Audemars Piguet

As we look forward to a new racing watch, let's remember the one that started it all...

 

The Juan Pablo Montoya.

If memory serves, this watch was released in 2004.  For those who might not recall, most reaction was less than flattering:

"Ugly!"

"AP has lost it!"

etc., etc.

Well, my Friends, the reality is that this creation deserves much credit for launching the "LE Offshore" craze, at least as it pertains to F1 themed models.

The watch featured a rather radical dial, bezel, pushers and crown, plots, and certainly the strap.  The details added up to awesome for me, and I bought the watch.  AP's use of carbon fiber was different than other brands, (hmm, when would we see that again??), and under a slightly glossy finish, the material offered a very three dimensional look.

It was also the first Offshore to feature an exhibition back, somewhat contrary to the "soft iron core" casing that was common to other models.  The rotor had special detailing, now so common on many auto-themed models.

Very comfortable and light, the watch was offered in a titanium case, red gold, and platinum (another theme we would see repeated on future editions with Offshore LEs), all with the carbon bezel and crown guards.

For a while this audacious nugget was traded around.  But after the dust settled, many discovered how special this piece was and it made a permanent addition for many AP enthusiasts.  Without question, the design of this watch would serve as a basis for the next F1 driver-themed watch, the Rubens Barrichello.  More recently, we saw the lines pushed even further with the carbon Grand Prix, and now we await the Michael Schumacher.

Please, share with me your thoughts on the JPM....
This message has been edited by MichaelC on 2012-10-11 12:52:28

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