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Audemars Piguet has once again pushed the boundaries of luxury watchmaking with the introduction of a new ceramic shade, “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50.” This deep blue hue, originally developed for the first Royal Oak in 1972, now takes on a fresh form as it graces ceramic components in three new Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore models.
The rich blue of “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” draws inspiration from the night sky over the Vallée de Joux, where Audemars Piguet has crafted timepieces for over 150 years. This new ceramic material marks a significant milestone, requiring years of research and development to achieve uniformity in color and texture across all watch components. The result is a seamless blend of heritage and innovation.
The first of these stunning timepieces is the 41mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked, entirely crafted from “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic. The rich monochromatic aesthetic highlights the openworked rhodium-toned movement beneath the sapphire crystal, creating a striking visual contrast with pink gold hands and hour markers.
This masterpiece is powered by the self-winding Calibre 3132, which features Audemars Piguet’s patented double balance wheel mechanism. Introduced in 2016, this innovation enhances both precision and stability. The combination of CNC machining and hand-finishing techniques, including polished V-angles, showcases the brand’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.
Another remarkable model in the lineup is the 42mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph. This version embraces a more athletic appeal, with its ceramic case, bezel, and bracelet all showcasing the new blue ceramic hue. The Méga Tapisserie dial, inner bezel, and chronograph counters maintain the same color, delivering a cohesive and powerful aesthetic.
Contrasting stainless steel hexagonal screws on the bezel and titanium details on the caseback and crown chip add subtle variations in texture and tone. Enhancing readability, 18-carat white gold hands and hour markers are filled with luminescent material, ensuring clear visibility in any lighting conditions.
At the heart of this chronograph beats the Calibre 4404, an advanced integrated movement with a column wheel and flyback function. The flyback feature allows users to reset and restart the chronograph instantly, a key function for professional timing. A sapphire caseback offers an intimate view of the movement, reinforcing Audemars Piguet’s commitment to both form and function.
Completing the trio is the 43mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph, which combines stainless steel with “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic elements on the bezel, push-pieces, and crown. This two-tone aesthetic creates a bold and modern contrast, further amplified by the signature Méga Tapisserie dial pattern.
The dial layout ensures optimal legibility, with chronograph counters at 9, 3, and 6 o’clock. A tachymeter scale and the AP monogram at 12 o’clock complete the sophisticated design. This model is powered by the Calibre 4401, which boasts an integrated chronograph with a minute counter, hour counter, and small seconds subdial, all finished in a slightly lighter blue hue for enhanced contrast.
Equipped with a textured calfskin leather strap matching the ceramic’s hue, the watch also includes an additional blue rubber strap. Audemars Piguet’s quick interchangeability system makes switching between straps effortless, further emphasizing the sporty nature of this timepiece.
The introduction of “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic is more than just a design choice—it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of Audemars Piguet and its connection to the Vallée de Joux. This unique color not only honors the past but also paves the way for the future of haute horlogerie.
These three watches embody the brand’s relentless pursuit of excellence, blending tradition with state-of-the-art innovation. Whether in fully ceramic form or paired with stainless steel, each model stands as a testament to the artistry and expertise that have defined Audemars Piguet for over a century.
