Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ref. 26238CE: MTR's 'Beast' Acquisition

MTR · 2024-07-16T18:35:09Z

Explore MTR's acquisition of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ref. 26238CE 'The Beast.' Discover insights on its ceramic case, Calibre 4404, and collector's journey.

MTR

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

35 replies7663 views7 photos

MTR, a seasoned collector, shares his journey to acquiring the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ref. 26238CE, affectionately known as 'The Beast.' This article delves into MTR's rationale for a significant collection change, highlighting his 'one in, one out' philosophy and the meticulous research that led to this ceramic marvel. His detailed first impressions offer valuable insights for anyone considering this iconic timepiece.

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A dream come true.

I already announced it in my thread "One in - one out". Please forgive me for keeping you in suspense (addressed to everyone who put themselves in suspense 😎), but it was a really fragile deal.

True to my motto "one has to go when another comes", I finally succeeded and got my hands on this dream piece.

In return my Patek Aqua Traveller 5164R had to go. A wonderful watch in terms of appearance and quality, but it just didn't suit me and I didn't really like wearing it. As much as I liked it in the pictures. But the love was hot but only short-lived. And I simply have made the clear decision for myself not to keep any watch in my collection that I don't like wearing. As hard and difficult as the decision was in this case.

And this beauty came in instead:
The Reference 26238CE.OO.1300CE.01 called „The Beast“

My first AP is also a very special one:
1. It was launched last year to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the ROO.
2. For the first time Audemars Piguet introduced a black ceramic case with a black ceramic bracelet (equipped with a titanium AP folding clasp).
The most important features:
case size 42 mm
height 15.3 mm
WR 100 m
In-house calibre 4404: integrated automatic chronograph movement, with column wheel and flyback function

I am over the moon. 🙏☺️

Here some first shots of this marvel:

All the best
Thomas

Key Points from the Discussion

The ceramic Royal Oak Offshore, despite its 42mm case, wears larger due to the monochromatic integration of the case and bracelet, creating a cohesive visual presence on the wrist.
The ceramic used in the Ref. 26238CE is noted for its high quality and robustness, offering enhanced scratch resistance and a degree of impact resilience, though direct impact testing is not recommended.
Despite initial concerns about fit, the ceramic bracelet's sizing, even with a slight gap, proved comfortable in varying temperatures, with half-links being a special order option from AP.
The in-house Calibre 4404, an integrated automatic chronograph movement with a column wheel and flyback function, demonstrates exceptional precision, including an instantaneous date change at midnight, a feature often absent in watches of comparable luxury.
The decision to part with a Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5164R, despite its quality, underscores a collector's evolving preference for watches that genuinely resonate with personal wearing habits, even if it means selling at a loss.
MTR's experience highlights the importance of thorough research, including online reviews and videos, especially when acquiring a high-value timepiece like the ceramic Royal Oak Offshore without prior physical interaction.
The watch's weight, while lighter than steel, is surprisingly substantial for a ceramic piece, contributing to a perception of high quality and solid construction.

The Discussion

GWIS

Jul 16, 2024

Very cool Thomas (as always!)

I really like this offshore, and being full ceramic should mean that it’s a care free wearing experience. Many congratulations and enjoy your watch. All the best, Jon

MTR

Jul 16, 2024

Very kind, dear Jon! ☺️🙏

The ceramic seems to be at a very high quality level. I am safe from scratches and apparently also from strong impacts. I don't want to imagine what would happen if the watch fell from a height of 1 m onto a stone floor, for example. Although I was reassured here and told that the material would only break if the impact was at an unfavourable/unfortunate angle. I still don't want to imagine it. And I certainly don't want to try it out. 😎

Ted O

Jul 16, 2024

Congrats — super nice, love the all black look!

As well as your monochromatic Hublot.

MTR

Jul 16, 2024

Thank you, dear Ted!

I have been looking for a black ceramic watch for a while (my Hautlence is DLC coated). I also kept thinking about your wonderful MECA 10. But in the end it was out of question for me because I already have the beautiful Hublot Big Bang Essential Grey you mentioned and I also really wanted a ceramic bracelet.

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Jul 16, 2024

It looks fabulous Thomas! Congrats!

MTR

Jul 16, 2024

Thank you dear Yacomino!

Here a night shot especially for you! ☺️ The readability of the dial is perfect in all lighting conditions. Cheers Thomas

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ref. 26238CE: MTR's 'Beast' Acquisition

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