The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date

If there was one takeaway from Audemars Piguet's recent drop of 2023 releases, it's that the brand is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to complication. On this front, the mind-bending Universelle speaks for itself, but the voice of the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date is just as loud, and just as proud an expression of technical brilliance. 

Audemars Piguet's concept collection is where the brand goes to play, and pushes itself forward, both technically and aesthetically. It's a proving ground for innovation and research that has been releasing surprising and sophisticated watches since way back in 2002. Instantly recognizable thanks to the avant-garde evolution of the famed Royal Oak case, and the mechanical wizardry within. 

Like all the concept pieces, this latest is ostensibly a Royal Oak, but one where the aesthetic codes of that iconic shape have been pushed to the absolute limits. At 43mm across and 17.4mm tall, there's no doubt that this is a big watch, but it's also not absolutely overwhelming, thanks to some smart design choices and on-the-wrist ergonomics. The case and bezel curve slightly to better hug the wrist of the wearer. Made from sandblasted titanium, and dominated by the bold facets of the case that follow the line from the famous octagonal bezel. Don't be fooled into thinking that this large (but lightweight) titanium case is a monolithic slab of metal — the design, especially from the profile, is full of dynamic cutaways and details. This is perhaps most evident in the chronograph pushers, well-integrated into the case, showing only a subtle, technical bulge balanced by the design of the left flank.

Of course, the case, while an integral part of the ROC identity, isn't the whole story here. We can't ignore the Calibre 4407, which is on full display front and back thanks to the open-worked German silver dial framed by a black inner bezel with tachymeter scale. This automatic movement is based on the Calibre 4401, which debuted in the Code 11:59 back in 2019. Upon this base, the R&D team at Audemars Piguet has undertaken significant work, first maximizing the energy efficiency of the calibre, allowing them to add in the Split Seconds and GMT. The split seconds mechanism allows for the simultaneous timing of two discrete events, with some help from the pusher at nine, which is inspired by the fan-favorite ROC Laptimer from 2015. In order to keep things as slim as possible, the split seconds mechanism has been fitted inside the rotor's ball-bearing and is actually visible through the caseback under the 'X'-shaped bridge. The GMT is another popular complication, and here it is hidden away at the three o'clock position. Then there's the big date at 12. On top of all that we've got a new oscillator with a Breguet overcoil for improved accuracy in the balance spring. 

All of this utility and technology has been finished to Audemars Piguet's exacting standards, with sandblasted black PVD and rhodium plating on every other surface. The Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date lives up to the legacy of the ROC collection. 

Finally, there's one last innovation that might not be as complicated as the split seconds mechanism, but it's one that wearers will find most welcome. For the first time, the ROC collection has a watch with an interchangeable strap. This new system has been integrated into the case and triple folding clasp to allow for a quick click-and-release system. 
 

The Royal Oak Concept pieces offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of Audemars Piguet. They aren't just a testing ground for ambitious new technologies and materials. They're a glimpse into the future direction of the brand. Based on all the indicators from the latest addition to the family, the future of AP is something to be excited about.