Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 26470ST Discontinued
About This Watch
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 26470ST was the first Offshore to feature a 42mm case, downsizing from the previous 44mm references and marking a shift toward more wearable proportions. The Offshore was originally created in 1993 by Emmanuel Gueit as a bolder, more aggressive interpretation of the Royal Oak for extreme sports enthusiasts. The 26470ST maintained the Offshore's muscular character while being more accessible for daily wear. The "Mega Tapisserie" dial pattern, exclusive to the Offshore, features a larger, bolder grid than the Royal Oak's "Grande Tapisserie," reflecting the collection's more assertive personality. The blue dial with contrasting white sub-registers provides excellent chronograph legibility. The rubber strap, a signature of the Offshore collection, provides comfort during active pursuits while maintaining the luxurious feel expected of AP. The caliber 3126/3840 is a column-wheel chronograph with excellent reliability. Since discontinuation, the 26470ST has become increasingly sought after as collectors recognize the 42mm Offshore as the perfect balance between presence and wearability.
In-Depth Review
# The Evolution of an Icon: Audemars Piguet's Offshore Chronograph
When Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak Offshore in 1993, it represented a deliberate departure from the dress-watch sensibilities that had defined the original Royal Oak. The 26470ST.OO.A027CA.01 continues that tradition as a thoroughly modern sports chronograph, one that refuses to apologize for its 42mm footprint or bold aesthetic choices. The case construction in stainless steel, paired with the signature octagonal bezel and exposed screws, creates a visual language immediately recognizable to collectors. What distinguishes this particular iteration is the restraint of its blue dial treatment—the "Mega Tapisserie" pattern provides textural sophistication without resorting to the overstyled aesthetic that sometimes plagues large-casepiece design. The integrated blue rubber strap reinforces the watch's technical character while maintaining the cohesive color story that elevates it beyond typical sport-watch conventions. Behind the dial, the in-house caliber 3126/3840 delivers respectable specifications: a 50-hour power reserve and 59 jewels, though the chronograph mechanism itself is admittedly functional rather than revolutionary.
This watch appeals to collectors who have moved beyond entry-level luxury watches but seek something with demonstrable purpose. The 100-meter water resistance and chronograph complications position it as equally suitable for boardroom discussions as weekend diving excursions—a versatility that justifies the substantial investment. However, the secondary market has been less forgiving than Audemars Piguet's retail pricing might suggest. The discontinued 26470ST trades around $40,000 today, a significant premium over its original $30,500 retail figure, yet it faces stiff competition from alternatives like the Ro
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | AP 3126/3840 |
| Power Reserve | 50 hours |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph |
| Jewels | 59 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 42.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.2mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, octagonal with exposed screws |
| Dial Color | Blue "Mega Tapisserie" |
| Lug-to-Lug | 50.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 100m / 328ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Blue rubber strap |
| Clasp | Stainless Steel pin buckle |
| Weight | 130g |
| Complications |