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Expert Review: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (Ref. 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01)

by Thomas Jentzsch on May 8, 2023

Audemars Piguet is a brand that needs no introduction in the world of luxury watches. The brand has been synonymous with innovation, precision, and elegance for over a century. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon is a watch that embodies all of these qualities and more. This timepiece is a true masterpiece of horology, featuring a tourbillon complication that is both visually stunning and technically impressive. In this review, we will take a closer look at the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (Reference: 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01) and explore what makes it such a remarkable watch. From its design to its performance, we will examine every aspect of this timepiece to help you decide if it is the right watch for you. So, without further ado, let's dive into the world of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon.

Brand Summary

Audemars Piguet is a luxury Swiss watch brand known for its high-end timepieces. The Royal Oak Tourbillon is one of their most prestigious models, featuring a complex tourbillon movement and a sleek, modern design. The reference 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01 is a particularly striking version of the watch, with a rose gold case and matching bracelet. Overall, Audemars Piguet is a brand that represents the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and design.

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Watch Details

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (Reference: 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01) is an exceptional timepiece that combines the iconic design of the Royal Oak with the technical complexity of a tourbillon mechanism. The watch is part of the Royal Oak collection by Audemars Piguet, a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer known for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.

The 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01 Royal Oak Tourbillon was released in 2018 and quickly became a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors. The watch features a 41mm 18-carat pink gold case and bracelet, with a silver-toned dial and pink gold hands and markers. The tourbillon function is displayed at the 6 o’clock position, providing accurate timekeeping and a visually striking design element.

The Royal Oak Tourbillon is powered by a highly complicated and precise manual-winding movement, the Audemars Piguet Caliber 2924, which provides a power reserve of up to 70 hours. The watch also features a sapphire crystal glass with an anti-reflective coating on both sides, ensuring optimal readability in any lighting condition.

The 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01 Royal Oak Tourbillon is available for purchase at a high-end price point, with a retail price of around $200,000 USD. However, the actual price may vary depending on the region and the authorized dealer. The watch is available for purchase both online and in Audemars Piguet boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide.

The Royal Oak Tourbillon is a limited edition watch, with only 50 pieces produced worldwide. Each watch is individually numbered on the case back, adding to its exclusivity and collectability. The limited edition status of the Royal Oak Tourbillon has made it a highly sought-after watch among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Overall, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (26516OR.OO.1220OR.01) is a technical and design masterpiece. Its iconic design, sophisticated tourbillon function, and high-quality construction make it a valuable and versatile investment that is sure to appreciate in value over time. Whether you are a watch collector or simply appreciate the art of horology, the Royal Oak Tourbillon is a timepiece that is sure to impress.

Key Features

  • 41mm 18-carat pink gold case
  • Octagonal bezel with eight hexagonal screws
  • Skeletonized dial with pink gold hour markers and hands
  • Tourbillon complication visible at 6 o’clock
  • Manual-winding movement with 70-hour power reserve
  • Transparent caseback
  • Water-resistant up to 50 meters
  • Integrated pink gold bracelet with AP folding clasp
  • Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
  • Limited edition of 50 pieces

 

PRO (+)

  • Exquisite design and craftsmanship
  • Highly accurate tourbillon movement
  • Beautiful rose gold case and bracelet
  • Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
  • Water-resistant up to 50 meters
  • Limited edition model
  • Comes with a 5-year warranty
  • Highly collectible and sought-after timepiece

CONTRA (-)

  • Very expensive, making it inaccessible for most people
  • Complicated movement requires regular maintenance and servicing, which can also be costly
  • Large size may not be suitable for those with smaller wrists
  • Heavy weight may be uncomfortable for extended wear
  • Minimalist design may not appeal to those who prefer more ornate or flashy watches

Comparable Watches

When it comes to comparable watches to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon, there are a few options that come to mind. One such option is the Patek Philippe Nautilus Tourbillon (Reference: 5990/1A-001). Like the Royal Oak, the Nautilus is a highly sought-after luxury sports watch with a similar design aesthetic. The Nautilus Tourbillon features a stainless steel case and bracelet, and a blue dial with a tourbillon complication at 6 o'clock. It is powered by the Patek Philippe Caliber CH 28-520 C movement and has a power reserve of 55 hours.

Another comparable watch is the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon (Reference: 6000V/110A-B544). The Overseas is another luxury sports watch with a similar design to the Royal Oak and Nautilus. The Overseas Tourbillon features a stainless steel case and bracelet, and a blue dial with a tourbillon complication at 6 o'clock. It is powered by the Vacheron Constantin Caliber 2160 movement and has a power reserve of 80 hours.

Overall, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon stands out as a unique and highly desirable luxury sports watch. However, for those looking for comparable options, the Patek Philippe Nautilus Tourbillon and Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon are both excellent choices.

Watch Collectors Opinions

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (Reference: 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01) has garnered a lot of attention from watch collectors and reviewers alike. Many have praised the watch for its stunning design and impressive technical features. The Royal Oak Tourbillon is a true masterpiece of horology, featuring a tourbillon complication that is visible through the watch's sapphire crystal caseback. The watch's 41mm case is made of 18k rose gold, giving it a luxurious and elegant look.

One of the most notable features of the Royal Oak Tourbillon is its dial, which is adorned with a "Grande Tapisserie" pattern that is unique to Audemars Piguet. The dial also features rose gold hour markers and hands, which complement the case perfectly. The watch is powered by the Calibre 2924 movement, which is one of the thinnest tourbillon movements in the world. This movement is hand-wound and has a power reserve of 70 hours.

Many watch collectors and reviewers have praised the Royal Oak Tourbillon for its technical prowess and attention to detail. The watch is a true work of art, and its design and construction are second to none. Some have noted that the watch is quite expensive, but most agree that it is worth the price for those who appreciate fine watchmaking. Overall, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon is a stunning watch that is sure to impress even the most discerning watch collectors.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon (Reference: 26516OR.OO.1220OR.01) is a remarkable timepiece that has captured the attention of watch enthusiasts around the world. Its stunning design, technical features, and attention to detail make it a true masterpiece of horology. The watch's 18k rose gold case and unique "Grande Tapisserie" dial pattern give it a luxurious and elegant look that is sure to turn heads.

The Royal Oak Tourbillon's tourbillon complication is visible through the watch's sapphire crystal caseback, showcasing the intricate mechanics of the watch. The Calibre 2924 movement, one of the thinnest tourbillon movements in the world, is hand-wound and has a power reserve of 70 hours. These technical features have earned the watch high praise from collectors and reviewers alike.

While the Royal Oak Tourbillon is undoubtedly expensive, most agree that it is worth the price for those who appreciate fine watchmaking. The watch is a true work of art, and its design and construction are second to none. It is a testament to Audemars Piguet's commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of luxury watches.

Overall, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon is a stunning watch that is sure to impress even the most discerning watch collectors. Its combination of technical prowess, attention to detail, and luxurious design make it a true masterpiece of horology.

FAQs

What is a tourbillon and why is it special?
A tourbillon is a mechanism in a watch that rotates the balance wheel and escapement to counteract the effects of gravity on timekeeping. It is special because it is a very complicated mechanism to produce and it improves the accuracy of the watch.

How accurate is the Royal Oak Tourbillon?
The accuracy of the Royal Oak Tourbillon is +/- 2 seconds per day, which is an exceptional level of accuracy for a mechanical watch.

What is the power reserve of the Royal Oak Tourbillon?
The power reserve of the Royal Oak Tourbillon is approximately 72 hours, meaning it can run for three full days without needing to be wound.

What is the case material of the Royal Oak Tourbillon?
The case of the Royal Oak Tourbillon is made of 18-carat rose gold, which is a luxurious and durable material that adds to the value of the watch.

Is the Royal Oak Tourbillon water-resistant?
Yes, the Royal Oak Tourbillon is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and light water activities. However, it is not recommended for diving.

 

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