Mach, a dedicated collector, shares his journey to acquiring his first Audemars Piguet, a quest marked by perseverance and a refusal to engage in common purchasing tactics. His candid account highlights the evolving landscape of luxury watch acquisition and the unexpected turns a collector's path can take. This article delves into Mach's experience, offering insights into navigating the current market and the thrill of an unexpected horological discovery.
I’m sure you are getting sick of me by now. A lot of us have suffered through multiple trials and tribulations over the last few years as passionate collectors. However, the stars have finally aligned for me! This will be my third incoming in the last 23 days! After my DSSD “James Cameron” and my Speedy Calibre 321 “Ed White,” I’m beyond thrilled to share that I’ve finally received the call for my first AP!🥳
Now to be frank, I’ve been after the 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26315. Over the last few years, I have visited every boutique in the country during my travels to no avail. Unfortunately, it has been now discontinued:😢
I’ve had multiple opportunities to see the Code 11:59 in the metal during these visits. But these various iterations just didn’t doing anything for me. I also got the sense (although this was never explicitly stated) I would have to acquire a Code 11:59 in order to get the ROC. However, I simply refuse to play that game to purchase something I don’t want to get something I do want. It just doesn’t sit well for me. Then, in the 2021, there were no exhibition pieces in any of these boutiques. So, for all intents and purposes, I had thrown in the towel in absolute defeat.
Back on November 26th, I decided to visit the local boutique after over a year since my last visit. I honestly don’t recall what I was thinking at that time. But I decided to pay a visit and say, “Hello. ” I was surprised to see they actually had exhibition pieces on display. As I was talking with the SA, I looked over my right shoulder and saw this Royal Oak Offshore and made the mistake of asking to see it:
From the moment I placed it on my wrist, I was like, “WOW!!! ” I had never really considered the ROO and was totally oblivious to this updated collection. But, the overall execution of this piece was beyond extraordinary IMHO!!! I looked my SA in the eyes and stated, “I want this. Please! What do I need to do to prove to you that I want this? I’ll do whatever it takes! ” Needless to say, it became my mission to obtain one of these and I’m ecstatic to have succeeded in this endeavor:
AP really did an absolutely phenomenal job with this update to the ROO. I much prefer the new 3-6-9 chronograph vs the previous 6-9-12 chronograph. It’s powered the self-winding integrated flyback chronograph (Calibre 4401). Here’s a view of the engine room:
This dial is something else. If you were to tell me that I would acquire a taupe dialed watch years ago or a watch on a rubber strap, I would have responded, “Not in a million years! ” Not only am I truly fascinated by this ROO’s dynamic smoked taupe dial, but it wears so comfortable on the wrist:
It features a quick-changing strap system:
I’m still in disbelief and shock that this has actually occurred. But, as the late Tom Petty sang, “Even the losers get lucky sometimes . . . ”
Now it’s time to put the breaks on!😉
Best,
Mark
About the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 26315ST
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Ref. 26315ST represents a sportier, more robust interpretation of the original Royal Oak design. Positioned within the Offshore collection, it maintains the octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet while introducing a larger case profile and chronograph functionality, appealing to collectors seeking a bolder aesthetic.
This reference features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 38mm in diameter, housing an automatic chronograph movement. The dial often incorporates the 'Méga Tapisserie' pattern, a signature of the Offshore line, with contrasting sub-dials for the chronograph functions. The watch is equipped with screw-locked pushers and crown, enhancing its water resistance.
For collectors, the Ref. 26315ST is notable for its updated proportions and refined finishing compared to earlier Offshore models. It offers a contemporary take on the iconic design, balancing its sporty character with the brand's horological craftsmanship. Its discontinuation has also contributed to its appeal in the secondary market.
Specifications
- Caliber
- AP Caliber 2385
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Various (e.g., blue, grey, black)
- Water Resist.
- 50 meters
- Crystal
- Sapphire
