The Royal Oak Concept was first launched in 2002 as a tribute to the 30th anniversary of the very first Royal Oak, which was released in 1972. The Royal Oak was a game changer in horology, as this timepiece spawned a whole generation of luxury sports watches in steel. Since then many brands such as Vacheron Constantin, Patek Philippe, and countless others have launched their own interpretations of stainless steel luxury sports watches.
This year, the Royal Oak Concept has been fitted with both GMT and Tourbillon complications. This watch was just officially unveiled at the just concluded SIHH in Geneva, Switzerland. Even though a GMT/Tourbillon movement is spectacular, it is the case and dial that steal the show on this model. The case middle is crafted from titanium, while the famous octagonal bezel, main crown, and push piece are made using white ceramic.
White ceramic is 9 times harder than stainless steel and is so hard that the only mineral capable of scratching it is diamond. The white ceramic bezel also serves to highlight the hexagonal titanium screws. The case comes with dimensions of 44mm. Sapphire crystal is used for both the dial window and case back.
The dial is open worked and it features an upper bridge made also from white ceramic. The Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon is fitted with the GMT function at the 3 position. At 6 is a dial indicating the position of the main screw locked crown. The H, N, and R letters on this subdial correspond to time setting, neutral, and winding respectively. The tourbillon is located at 9 and features a black anodized aluminum bridge. Also made from black anodized aluminum is the flange. The time is indicated using white gold Royal Oak hands.
The movement on the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon is the caliber 2930 which is an updated 2913. This movement is hand wound and carries an amazing power reserve of 237 hours (just 3 hours shy of 10 days). The tourbillon maintains the exceptional accuracy on this model due to the negation of the effects of gravity as the tourbillon rotates once every 60 seconds. The balance wheel beats at a constant 21,600 VpH.
This gent’s timepiece is outfitted with a white rubber strap secured using an AP folding clasp made from titanium. The water resistance on this model is a durable 100 meters (330 feet).
TAGS: Audemars Piguet, Ceramic, Concept, Exhibition Case Back, GMT, Haute Horlogerie, Manual Watches, Mechanical Watches, Men's Watches, Power Reserve, Royal Oak, Rubber, Skeleton Watch, Swiss Made, Tourbillon, Water Resistant