BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
As the leading watchmaker in the world, Audemars Piguet doesn’t shy away from pioneering in horology and leading the charge. Their newest timepiece the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date 26650FO is no different, as this timepiece features a unique luminescent carbon case, which is a first for the brand.
While originally introduced in 2023, the lightweight and non-porous material that Audemars Piguet dubbed as “Chroma Forged Technology (CFT) carbon”, is what the 43mm case of the watch is made of. It gives the watch those blue luminescent pigments. The CFT process allows for direct coloring of carbon fibers, resulting in a more scratch-resistant material that has a unique pattern to boot. The CFT construct is complemented by a black ceramic bezel, crown, push-pieces, and caseback. The case is slightly curved for comfort and offers water resistance up to 50 meters.
The dial is openworked where the circular apertures reveal the movement, while the inner bezel and counters are finished in an electric blue hue for contrast and legibility. The hands and hour markers are made in white gold and filled with blue-glowing luminescent material whereas a GMT day-night display is located at 3 o’clock, and the pushers at 2, 4, and 9 o’clock control the chronograph functions.
Driving the watch is the self-winding Calibre 4407 movement which offers a slit-seconds mechanism that allows for precise measurement of intermediate time intervals. The movement has a 70-hour power reserve and beats at a frequency of 4 Hz.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date 26650FO is available with a blue and a black rubber strap. The watch is priced upon request.
