In our opinion (and probably for many others), the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is the most iconic model from Audemars Piguet, and the reasons for this are countless. Beginning its journey in the 1970s, thanks to the brilliant designer Gerald Genta, this series has undergone numerous interpretations, but a few things remain unchanged – the octagonal case, the “waffle” dial, the design of the lugs, and the characteristic industrial spirit.

But let's start with a few facts. The first Royal Oak Chronograph was launched only in 1997 in a 39 mm version. Fifteen years later, in 2012, a 41-millimeter version was introduced for the first time, and despite the more modern size, the 39 mm remains an extremely sought-after and valuable variant.

In 2007, the manufacture introduced a limited series of three versions in different materials. The model presented today is crafted from solid rose gold (for the first time in a 44 mm case) and was produced in only 600 pieces. It pays tribute to the winner of that year's America’s Cup – the Alinghi sailing team, based in Geneva.

The partnership between Audemars Piguet and Alinghi led to the creation of a number of interesting models, but this particular one has the honor of being the first in the 44 mm size – a fact that makes it extremely sought-after and rare on the secondary market. The differences compared to the standard Royal Oak Offshore 44 are immediately visible – a rose gold case, the Alinghi logo (the red handwritten letter “Alfa”), and the case back with a medallion depicting a yacht crew in a race, surrounded by the inscription “Royal Oak Offshore Alinghi Team Limited Edition”.

Last but not least, we must note the regatta timer function. It is used by skippers to precisely determine the moment to cross the starting line. Unlike in motor sports, in regattas, the participants cannot stand still, which is why there is a countdown (usually 5, 7, or 10 minutes). This model offers a 10-minute regatta timer, located in the window at “3 o’clock”.

As most of you probably know, in the early versions of the Offshore chronographs, AP used the caliber 2326/2840, until 2007, when it was replaced by the in-house 3126/3840. In this particular model – and only in it – the special caliber AP 2326/2848 is used: a modular chronograph with a regatta timer, operating at 21,600 vibrations, with 50 jewels and over 60 hours of power reserve. For an additional luxurious accent, the balance has an arc of 21-carat gold.

A truly unique proposition – and the fact that the available examples on the market can be counted on one hand only confirms that this limited series has already found its place in serious collections. The present timepiece is one of the rare opportunities to acquire such a model, and in excellent condition of the case and bezel.