The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph reference 26715BC.ZZ.1356BC.01 is a 38mm luxury timepiece that blends high-end horology with fine jewelry. The watch is constructed from an 18-carat white gold case and an integrated bracelet, featuring a thickness of 11mm and a water resistance of 50 meters. Its most striking features are the 32 baguette-cut diamonds set into the octagonal bezel and the 12 baguette-cut diamond hour-markers. The dial is finished in a smoked blue gradient with the signature Grande Tapisserie pattern, complemented by blue sub-dials and white gold Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating.
At the heart of the timepiece is the Calibre 2385, a self-winding mechanical movement that provides functions for the chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds, and a date display. The movement operates at a frequency of 3 Hz and consists of 304 parts, offering a minimum power reserve of approximately 40 hours. This column-wheel chronograph mechanism is noted for its slim profile, allowing the watch to maintain a refined silhouette on the wrist despite its mechanical complexity.
General reviews of the 38mm Royal Oak Chronograph often praise its versatility, noting that its proportions allow it to wear similarly to a 40mm Rolex Daytona and make it suitable for smaller wrists. Collectors frequently highlight the captivating play of light between the multifaceted white gold case and the baguette-cut diamonds. While the use of the established Calibre 2385 is appreciated for its historical significance and thinness, some critics point to the lack of a hacking seconds feature and a power reserve that is shorter than more modern in-house alternatives. Additionally, while the aesthetic is widely celebrated, the “busy” nature of the date window placement is occasionally a point of discussion among enthusiasts.