The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph collection represents the evolution of what many consider the original luxury sports watch. Since Gerald Genta created the Royal Oak in 1972, AP has continued refining and expanding the line with new sizes, materials, and complications. These chronographs share the iconic octagonal bezel with hexagonal screws, integrated bracelets, and the distinctive Grande Tapisserie dial pattern that collectors instantly recognize. We’ve had the opportunity to check these out up close recently.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 38mm Rose Gold Silver Dial Diamond Bezel 26715OR.ZZ.1356OR.01
The 26715OR proves that case diameter doesn’t tell the whole story. With a 48mm lug-to-lug measurement, this 38mm chronograph wears comparable to a Rolex Daytona, making it a legitimate option for men who prefer a smaller case or women who like something substantial.
- Case size: 38mm diameter, 48mm lug-to-lug
- Thickness: 11mm
- Material: Rose gold with diamond bezel
- Dial: Silver (or white)
- Updated case design with thicker beveled edge compared to previous reference 26315
This watch works for anyone wanting a true midsize Royal Oak chronograph, whether that’s a woman who appreciates larger watches or a man with a smaller wrist looking for proper proportions.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 41mm Stainless Steel Silver Dial 26240ST.OO.1320ST.07
The 26240ST represents the complete redesign AP rolled out for the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary in 2022. The reviewer notes that while everything looks more or less the same as the previous generation, the entire watch was revamped with numerous improvements in the details.
- Case size: 41mm diameter
- Lug-to-lug: 51mm (54mm including integrated end link)
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dial: Silver (appears white)
- Available in steel with four dial colors only: black, white, blue, and green
The 26240ST is for the collector who wants the definitive steel Royal Oak chronograph with all the refinements AP made for the anniversary edition.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 41mm White Gold Smoked Blue Dial 26240BC.OO.1320BC.04
This special edition 26240BC features a smoked blue dial that the reviewer describes as much richer than the standard blue on steel versions. The gradient effect fades from the center toward the edges, creating a look distinct from any steel Royal Oak.
- Case size: 41mm diameter
- Thickness: 12.4mm
- Material: White gold
- Dial: Smoked blue with gradient effect
- Special edition released in 2025 for certain markets in limited quantities
- The only straight white gold chronograph available (excluding frosted versions)
This one is for collectors who want the subtle weight and prestige of gold in a watch that reads as understated steel from a distance, with a dial color you won’t find anywhere else in the lineup.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Rose Gold Brown Index 41mm Brown Leather 26331OR.OO.D821CR.01
The 26331OR on leather showcases the Grande Tapisserie pattern in brown, which the reviewer highlights as a beautiful complement to the rose gold case. The sub-dials feature a matte center with high polish outer tracks, and the index markers provide green luminosity that glows well in the dark.
- Case size: 41mm
- Material: Rose gold
- Dial: Brown Grande Tapisserie pattern
- Strap: Brown leather
- Luminous index hour markers with dots behind them for dark readability
- Date window between 4 and 5 o’clock at a diagonal, no magnification needed
This configuration suits someone who wants a dressier take on the Royal Oak chronograph, with the leather strap softening the sporty character of the design.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Rose Gold Brown Index 41mm Rose Gold Bracelet 26331OR.OO.1220OR.02
The bracelet version of the brown dial 26331OR comes in at only 11mm thick, which the reviewer notes as impressive for a chronograph. The 18k pink gold bracelet combines brushed outer edges with high polish corners and internal links, creating what’s described as a glowing presentation.
- Case size: 41mm diameter
- Thickness: 11mm
- Material: 18k pink gold case and bracelet
- Water resistance: 50 meters
- Movement: Caliber 2385, 40 hours power reserve
- Movement specs: 26.22mm, 3Hz (21,600 vph), 304 parts, 37 jewels
This watch works for anyone getting into chronograph movements or expanding into Audemars Piguet, calling it a staple among AP collectors and enthusiasts.
The Royal Oak Chronograph collection offers something for every preference, from the midsize 38mm to the full 41mm, in steel, rose gold, or white gold. Whether you want the understated versatility of steel or the presence of a full gold bracelet, these chronographs deliver the iconic AP design with serious horological substance. Shop all Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph watches
