision, the heart of the movement is a variable-inertia balance with a flat balance spring oscillating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour.The adjustment is performed by means of eight inertia-blocks that ensure excellent stability and appreciable long-term constancy of rate.
The cross-through balance-bridge guarantees enhanced shock-resistance in that it is secured not on just one side, but on both sides of the mainplate. The direct-drive central seconds hand avoids any backlash of the hand.
Calibre 3120 is also particularly user-friendly, particularly thanks to the instant-jump, fast-adjustment date display, as well as the 60-hour power reserve. Time-setting is also facilitated by the fact that pulling out the crown immediately activates the stop-seconds lever and accordingly brings the seconds hand to a halt .
Nonetheless, the crowning glory of Calibre 3120 is undoubtedly the care lavished on its craftsmanship. Hand-assembled in the work shops of Le Brassus, it boasts exceptional quality of execution and finishing. The bridges are meticulously chamfered and polished to ensure clear cut,shining edges. The jewel sinks are diamond-polished. The wheels feature chamfered spokes and diamond-polished jewel sinks.
Even the screw rims and slots are chamfered. The hand-crafted decoration includes a mainplate circular-grained on both sides and bridges adorned with a Cotes de Geneve motif. Finally, the monobloc 22-carat gold oscillating weight bears the Audemars and Piguet family crests and the AP monogram.
THE QUINTESSENTIAL SPORTS WATCH The sense of power and distinction exuded by the Royal Oak Offshore Diver stems both from its performances and its appearance.
The inimitable and legendary octagonal shape has become an emblem of sports watches. It appears here more forcefully than ever. Loyal to its origins, the case is of course in stainless steel. It is worth remember ing that Audemars Piguet actually invented the first high-end sports watch in 1972, which it named Royal Oak, and that it achieved the unprecedented feat of raising steel to the rank of a noble metal on a par with gold. In 1992, the octagon then took on its extreme sports appearance with the advent of the Royal Oak Offshore.
This collection makes ample use of rubber that is often associated with steel, and sometimes even with gold. Its dials feature a distinctive criss-cross or grid pattern named 'Mega Tapisserie'. The Royal Oak Offshore Diver picks up these codes and majestically reinterprets them.
The satin-brushed or polished finishes of the case enliven the steel and create a play on contrasts. The 10 o’clock crown accentuates the technical nature of this model with distinctive features including an octagonal bezel fitted with eight polished hexagonal screws, while the black rubber joint beneath the bezel echoes the rubber-moulded crowns and the strap.
Selfwinding ROYAL OAK OFFSHORE DIVER Reference15703ST.OO.A002CA.01
CASE
Stainless steel
Black rubber crowns
Back with medallion bear ing the legend Royal Oak Offshore
Diameter: 42mm
Thicknes: 13.75mm
Water-resistant?: 300m
DIAL
Inner rotating ring with diving scale
Black with exclusive 'Mega Tapisserie' motif
Applied grey hour-markers with luminescent coating
Facetted white gold hour and minute hands with luminescent coating
STRAP
Black rubber with oversized stainless steel pin buckle
MOVEMENT Proprietary Calibre 3120, selfwinding
22-carat gold oscillating weight
Variable-inertia balance with eight inertia-blocks and flat balance-spring
Geneva-type mobile balance-spr ing stud holder
Three-position winding stem
Total diameter: 26.60mm
Casing diameter: 11.5 lignes (26mm)
Thicknes: 4.25mm
Parts: 278
Jewels: 40
Power reserve: Up to 60-hour
Cadence of the balance: 21,600 vibrations per hour
FINISHING
All parts finely decorated
Mainplate circular-grained
Bridges rhodium-plated, chamfered, snailed and adorned with Cotes De Geneve
Diamond-polished jewel sinks
Wheels with chamfered spokes and diamond-polished jewel sinks
Chamfered screw rims and slots
Oscillating weight engraved with the AP monogram and the Audemars and Piguet family crests
FUNCTIONS
Hours and minutes
Dive-time measurement
Date
2012
Royal Oak Offshore Diver (Reference: 15706AU.00.A002CA.01)
- Case: Forged carbon case; diameter 42.00 mm; Height 13.90 mm, Water resistant to 30 bar (300 m); sapphire crystal to front and solid case back.
- Functions: Hours; minutes; centre seconds and date.
- Movement: Calibre 3120, self-winding; frequency 21,600 vph (3 Hz); 40 jewels; power reserve 60 hours.
- Strap: Rubber strap with titanium pin buckle.
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver Forged Carbon is available for 22.870 EUR
2013
The new ROO Diver Ceramic, which was conceived in the R&D department of the AP manufacture is the third iteration of AP's current Royal Oak Offshore Diver's family.
From AP This instrument developed to meet the requirements of diving enthusiasts or those looking for timepieces able to cope with intensive use, decisively pushes the envelope in terms of performance. Rugged and resistant to the pressure sustained at depths of 300 meters, the Royal Oak Offshore Diver maximizes the main technical characteristics of instruments intended for use in underwater activities, in order to guarantee users unfailing reliability at all times.
Fully compliant with the NIHS 92-11 (ISO6425) norm, this self-winding model with its powerful design, built for subaquatic use in conditions where rough estimates are not an option, appears this year for the first time with a case, bezel and easy-grip crowns all made of deep black high-tech ceramics.
Machining this avant-garde material, around seven times harder than steel and which only diamonds can scratch, calls for the use of special machines and tools equipped with diamond-tipped milling-cutters. The case middle is also treated to polished and satin-brushed finishes that represented a daunting technical challenge to achieve this degree of quality, due to the inherent resistant to abrasion of this composite material.
This reliable and efficient timepiece, for which the developers focused firmly on functionality, was thoroughly researched to ensure optimal suitability for use in diving conditions. For example, to improve the readability contrast in the ocean depths, for the first time its black dial bearing the traditional “Méga Tapisserie†pattern is fitted with a luminescent orange hand matching the diving scale appearing on the rotating inner bezel ring, which also features an orange zone between 12 and 3 o’clock. This vivid shade enables instant readings of all essential information.
The rotating dive-time pre-selection device, unusually positioned inside the case, is technically far more complex to make than a traditional unidirectional exterior rotating bezel. It offers the advantage of reducing the parallax error and protecting this element – which is vital for divers in monitoring the duration of their immersion – from shocks and aggressive external factors such as water, salt or grains of sand that might jam the bezel.
To adjust this dive-time indicator, the Audemars Piguet watchmakers have developed a mechanism enabling it to be controlled via a watertight external crown positioned at 10 o’clock along the side of the case middle. This system as a whole represents a significant safety feature since, once the crown has been screwed back in, the dive time cannot be inadvertently modified. Equipped with a system of innovative water-tightness gaskets, it may be handled during immersion.
This technology that has also been applied to the winding-crown will enable the diver to perform various operations under water if necessary.
This watch also providing a central seconds display and a date indication at 3 o’clock is driven by Manufacture Audemars Piguet mechanical self-winding Calibre 3120, which may be observed through the titanium case-back fitted with a sapphire crystal – also a first in the Offshore Diver collection.
The latter highly sensitive element, that must be able to withstand the underwater pressure exercised at a depth of 300 meters, is secured to the case middle by screws and serves to reveal the 22-carat solid gold oscillating weight, along with some of the meticulously finished movement components including its balance beating at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour.
This rugged, graphically designed, ergonomic and almost unalterable timepiece focuses on essentials – which is exactly why it is worn on a rubber strap equipped with a titanium pin buckle. This simple and efficient, tried and tested fastening system enables the user to adjust the strap at any time to ensure a comfortable fit, whether directly on the skin or when wearing the instrument over a diving suit.
2014
Two years ago, Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak Offshore Diver in forged carbon and last year we got the same watch in black ceramic. Well, this year we have another take on the Offshore Diver, this time in white ceramic. Yes, white ceramic. The watch looks absolutely pristine in-person and will likely stay that way due to the 1850 Vickers white Super Ceramic case, bezel, pushers, and crowns. It's not a subtle take on the Offshore Diver, but it is an impressive one.
The basic structure of this watch is pretty much the same as that of the black ceramic Offshore Diver from last year. That rendition added a sapphire window in a titanium caseback, a feature repeated in the white version. The case is the same 42mm diameter, 13.9mm thick dive case with internal bezel adjuster at 10 o'clock and elongated crown guards on the right side of the case.
A Closer Look At The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver White Ceramic
The white ceramic brings more to the mix though than just its color. Audemars Piguet used a material called white Super Ceramic, which comes in at 1850 Vickers, more than 500 Vickers harder than the black ceramic used for last year's model. This super ceramic is more than nine times harder than steel, and, as you would expect, is hard to work with for this same reason. The middle case takes about 12 hours to make and the bezel takes approximately 8 – these would take about 1.5 hours and 45 minutes respectively for comparable steel components. Achieving polished and brushed surfaces, something the Offshore Diver is known for, is equally laborious with white super ceramic.
The white dial has the Mega Tapisserie pattern and faceted hours and minutes hand with blue accents. These dark blue accents look black in all but the brightest light, though the color brings a little extra to what could otherwise be an austere watch. The overall brightness makes the Diver very legible, though this brightness means your wrist will probably be attracting a lot of attention as well. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing is up to you.
The caseback (as well as the other metal components you see) is titanium and has a sapphire window giving you a good look at the Audemars Piguet calibre 3120 with engraved 22k gold rotor. It's a beautiful automatic time-only movement that provides 60 hours of power reserve. Even with the sapphire window, the case is waterproof to 300m.
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver White Ceramic is an Audemars Piguet boutique exclusive and will be priced at $23,900, placing it between the black ceramic and forged carbon editions.
March 2014
This year, the world renowned Swiss Haute Horology brand Audemars Piguet will be collaborating with The Hong Kong Jockey Club for the 16th Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Cup in Hong Kong. In a race that attracts participants from all over the world, up to a HK$14 million winning purse will be offered. To commemorate the 16th anniversary of the Audemars Piguet QEII Cup annual international race in Hong Kong, the brand will be launching a 150-piece Royal Oak Offshore limited edition timepiece. A masterpiece incorporating impeccable craftsmanship and contemporary design, it is the perfect timepiece to mark an important event on the social horse racing calendar, appealing to the sophisticated watch connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
Audemars Piguet was founded in 1875 in Le Brassus. Immersed with passion, excellence and innovativeness, the brand has focused on developing high-end timepieces and movements. The Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 Royal Oak Offshore Diver limited edition takes this spirit of innovation to an extreme by presenting the perfect proportion, exquisite craftsmanship and high-technology materials. The octagonal bezel and the “Méga Tapisserie†pattern on the dial are all in line with the Royal Oak Offshore signature characteristics and athletic roots.
The unique combination of the 42mm tantalum case, the 18-carat pink gold bezel and the “large square scale†grey crocodile leather strap create contrasting colours and accentuate the features of this timepiece. Engraved on the sapphire transparent case back is the legend “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 – Limited Edition†and the “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup†logo. Through caseback, one can easily admire the 22K oscillating weight and decorations of the 3120 Manufacture Calibre. Each and every component is produced with exquisite craftsmanship and finishing, perfectly showcasing the brand’s commitment in traditional high-end watchmaking. Waterproof to 300m, this piece offers a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour while the movement provides a minimum 60 hours of power reserve to the watch. Such a masterpiece is the perfect representation of sport performance in Haute Horology and embodies the brand’s philosophy, “To break the rules, you must first master them.â€
AUDEMARS PIGUET QEII CUP 2014 ROYAL OAK OFFSHORE DIVER LIMITED EDITION
MOVEMENT:
Manufacture Calibre 3120 Selfwinding Remontage Automatique
Total diameter: 26.60mm
Total thickness: 4.26mm
Number of parts: 280
Number of jewels: 40
Minimum Power reserve: 60 hours
Frequency: 21,600 vibrations / hour
Function:
Dive-time measurement, hours, minutes, centre, seconds, date
Case:
42mm tantalum case
18-carat pink gold bezel and links
Black rubber-clad screw-locked black ceramic crowns
Glareproofed sapphire crystal and caseback
Caseback engraved with the legend “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup 2014 – Limited Edition†and “Audemars Piguet QEII Cup†logo
Water-resistant to 300m
Dial:
Slate grey dial with “Méga Tapisserie†pattern
Pink gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands (black minutes hand) with luminescent coating
Slate grey rotating inner bezel with diving scale and zone from 60 to 15 minutes in black
Strap:
Hand-stitched “large square scale†grey alligator strap with titanium pin buckle
Quantity:
Limited Edition of 150 pieces
Réf : 15709TR.OO.A005CR.01
Price
Non-binding Recommended Public Price: 23.000. Euro
