Audemars Piguet 26240OR.OO.D404CR.01 Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph Watch

Introduction: The Evolution of an Icon

The Royal Oak collection by Audemars Piguet needs no introduction, but the reference 26240OR.OO.D404CR.01 represents its pinnacle of technical and aesthetic evolution. This 41mm Selfwinding Chronograph, crafted entirely in 18k rose gold, is more than a timepiece—it is a statement of horological ambition. It honors the disruptive 1972 original while propelling the legendary “Tapisserie” dial and integrated bracelet design into a new era with its groundbreaking in-house movement. This watch is engineered for the connoisseur who demands both legacy and innovation on their wrist.

Uncompromising Materials and Craftsmanship

At the heart of this watch’s commanding presence is its luxurious material integrity. The 41mm case, bezel, screw-locked crown, chronograph pushers, and the iconic integrated bracelet are hewn from a solid block of 18k rose gold. Audemars Piguet’s signature satin-brushed and polished finishes create a captivating play of light, with each bevel and edge meticulously executed. The anti-reflective sapphire crystal reveals the stunning “Méga Tapisserie” dial, a larger, more dynamic pattern exclusive to this new generation, presented here in a rich smoked grey that contrasts sublimely with the rose gold-toned applied hour-markers and hands.

In-House Horological Mastery: Caliber 4401

Beneath the sculpted caseback lies the true soul of this chronograph: the self-winding Manufacture Caliber 4401. This integrated chronograph movement represents a significant leap forward, featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch mechanism for smooth, instantaneous chronograph start-up without stutter or drag on the timekeeping seconds hand. With a robust 70-hour power reserve and a flyback function—allowing for rapid timing of consecutive events with a single push—the 4401 is built for both precision and practicality. It is a certified chronometer, ensuring peerless accuracy, and its architecture is a visual marvel through the sapphire caseback.

Design and Wrist Presence

The 26240OR is designed for impact and comfort. The 41mm diameter provides a substantial yet balanced presence, while the refined ergonomics of the bracelet ensure it drapes seamlessly around the wrist. The iconic octagonal bezel, secured by eight hexagonal white gold screws, remains an unmistakeable signature. The slate grey “Grande Tapisserie” dial offers exceptional legibility, with rose gold sub-dials for the running seconds, 12-hour, and 30-minute chronograph registers. This is a watch that transitions effortlessly from boardroom to evening, its rose gold construction speaking a universal language of achievement and refined taste.

An Enduring Legacy and Modern Investment

Owning this Royal Oak Chronograph is to hold a piece of watchmaking history that is actively being written. It represents the culmination of decades of innovation from Le Brassus, now equipped with a state-of-the-art, proprietary movement. As part of the new generation that replaced the esteemed 26331 reference, the 26240OR is already establishing its own legacy. Its combination of precious metal, technical prowess, and iconic design ensures it is not merely an accessory, but a tangible asset—a wearable investment that celebrates milestone achievements and is destined to be cherished across generations.