We look at the general policy of the brand's limited-edition models through the Music Edition, the newest member of Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak Offshore collection.
The Royal Oak Offshore has held a unique position among steel chronographs since it was introduced in 1993. AP does not worry about being stylish at all while designing the ROO models. On the contrary, they take every opportunity to create the boldest and most flamboyant pieces ever.
Until a few years ago, Audemars Piguet was releasing so many limited-edition Royal Oak Offshore models for individuals and occasions that neither we could keep up with the speed of the introduction of the watches, nor the enthusiasts could breathe between two consecutive models. So, what happened? Not much is left of the concept of an emptied limited edition watch.
Fortunately, Audemars Piguet, whom we believe has learned from its mistakes, seemed to have abandoned this policy. Renewing the ROO series, under the leadership of RO, the brand has put its signature on watches that emphasize the quality factor, taking into account the characteristic features of the model family. Just when I was thinking that everything was going well, I was shocked again with the RO Concept Flying Tourbillon, which was exclusively produced for the Marvel character Black Panther. On the one hand, the name Audemars Piguet and the tourbillon, one of the most respected complications of the world of horology, on the other hand, a fictional character, a superhero! It turns out that the stale action of Hollywood was more tempting than the avant-garde elegance of Switzerland. Or, let's put it this way, there was no harm in trampling on the core values of the brand so that the newly rich could cash in their dollars.
We continued by saying “Everybody makes mistakes”. Yet, we are here with the Music Edition. I identify the Audemars Piguet brand with a timeless musician and a musical piece, not a DJ trying to stay on the agenda with his sensational life, or a pile of notes that are consumed/forgotten within minutes after they are produced. I guess AP’s management does not agree with me. Honestly, I'm sure that all watches will be sold in a flash with artists(!) who appear on the stage with bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and even teeth adorned with diamonds and their trousers below knee-level.
Let's give the devil her due. Audemars Piguet has abundantly sprinkled superior material quality and craftsmanship in these versions, as it does in all its models. Watches with 37mm and 43mm case options have titanium, 18K white gold covered with diamonds, and black ceramic case options. Equalizer-patterned dials, strap connectors with the same motif as the headphone jack grip, and sliding button-patterned crown guards are equipped with the Caliber 5909 (60-hour power reserve) and Caliber 4309 (70-hour power reserve) movements, free from a date display.
This trend will surely come to an end. Just as the period of campaigning for a new limited-edition ROO model every week has come to an end, these watches, which are produced without worrying about reflecting the stylish and high-quality identity of the brand, will also come to an end. Until then, we, real watch enthusiasts, will continue our hobby with watches from real manufacturers.
