Watch
Audemars Piguet Introduces a Refined 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph for Diverse Wrist Sizes
Audemars Piguet has launched a refined 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph, a significant update for enthusiasts and collectors. This new iteration, powered by an in-house caliber, aims to resolve earlier issues associated with the movement and broadens its appeal to those with more slender wrists. The introduction of this model marks a strategic move by the brand to enhance its offerings in the luxury sports watch segment.
A critical improvement in this new model is the integration of the caliber 6401, an in-house movement developed to supersede the older Frédéric Piguet caliber 1185. This new engine significantly boosts the watch's reliability and performance, boasting a 55-hour power reserve and a 4Hz beat rate. While it foregoes the flyback function of its 41mm counterpart, the new movement’s robust design and column-wheel mechanism address past concerns regarding chronograph function and long-term durability. Furthermore, the watch’s dimensions, now at 38mm by 11.1mm, demonstrate a commendable engineering feat, retaining a slim profile despite the inclusion of an open caseback that reveals the intricate workings and the gold automatic rotor.
Beyond technical enhancements, the 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph showcases thoughtful aesthetic redesigns. The dial features a repositioned sub-dial layout and maintains the signature “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 petite tapisserie” pattern. The steel version, with its matching sub-dials, is anticipated to be a popular choice due to its balanced design and versatility. Although the new model is priced slightly higher, its enhanced reliability and ergonomic considerations make it an attractive proposition for a diverse range of watch collectors, embodying a perfect blend of tradition and innovation in horology.
This launch reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and an understanding of the evolving preferences within the watch community. By focusing on both performance and wearability, Audemars Piguet ensures that its iconic Royal Oak collection remains at the forefront of luxury watchmaking.
Other Articles
Feb 19, 2026Richard Mille Unveils RM 41-01 Tourbillon Soccer Watch for World Cup Year
Richard Mille has introduced the RM 41-01 Tourbillon Soccer watch, its latest creation designed specifically for football enthusiasts. This timepiece, launched in a World Cup year, goes beyond simple match timing, offering advanced functionalities to track game periods and scores for both teams. Featuring innovative materials like Red Carmin Basalt TPT and a complex mechanical movement with a tourbillon, the watch is available in two limited-edition colorways, each priced at nearly two million USD.
Feb 19, 2026Swiss Watch Exports Face Renewed Decline in January After Brief December Recovery
Swiss watch exports experienced a significant downturn in January, falling by 3.6% year-over-year to approximately $2.5 billion. This decline follows a temporary surge in December, fueled by reduced U.S. tariffs. The slump was particularly pronounced in precious metal and high-value timepieces, with the U.S. market showing the most substantial decrease. Rising gold prices and global inflation further compound the industry's challenges.
Feb 19, 2026Ba111od Unveils Chapter 8 Family Legacy Special Editions: A Tribute to Horological Heritage
Ba111od introduces its Chapter 8 Family Legacy Special Editions, a collection that honors over 250 years of the family's watchmaking tradition in Neuchâtel. These elegant timepieces draw inspiration from historical pocket watches, blending classic design elements with modern craftsmanship. Available in stainless steel and gold-plated versions, these watches feature intricate guilloché and sunray dials, powered by the automatic Soprod C110 movement. Priced at CHF 1,110, they offer a sophisticated option for watch enthusiasts.