Carbon revolution: The Royal Oak concept's bold new era

In the world of luxury timepieces, Audemars Piguet has always been synonymous with innovation and artistry, and their latest creation is no exception. This striking new 43mm Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date is a noteworthy addition to its celebrated collection, showcasing a revolutionary new material: coloured forged carbon. Created in the brand’s R&D workshops using Chroma Forged Technology (CFT), this deep black carbon isn't just about looks; it combines beauty with durability making it suitable for everyday wear.

The CFT carbon is not only ultra-light but also exceptionally resilient to heat, humidity, and shocks, so it can stand up to the rigours of daily life making it a perfect companion for those who live on the go. Each case is uniquely patterned due to the meticulous handcrafting process that involves layering coloured carbon fibres, offering a fresh, contemporary aesthetic - visually, it’s a feast for the eyes. The interplay of dark tones punctuated by electric blue accents create quite a contrast. The bezel, crown, and push-pieces are crafted from black ceramic for a sleek finish that enhances the watch’s sporty demeanour. The glowing blue luminescent pigments add some unexpected flair.

“Audemars Piguet was the first brand to introduce forged carbon to watchmaking in 2007,” says Lucas Raggi, Research and Development Director at the Maison. “After five years of research and development, we are proud to present a brand new generation of forged carbon, which can be coloured while retaining its excellent mechanical properties.”

At its heart, the watch is powered by the self-winding Calibre 4407 movement with a flyback chronograph and split-seconds functionality, as well as a GMT function keeping you connected to the world, a feature that will be appreciated by frequent travellers.

The openworked dial is thoughtfully designed to mimic the bridge of a movement and reveal a glimpse of the micro-mechanics at work. Here Audemars Piguet’s expertise in horological artistry and the precision of the machining is on full display. As an added touch of whimsy, the white gold hour markers and hands are filled with luminescent material that glows a soft blue in the dark.

The company’s latest release is a bold statement of style and modern luxury, harmonising craftsmanship with avant-garde design. The introduction of coloured forged carbon that is entirely free of porosity marks a new chapter in the use of watchmaking materials. Chief Executive Officer at Audemars Piguet, Ilaria Resta, is thrilled with the possibilities: “This new CFT carbon is testament to our teams’ expertise and to the endless quest for innovation that has driven Audemars Piguet since its inception in 1875. It also opens up new creative horizons, promising many surprises for Haute Horlogerie enthusiasts in the years to come.”