Audemars Piguet

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ginza 7 stands apart from most other limited edition runs from AP because it was created to raise funds for a truly worthy cause - to support the people of Japan as they attempt to rebuild their country after the occurrence of a 9.0 earthquake off the coast of Japan and the resultant devastation caused by the tsunami that hit the country's northern coastal towns in 2011.  I remember spending sleepless nights watching news report after news report as the unbelievable images of the power of the tsunami and its destructive forces swept into our living rooms. Our hearts bled for the people of Japan, and the subsequent apocalyptic threats of the meltdown of the Fukushima nuclear reactor really reminded us of the fragility of life, and how every moment must be treasured.

Which is why the AP Royal Oak Ginza 7 Forged Carbon is truly special (in my opinion) - because it went beyond the usual celebratory raison detre of most limited edition watches. In this respect, i believe Octavio Garcia and the wonderful craftsmen at AP delievered a masterful and utterly respectful timepiece to reflect the totally somber and soulful themes captured in this exquisite limited edition (200 timepieces).

In its essence, the Ginza 7 broke no new ground. Its ceramic bezel and forged carbon case have been applied ito other models prior to its release.  its movement (the ever reliable 3126/3840) have powered other Offshores before it. Its sapphire caseback raises it a notch above other Offshores, but is that what makes the Ginza 7 special?

The Presence:  

The Ginza 7 jet black looks make it uber cool, and highly desirable to be sure.  It's a modern timepiece as only an AP Offshore can achieve. A lot have been said about all-black watches, and the Ginza 7 doesn't actually add to the discussion.  However, the Ginza 7 has an understated aura not found in most all-black watches.  The forged carbon case is a work of art and it really sets the aesthetic standards for every hi-tech watch. As a result of its unique manufacturing process, there isn't an identical forged carbon case anywhere in the world.  You have a one of a kind watch in every forged carbon AP.  Combined with the exquisite ceramic bezel, the Ginza 7 is further elevated in the looks department.  But surprisingly, what makes it truly special is not these glamorous components.  Ironically, it is the totally understated dial that makes the Ginza 7 truly special. 

Stare deep into the face of the Ginza 7.  Notice the absence of the traditional tapisserie pattern that has become the signature of most AP timepieces.  That's rare.  And it was intentional.  Because removing the tapisserie pattern gives the Ginza 7 a somber and soulful look, which befits a watch of this nature. The numerals on the dial are muted black, which is such a stylish treatment consistent with this theme.  What stands out are the sub-dials and the diamond encrusted 7 (a tip of the hat to AP's old showroom address at Ginza, Tokyo). The rings outlining the subdials are tastefully finished in gold. These elements really lift the aesthetic mood of the watch. But for what purpose?  My take is fairly simple: when you look deep into the face of the Ginza 7, it's like staring into the abyss. But the gold and diamond elements remind you that even in darkness, true beauty will shine.  This was demonstrated so magnificently by the people of Japan in the darkest hours of March 2011.  In the midst of anguishing despair, the stoic and resilient spirit of the Japanese people shone so brightly.  That's what the stylistic treatment of the Ginza 7 dial captures admirably.. 

The Performance :  

The 3126/3840 movement in the Ginza 7 has been a revelation.  It's been surprisingly accurate, really reliable and purrs like a finely tuned Rolls Royce.  But the real treat for me is the yin and yang effect delivered by the sapphire case back. When you flip the watch over, you go from somber to "oh-my-gosh" in a heartbeat when you see the beautifully sculpted movement that is the heartbeat of the Ginza 7. Your pulse quickens when you admire the craftsmanship and excellence from Le Brassus. Beauty will shine in darkness.