Royal Oak Chronograph family · 12 references Audemars Piguet

Royal Oak Chronograph 26240

41mm Consistent Pricing
Low $59,640
Median $62,924
High $66,998
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The Royal Oak Chronograph 26240ST pairs the familiar steel octagon and Grande Tapisserie dial with a chronograph movement worth turning the watch over to see. Introduced in 2022, it brought the steel 41mm model into the era of Audemars Piguet’s in-house caliber 4401, with a flyback function and a sapphire back replacing the closed back of the preceding generation.

The distinction matters beyond the view: the flyback lets you restart a running chronograph with one press rather than stopping, resetting, and starting again. For a little anniversary character, look for a 2022 example with the special 50th-anniversary rotor; later watches retain the same movement without that commemorative detail. On any example, pay particular attention to the bezel’s brushed surface and polished bevels. Their crisp separation is central to the Royal Oak’s architecture, and heavy refinishing can soften precisely what makes it so satisfying on the wrist.

MovementAutomatic
Caliber4401
Case MaterialStainless Steel
Case Size41mm
Water Resistance50m

What owners love

  • The integration of the chronograph subdials into the iconic tapisserie dial is widely praised for maintaining the Royal Oak's signature look while adding functionality without clutter.
  • Owners highlight the satisfying tactile feel and crisp actuation of the chronograph pushers, noting a noticeable improvement over previous generations.
  • The updated caliber 4401 is appreciated for its column wheel, flyback capability, and exhibition caseback, finally giving enthusiasts a view of the movement and a modern chronograph experience.

Common Criticisms

  • The case thickness, increased by the new movement, makes the watch wear noticeably bulkier than earlier Royal Oak chronographs, drawing frequent criticism.
  • Bracelet sizing and fit are a recurring frustration, with some owners reporting discomfort or difficulty achieving a perfect fit due to limited half-link options.
  • Availability remains a major issue, with many longtime collectors expressing frustration at allocations favoring new clients or VIPs over loyal enthusiasts.

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