Audemars Piguet ROO Chronograph Movement Upgrade

Key Points from the Discussion

• A new Royal Oak Offshore, purchased in 2021, experienced significant accuracy issues (30 seconds fast per day) and an erratic second hand, leading to a movement replacement under warranty with an 'upgraded' version, though the specifics of the upgrade were not disclosed by AP.
• The offer of a new movement for a minimal additional cost suggests potential underlying issues with the older movement, making it more cost-effective for AP to replace it than to repeatedly service a potentially problematic design.
• While ideal watches should be perfect, issues like erratic movements are not uncommon, even with high-end brands. Service wait times can also be extensive, with some brands taking up to a year for basic services.
• The lack of transparency from AP regarding the nature of the 'upgrade' and the initial quality control issues on a high-value timepiece can lead to a frustrating customer experience, despite the issue ultimately being resolved.
• The notion that AP would sell a movement, including installation, for $1,510 (or $10 more than a standard service) at a loss is unlikely, suggesting the actual cost of the movement itself is significantly lower than its perceived value within the watch.