MichaelC[AP Moderator]
18888
I will not argue with this watch being designated the "King" of AP Offshores.
Sep 06, 2014,08:33 AM
It took me some time to agree with this title though.
Part of my DNA is to immediately disagree with such a proclamation as it pertains to anything in life - a watch, an athlete, etc. That is my initial reaction, always thinking of an alternative. When this Rubens Barrichello II launched, I remember my sales associate at the AP Boutique in Bal Harbour telling me he did not think he would have enough to secure one for me. "No problem" I said; I did not even want it.
I certainly found the design alluring, but with no interest in Formula 1 racing, it did not scream must own to me. Until last summer, I had never previously held a titanium RB2. In fact, I only once held an RB2 at all. A pink gold model in 2007 in Valencia, Spain. So my exposure was extremely limited. And the insane resale prices of this particular model were certainly a turn off.
But finally getting to hold one changed my feelings in a heartbeat. The level of detail on this watch is astounding. I have posted many times about the Juan Pablo Montoya being the single Audemars Piguet Offshore to really break the mold on audacity and daring, but the RB2 elevates these criteria and in my humble opinion, is the pinnacle of all Royal Oak Offshore chronograph designs. We have seen many successful Offshores since, several F1 inspired. Would I select any of these others off a table if the RB2 were there as well? No. Definitely no.
Thank you for your insightful post and wonderful photo set Wayne. I have plans to bring forth a detailed review on this watch at some point, and am pleased to read your thoughts on it now. I have a feeling this watch will end up in your personal collection too ;-)