The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore reference 26170ST is a bold and instantly recognizable icon among luxury sports chronographs. Produced for many years (from the early 2000s until about 2018), the 26170ST is crafted in robust stainless steel (hence the “ST” in the reference), measuring an impressive 42mm across. It features the distinctive octagonal bezel locked in place by exposed hexagonal screws—a direct nod to Gérald Genta’s original Royal Oak from 1972—but beefed up for the Offshore’s even more muscular, contemporary look.
The dial, often referred to as the "Méga Tapisserie," has a large checked pattern that adds visual depth and sportiness. Most commonly, the 26170ST features black subdials, prominent Arabic numeral hour markers, large luminous hands, and a date display at 3 o’clock, all secured under a glare-resistant sapphire crystal. The chronograph pushers and crown are protected by chunky, rugged guards, and the integrated rubber or leather strap makes it comfortable for sporty, daily wear.
Inside, the 26170ST is powered by the dependable automatic Caliber 3126/3840—a combination of AP’s in-house base with a Dubois-Dépraz chronograph module, providing a solid 50 hours of power reserve.
History & Significance:
The Royal Oak Offshore series debuted in 1993, masterminded by designer Emmanuel Gueit as an even sportier, more daring evolution of the original Royal Oak. At 42mm, it was a true “beast”—redefining what was considered big for a luxury sports watch in the '90s, and breaking new ground for youthful, muscular luxury.
The 26170ST became one of the most popular and frequently iterated references, offering a huge variety of dial colors and strap combinations. Its robust build, presence on the wrist, and distinctive design cemented its status with athletes, celebrities, and watch enthusiasts alike. Over time, the reference became synonymous with status, taste, and adventure, making it not just a watch but a cultural icon within the world of haute horlogerie.
The model’s discontinuation only added to its appeal, with enthusiasts seeking it out as “the classic Offshore” that captures the original bold spirit of the line—before the Offshore collection moved towards larger, flashier, and more colorful variants.