Audemars Piguet Royal Oak White Unisex Watch - — USD 45,000

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph reference 26022BA.00.D088CR.01 represents a luxurious and distinct iteration within the celebrated Royal Oak collection, showcasing the line's versatility beyond its iconic integrated bracelet. Introduced as part of an earlier generation of Royal Oak Chronographs, this model seamlessly blends the instantly recognizable Gérald Genta-designed octagonal case with the practical complication of a chronograph, establishing its place as a sophisticated sports watch. Crafted from 18k yellow gold, the 39mm case exudes a warm opulence, beautifully contrasting with the silver guilloche dial. This meticulously executed dial features the signature "Grande Tapisserie" pattern, providing a rich texture that catches the light, while the three subsidiary registers for the chronograph and running seconds, along with a date aperture, maintain excellent legibility. Diverging from the standard, the 26022BA.00.D088CR.01 is presented on a brown leather strap, which offers an alternative aesthetic to the integrated gold bracelet, lending a more classic and perhaps understated elegance to the otherwise bold precious metal case. Powering the Royal Oak Chronograph is an automatic movement, typically the Audemars Piguet Calibre 2385, a highly regarded integrated chronograph movement based on the Frédéric Piguet 1185 ébauche. This caliber is celebrated for its slim profile, column-wheel mechanism, and robust performance, providing precise timekeeping for the hours, minutes, subsidiary seconds, chronograph functions, and date display. The integration of such a high-quality movement underscores Audemars Piguet's commitment to horological excellence in its sports watch offerings. For collectors, the reference 26022BA.00.D088CR.01 holds particular appeal due to its specific configuration. The combination of its 18k yellow gold case, silver guilloche dial, and the less common brown leather strap distinguishes it from its more prevalent bracelet-equipped counterparts. It signifies a period where Audemars Piguet explored diverse material and presentation options for its flagship Royal Oak Chronograph, offering a unique blend of sporty functionality and refined luxury that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a distinctive piece of Royal Oak history.