The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph reference 26240CE.OO.1225CE.01 is a sophisticated 41mm timepiece released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection. It is distinguished by its full black ceramic construction, including the case, octagonal bezel, and integrated bracelet, which offers exceptional scratch resistance and a sleek, monochromatic aesthetic. The watch features a black Grande Tapisserie dial adorned with pink gold applied hour markers and luminescent Royal Oak hands, providing a refined contrast. A key highlight of this anniversary edition is the dedicated 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight featuring the 50-years logo, visible through the glareproofed sapphire crystal caseback.
Technically, the watch is powered by the in-house Calibre 4401, a self-winding movement that integrates a column-wheel system and a flyback function, allowing the chronograph to be restarted without first being stopped or reset. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz and provides a substantial power reserve of 70 hours. Its complications include a flyback chronograph with a 12-hour counter at 3 o’clock, a 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock, and small seconds at 6 o’clock, along with a discreet date aperture located between 4 and 5 o’clock. The case is designed for everyday durability with a screw-locked crown and water resistance up to 50 meters.
General reviews emphasize the watch’s commanding presence and the high level of craftsmanship required to finish ceramic to the same standard as stainless steel or gold. Collectors often praise the flyback functionality and the visual appeal of the commemorative rotor, noting that the all-black design makes the 41mm case appear more compact and wearable than its steel counterparts. While the stealthy, modern look is widely admired, some enthusiasts point out that the high price point and limited availability reflect its status as a high-end collector’s piece. The integration of traditional finishing techniques like circular graining and polished chamfers on a modern material like ceramic is frequently cited as a testament to the brand’s technical prowess.