Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Safari Comparison

MichaelC · 2014-02-09T17:13:52Z

Compare the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore "Safari" models. MichaelC details the shift from rubber to ceramic, dial color changes, and strap evolution.

MichaelC

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

19 replies9894 views8 photos

MichaelC offers a detailed comparison of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore "Safari" models, contrasting the outgoing reference with the 2014 iteration. His post highlights the aesthetic and material changes, particularly the shift from rubber to ceramic accents and the evolution of the dial and strap. This analysis provides valuable insights for collectors considering either version of this distinctive Offshore.

One of the most intriguing models in the new 42mm Royal Oak Offshore collection is what we refer to as the "Safari" model.

There are very big differences in the two models. Let's start with a review of the outgoing model.

I very happily owned a Safari some years back. The combination of colors on the watch was / is very unique.

This version of the watch used black rubber for the crown and bush buttons, and had blackened numerals and hands.

The numerals on this model seem to have a more sculpted dimension than on other Offshores.

And a slightly glossy finish when viewed in certain light conditions.

The big story on this watch when it first launched was the awesome brown hornback strap it came mounted on. Some say it is too stiff and uncomfortable, and that is just misleading information. It does require a break in period, and it might be a few weeks for some, but I have owned and broken in several AP hornback straps, and they all have become pliable and comfortable.

Oliver, Magnus, and Fx provide us with these images of the new, 2014 42mm Royal Oak Offshore "Safari". Gone are the rubber accents, now replaced by black ceramic. The pushers and crown have also increased in size, and the crown protection case buildout is also modified and now resembles the AP 44mm Offshore collection.

The dial is referred to as "ivory tone" by AP, and certainly looks to have more yellow in it than the previous dial color did. We also see the color brown utilized for the tach ring, subdials, numerals, and hands fill. The date disc has been inverted from the previous generation, with white writing over a black background.

The watch is still issued on a brown hornback strap, but this time comes with a pin buckle. I imagine this will help some with the break in period and provide additional comfort. I can comfortably wear AP's deployant clasp models, but almost always prefer the wider straps with pin buckles.

My initial reaction to the new model is that it could use a little more black on the dial to go with the ceramic pieces. I would start with the numerals and hands, and leave the subdials and tach brown. It certainly is more refined and crisp overall, but I'm not yet sure how well that translates to this specific reference.

Having not seen the new collection in person, I will have to reserve final judgment on the new Safari until I do. I do think this model will be more special on the wrist than in photos. And I'm sure I will be tempted.

But would I choose it over the older reference? I'm not able to say yes at this point, but maybe that will change.

Which version do you prefer and why?

Key Points from the Discussion

The new 2014 Safari model features black ceramic pushers and crown, replacing the previous black rubber, and has a more yellow-toned "ivory" dial with brown accents.
The new Safari's ceramic accents, while fitting for other new Offshore models like the "Stealth," might not align as well with the "Safari" theme as the original rubber components did.
The new model's pin buckle and wider strap are generally preferred for comfort, and the ivory dial pairs well with brown accents.
The original Safari with its all-white dial and rubber parts is preferred by some, with a nostalgic appreciation for its unique character.
A key concern with the new version is the black ceramic pushers and crown, which some feel create a color mismatch as nothing else on the watch is black.
Some collectors express a desire for a display back on the new model and are critical of the date box not matching the dial color, preferring the original Safari's design.

The Discussion

chronos-lorien

Feb 10, 2014

1. Pin buckle is much better to wear, especially for a long time. 2. Ivory dial works better with brown accents. 3. Open back (antimagnetic remains for new model ?? ) Anyway, I need to see new Safari in person for final decision. Bests Vit

amanico

Feb 10, 2014

I prefer the all white dial and the rubber parts. That was a cool Watch, but at that time ( and still nowadays ) I was obsessed by the Orchard Road LE... Best, And thanks for this nice comparison post! Nicolas

rnaden

Feb 10, 2014

I prefer the warmth of the dial better, and the rubber pushers and crown adds to the character of the watch. The shiny ceramic bits on the new model seems to be quite cold for me.

kennygfunk

Feb 10, 2014

Just wish it had display back. Some things are made right the first time, the safari is one of them. I mean... What was wrong with the old safari? Also, what's up with date boxes not matching dial? That bugs me.

AnthonyTsai

Feb 10, 2014

but going on what I see, I do prefer the look of the original one. But I do like the upgraded ceramic parts on the new version though. Cheers, Anthony

MichaelC

Feb 11, 2014

No question on the pin buckle / wide strap combination. Very comfortable. And the ivory certainly pairs well with the brown. I am confirming on the amagnetic properties for you, but do not think the open back models offer the same "protected against magnetic fields" resistance that the previous solid back models do.

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Safari Comparison

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