Historic watch houses have their own unique aesthetics and design codes, along with the traditions they have fostered. Using Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak Offshore, which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year, as an example, let’s reveal the ‘DNA’ behind the iconic collection and model.
Pen’s latest release is “Let’s Talk About Watch Design.” By focusing on the ‘design’ of watches, we look at their history and details, revealing their appeal as a product. At the same time, we spoke to the creator of the product, a designer from a famous brand. Knowing the “essence” of the design will make the watches more interesting.
“Let’s talk about watch design.”
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An icon should not only have originality such as design and technology, but also the soul of the brand. That’s why, unlike a symbol, it became a symbol. Royal Oak Offshore is proof of that.
The original first generation was developed to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the debut of the Royal Oak, which was introduced in 1972, as a sports line aimed at the younger generation.
The Royal Oak Offshore, released in 1993, clearly distinguished itself with its dynamic chronograph function. However, what attracted more attention was the large, thick case. The muscular design, which embodied the extreme lifestyle of the time, was dubbed a “monster” and caused mixed reviews. But perhaps that was expected. Royal Oak was once called Jumbo when it was first released.
On the other hand, it has received great support from the new generation of creative people, and has also swept the fields of culture and sports. This year it celebrates its thirtieth anniversary as a completely independent group, a tremendous achievement in the field of luxury sports watches. This is where the rebellious spirit of the brand lies, constantly resisting and challenging.
“Royal Oak Offshore” three-point design
Design point 1: Integrated case bracelet
The bracelet, which stands out in unity with the case, has become a representative style of luxury sports since its adoption in the Royal Oak. The clear finish of the hair emphasizes the sporty character while giving it a mirror finish.
Design point 2: Octagon frame and screw fixing
The hexagonal screws on the octagonal bezel, representing the “Royal Oak” symbol, are elegantly aligned towards the centre. The lines are installed by attaching the three-piece case body with screws from the back.
Design point 3: decorative dial
The blue dial, called ‘Night Blue, Cloud 50’, is decorated with a square mesh using a traditional plaiting machine, with mesh on the convex parts and a fine texture on the concave parts.
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