In the world of luxury watches, few names carry the weight of Audemars Piguet. The brand’s Royal Oak Offshore, affectionately dubbed the “Beast,” has long been a symbol of bold, unapologetic design. But for 2025, AP has unleashed a darker, more enigmatic iteration: the Black-on-Black Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph. This isn’t just a watch; it’s a statement, a shadowy reimagining of a legend.
The story of the Royal Oak Offshore begins in the early 1990s, a time when Audemars Piguet was struggling to find its footing in a changing market. Enter Emmanuel Gueit, a young designer tasked with reinventing the iconic Royal Oak. His creation? A 42mm chronograph that was bigger, bolder, and unapologetically sporty. The original “Beast” was born, complete with its signature rubber gasket, octagonal bezel, and a dial that screamed attitude.
Fast forward to 2023, and the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 26238CE emerged, cloaked entirely in black ceramic. It was a modern homage to the original, retaining the classic bathtub-shaped hands, circular date magnifier, and the unmistakable tapisserie dial. But for 2025, AP has taken things a step further. The new Black-on-Black version ditches the white accents entirely, opting for a monochromatic palette that’s as sleek as it is stealthy.
At first glance, it’s easy to mistake this watch for a simple color swap. But look closer, and you’ll notice the subtle yet significant changes: angular hands, square date windows, and a dial pattern that’s more geometric than ever. The result is a watch that feels both familiar and futuristic, like a classic car reimagined for the electric age.
Beneath its stealthy exterior lies the heart of a true performer. The new Royal Oak Offshore is powered by the in-house Calibre 4404, a modern marvel of horology. With a column wheel, vertical clutch, and flyback function, this movement is as precise as it is powerful. And with a 70-hour power reserve, it’s built to keep up with the demands of modern life.
So, is this new Black-on-Black Royal Oak Offshore still a “Beast”? That depends on your definition. While it lacks some of the original’s defining features, it more than makes up for it with its modern, monochromatic allure. It’s not just a watch; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to Audemars Piguet’s ability to evolve without losing sight of its roots.
Whether you’re a die-hard collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, the Black-on-Black Royal Oak Offshore is a timepiece that demands attention. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s unmistakably AP.
