Famous for its clear hue, the unique hue of the night sky over the Vallée de Joux has inspired the imagination and creativity of Audemars Piguet’s artisans for generations. It was this deep blue hue that inspired Gérald Genta to reproduce it on the dial of the first Royal Oak watch (reference 5402) in 1972.
Today, this iconic blue hue is used in ceramic for two unique Royal Oak Offshore Automatic Chronographs. The result of several years of research and development, this material reflects Audemars Piguet’s constant pursuit of innovation in design and materials, while also paying tribute to the Brassus region where Audemars Piguet was founded 150 years ago.
Discover the new “BLEU NUIT, NUAGE 50” ceramic
This unique material combines high-tech processing with traditional finishing, bringing together various modern watchmaking techniques. While several years of research and development went into applying the “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” hue to ceramic and ensuring that the tone could be reproduced evenly, each watch component undergoes meticulous hand-finishing in the final stages of production to further enhance the depth of color and intensify the effects of light.
Available now in white, black, brown, blue, green and grey, ceramic continues to push the boundaries of style and functionality, reflecting the brand’s enduring commitment to exploring materials by combining tradition with innovation.
“The skies of the Vallée de Joux have played a major role in Audemars Piguet’s history, inspiring the colour ‘Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50’, which has become one of the brand’s signature elements. The launch of this new ceramic is a tribute to the region and its talent, as well as our relentless pursuit of innovation.” Ilaria Resta, CEO of Audemars Piguet.
Two Royal Oak Offshore Automatic Chronographs
The 42mm Royal Oak Offshore Automatic Chronograph in ‘Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50′ ceramic features a dynamic monochrome design that echoes the tones of the inner bezel, ‘Méga Tapisserie’ dial and chronograph counters. The eight white gold hexagonal screws on the bezel and the luminescent 18-carat white gold hands and hour markers create a subtle contrast to the homogenous aesthetic. The watch is also available with a new ceramic bracelet, whose pins connecting the rivets to the links are now seamlessly integrated for an elegant effect.
The Royal Oak Offshore Automatic Chronograph 43mm features a bezel, pushers and crown in stainless steel and “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic, and its strong two-tone aesthetic continues on the dial. Its matching “Méga Tapisserie” pattern accentuates the watch’s muscular silhouette, while also providing the perfect backdrop for the 18-carat hands and indices filled with luminescent material. The counters are light blue with white indications to enhance contrast and provide optimal readability. The watch is presented on a textured calfskin strap that matches the color of the ceramic, with an interchangeable system and a complimentary blue rubber strap.
The two new creations are equipped with the Manufacture’s latest integrated automatic chronograph movements. The 43mm model is equipped with Calibre 4401, while the 42mm model is equipped with Calibre 4404, and both feature a flyback function that allows the wearer to reset and restart the chronograph without having to stop it first. In addition to showcasing the movement’s exquisite decoration and dedicated rotor, the sapphire caseback offers a glimpse into the inner workings of the column wheel, blending aesthetic refinement with watchmaking excellence. fashion fake watches
An Artistic Exploration of Blue
Hugo Mapelli presents the world of “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” in an experimental way, combining traditional techniques with modern equipment for a unique visual experience. The Parisian photographer’s dialectical approach reflects the historical significance behind the iconic blue, while drawing inspiration from Audemars Piguet’s relentless exploration of materials.