The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph reference 26240OR.OO.1320OR.02 is a 41mm luxury timepiece released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak collection. This model is crafted from 18k pink gold and features the collection’s signature octagonal bezel with eight hexagonal screws. The design incorporates several refinements introduced for the anniversary year, including wider polished bevels on the case and a more integrated caseback for improved ergonomics. The black dial is decorated with the “Grande Tapisserie” pattern and features pink gold applied hour-markers and Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. To celebrate the milestone, watches produced in 2022 include a special “50-years” oscillating weight visible through the sapphire crystal caseback.
In terms of complications, the watch is powered by the in-house Calibre 4401, a self-winding integrated chronograph movement with a flyback function. This allows the wearer to stop, reset, and start the chronograph with a single press of the lower pusher. The dial layout includes 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 date window positioned between 4 and 5 o’clock. The movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz and provides a substantial 70-hour power reserve. The case is equipped with a screw-down crown and provides water resistance up to 50 meters.
General reviews of the 26240OR highlight its impressive presence on the wrist, noting that its sharp angles and polished rose gold surfaces catch light significantly, making it a highly recognizable and “flashy” piece. While praised for its exceptional finishing and movement, some collectors mention that the 41mm case tends to wear larger, more like a 43mm, due to the integrated lug design. The updated bracelet is often cited for its improved comfort due to thinner, lighter links and a better taper. However, the watch is frequently described as a “scratch magnet” because of its soft gold construction and prominent polished facets, leading reviewers to suggest it be worn with care rather than as a robust daily instrument. Some enthusiasts have also noted minor mechanical sensitivities, specifically regarding the alignment or drifting of the chronograph hands.