Watch OverviewAudemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 26331BA with a blue dial represents a striking convergence of classic design, bold material choices, and contemporary refinement within the Royal Oak family. Released in 2017 as part of the 20th anniversary of the Royal Oak Chronograph, the 26331 series introduced subtle but meaningful changes to the iconic chronograph design that had been part of Audemars Piguet’s lineup since 1997. While the Royal Oak itself debuted in 1972 and redefined what a luxury sports watch could be, the chronograph version built on that DNA by adding mechanical complexity and visual dynamism. The 26331BA stood out immediately—not only for its luxurious 18k yellow gold case and bracelet but for the way its deep blue Grande Tapisserie dial played with light, offering dramatic contrast and vivid saturation that was both modern and deeply rooted in the Royal Oak’s aesthetic heritage. The choice of yellow gold for the 26331BA was a bold move at a time when the trend had long shifted toward white metals, such as stainless steel and white gold. However, Audemars Piguet leaned into its legacy of precious metal sports watches and revived a style that had been more common in the 1970s and 1980s. The result was a reference that immediately felt special, even polarizing. Combined with the blue dial and its vertically aligned subdials—one of the refinements introduced in the 26331 series—the watch conveyed a sense of classic opulence, but with an unmistakably contemporary edge. The updated layout and sharpened dial details gave the chronograph a fresh identity while maintaining its connection to earlier references. At the heart of the 26331BA is the tried-and-true Caliber 2385, a column-wheel chronograph movement based on the Frédéric Piguet 1185. Though not an in-house development, it had been used reliably by Audemars Piguet for decades and was celebrated for its thinness and smooth functionality. While some purists hoped for a fully integrated in-house chronograph, most collectors accepted and appreciated the movement’s proven track record, particularly within the slim case profile it allowed. Over time, the 26331BA has carved out a distinctive place in the Royal Oak chronology. Its yellow gold case makes it instantly recognizable, and the blue dial—far from being a novelty—has become one of the most sought-after configurations among Royal Oak enthusiasts. Collectors often describe it as the perfect blend of sporty aggression and dressy elegance. While it may not be as understated as a steel chronograph, the 26331BA never aimed to be. It was designed to be noticed and admired, to reflect the character of someone who appreciates traditional craftsmanship executed in a fearless way. Today, the blue dial 26331BA is considered a modern classic within the Audemars Piguet portfolio. It appeals to seasoned collectors looking for something bolder than steel, yet more nuanced than full rose gold or platinum. With the ongoing evolution of the Royal Oak and the growing desire for pieces that break away from the safe norms of monochrome tool watches, the 26331BA stands as a reminder that luxury watchmaking can still be daring, colorful, and unapologetically confident.