Fake Audemars Piguet unveiled a new evolution of the original 1993 Royal Oak Offshore (then designed by Emmanuel Gueit), with three 42mm models in steel, titanium or 18K rose gold which, while retaining the essence of the original watch, are equipped with the latest automatic chronograph with the Manufacture’s flyback function, the new interchangeable strap system and, last but not least, a slightly revised dial design. Completing the whole is the return of the sapphire crystal caseback. The new integrated self-winding chronograph, Caliber 4404, is equipped with a column wheel and flyback function which, unlike a normal chronograph, allows the user to stop, reset and start the chronograph with a simple action. The column wheel works in conjunction with a vertical coupling system. When the chronograph is started or stopped, the hands respond accordingly without jumping. In addition, the buttons make it easier for the user to press. A patented reset mechanism ensures that each of the counter hands is instantly reset to zero. It is also possible to admire the dedicated oscillating weight in 22-karat rose gold and the refined finishing of the movement made by hand, including “Côtes de Genève”, satin finishes and polished bevels.

Audemars Piguet had launched a previous model made entirely of titanium in 2004, but it is the first time that it presents an evolution of the 1993 timepiece with the “Petite Tapisserie” motif in 18-karat rose gold. The case and bracelet of the three models have been finished by hand with alternating satin and polished bevels, a distinctive feature of the Manufacture. The references in steel and rose gold are embellished with blue rubber buttons and crown and a blue rubber gasket that allows the bezel to be sealed to the case, while the titanium fake watches sports a crown, a gasket and pushers all made in black rubber. The steel variant features the iconic blue dial of the 1993 Royal Oak Offshore, a color referred to as “Night Blue, Cloud 50” in the Manufacture’s archives. The pink gold reference features the “Night Blue, Cloud 50” dial with rose gold colored counters that recall the color of the precious case. Last but not least, the titanium version features a light gray dial accentuated by black counters and a black flange. Although the models retained the vertical counter of the original Royal Oak Offshore, the hour and small seconds counters have been reversed: the hour counter is now positioned at 12 o’clock, while the small seconds counter appears at 6 o’clock. of the minutes, on the other hand, remained at 9 o’clock. In addition, all the counters are now equidistant from the center of the dial for greater visual impact. With a reference to the original watch, the initials AP applied in gold and the transferred “Audemars Piguet” signature are located at 3 o’clock. The date window is also embellished with a magnifying glass integrated into the dial to enlarge the date number ( as in the original 1993 model). As I mentioned above, these new models feature the Manufacture’s new interchangeable strap system, first presented on metal bracelets. The interchangeability system has been integrated directly into the closure and lugs of the case, in perfect harmony with the aesthetic codes of the case. The simplicity will allow customers to change the bracelets and clasps of their new timepiece on their own with a quick click, while the double-pressure system ensures optimal safety when the watch is worn on the wrist.

The metal bracelet can be replaced by a rubber strap for a sportier look as the latest 42mm versions feature a second interchangeable rubber strap – blue for the steel and rose gold versions; black for the titanium one. The three models have a water resistance of 100 meters when worn with a rubber strap. The power reserve is about 70 hours (therefore able to “pass” the weekend test: remove it on Friday and put it back on Monday morning). The 2021 interchangeable strap assortment for the 42mm Royal Oak Offshore also includes a blue and khaki textured rubber strap, as well as a black calfskin strap.