What are the popular models in the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak series?
Popular Audemars Piguet Royal Oak models can be broadly categorized into five types: basic steel models, chronographs, perpetual calendars, skeleton/ultra-thin models, and offshore models. Below are the most popular and sought-after models and their features:
I. Basic Automatic Models (Jumbo Ultra-Thin, 39mm)
16202ST (Stainless Steel, Black/Blue Dial)
The classic “Jumbo,” 39mm, ultra-thin, with a see-through case back; the most popular steel model with a high premium.
15500ST (Stainless Steel, Silver/Blue/Black Dial)
The previous generation basic model, 41mm.
15513BA (18K Yellow Gold, 41mm)
A basic model in precious metals, with a gold dial and gold chain, exuding luxury.
II. Chronographs (mainly 41mm)
26240ST/OR (New in-house movement chronograph, flyback) Stainless steel/rose gold, “three-register,” Cal. 4401, flyback chronograph, 70-hour power reserve, blue dial, black dial, and panda dial are the most popular.
26331ST (Previous generation steel chronograph, discontinued) Classic steel chronograph, high resale value, popular in the pre-owned market.
26239OR (Rose gold chronograph, 41mm) Rose gold case and bracelet, with alligator leather strap, suitable for both formal and sporty occasions.
III. Perpetual Calendar (41mm, flagship complicated model)
26674SG (18K aventurine, perpetual calendar) Award-winning model from the 2025 Geneva Watch Fair, single crown adjustment, Cal. 7138, ultra-thin 9.5mm.
26674CD (“Cloud Night Blue” Ceramic Perpetual Calendar)
2026 New Model, all-ceramic case and bracelet, unified blue color, high list price, rare.
26685XT (Titanium Skeletonized Perpetual Calendar, RD#5) Skeletonized + perpetual calendar, Cal.7139 skeletonized movement.
IV. Skeletonized / Ultra-thin (High-end Craftsmanship Models)
16204XT (39mm Titanium Jumbo Skeletonized)
2026 New Skeletonized, titanium + block-shaped metal glass, Cal.7124, tonal aesthetics.
15416CD (“Cloud Night Blue” Ceramic Double Balance Wheel Skeletonized)
All-ceramic skeletonized, double balance wheel, strong visual impact.
V. Royal Oak Offshore (42mm+, Sporty and rugged)
26470ST (Stainless Steel Offshore, Black/Blue Dial)
Entry-level steel Offshore model, large size, strong sporty feel. whereguidewatch.com
26210OI (Forged Carbon Offshore, Limited Edition)
Forged carbon case, lightweight, durable, collectible.
Shopping Summary (by Popularity/Value Retention)
Steel Entry-level: 16202ST (Jumbo), 26240ST (Chronograph)
Premium Metal Dress Models: 26239OR, 15513BA
Complex Flagship Models: 26674SG (Aventurine Perpetual Calendar), 26685XT (Skeleton Perpetual Calendar)
Sporty and Rugged: Offshore 26470ST, 26210OI