Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic 'Beast': A Collector's Full-Circle Journey

pfang56 · 2023-03-04T18:49:44Z

Discover pfang56's 20-year journey with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 'Beast,' from stainless steel to the new ceramic model. Explore its enhanced wearability, scratch resistance, and refined chronograph action.

pfang56

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

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Peter, known as pfang56, shares his profound joy and emotional connection to the Audemars Piguet Ceramic Royal Oak Offshore 'Beast,' marking a full-circle journey in his two-decade collecting experience. His post offers a unique perspective on the evolution of this iconic reference, highlighting the practical and aesthetic advantages of the ceramic iteration over its stainless steel predecessor. This article delves into why the ceramic version resonates so deeply with a seasoned collector and how it redefines the 'Beast' experience.

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After over 20 years of collecting AP, and starting with the stainless Beast, I'm incredibly full of joy and emotion to acquire the Ceramic Beast.

I still remember the day when I had to choose between a Stainless Beast and the SS Daytona - and I knew at that moment the Beast would be my choice. It was Bold, Audacious, Avant Garde, Uncommon, and Fun - and I always enjoyed sharing the story of AP to others who came to watch meets with the SS Daytona.

I'm absolutely enjoying this ceramic beast more than my original stainless as:
A) it is WAY lighter than I remember
B) it is much more scratch resistant than the past
C) it has a smooth chrono action - unlike the rather charming "jumping chrono hand" JLC 889 module
D) it is also way understated than the past

Many thanks to my incredible friends at AP - to live this collecting experience full circle - from stainless Beast to ceramic Beast - is a dream come true.

Here are a few early wrist shots!

Peter

Key Points from the Discussion

The ceramic 'Beast' offers a significantly lighter and more scratch-resistant wearing experience compared to the original stainless steel model, enhancing daily wearability.
The new ceramic model features a smooth chronograph action, a notable improvement over the 'jumping chrono hand' characteristic of the JLC 889 module found in earlier versions.
Despite its bold design, the ceramic 'Beast' is perceived as more understated and less prone to drawing attention than its stainless steel counterpart, making it suitable for various environments, including air travel.
A common concern among collectors regarding all-black ceramic pieces is their long-term aging and how the material will hold up over decades.
The ceramic 'Beast' exhibits dynamic visual qualities under different lighting conditions, appearing distinct from other ceramic watches.
The ceramic case and bracelet elevate the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore to another level of desirability, leading to speculation about its production numbers and exclusivity.

The Discussion

ArmisT

Mar 4, 2023

Do you have the original steel Beast? A side by side would be great.

Gwai

Mar 4, 2023

I was very much looking forward to seeing this one on someone's wrist. Truly stunning. Cheers Marc

MichaelC

Mar 4, 2023

Congratulations Peter!

pfang56

Mar 4, 2023

Cool on the touch and cool on the look... Cheers Peter

pfang56

Mar 4, 2023

20 plus years ago I could only afford one haute horologerie piece - and sadly that one had to be let go for another piece. Anyway - appreciate the note!! Cheers Peter

pfang56

Mar 4, 2023

Feel extremely fortunate here - definitely more understated than I expected - which is a huge plus for me Peter

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic 'Beast': A Collector's Full-Circle Journey

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