Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi Limited Edition

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi Limited Edition 26325OL.OO.D005CR.01 (18K Pink Gold / Tantalum)

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Ref. 26325OL.OO.D005CR.01 is a limited edition of just 400 pieces created in tribute to Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. Introduced in 2012, this reference brings together the worlds of haute horology and elite sport, using an unconventional material combination — 18K pink gold with a tantalum bezel — that gives the watch a distinctive, darker personality compared to standard Royal Oak Chronographs.

The watch features a 41 mm brushed 18K pink gold case paired with an octagonal bezel crafted from tantalum, a rare, dense blue-grey metal prized for its corrosion resistance and unusual color. The eight signature hexagonal screws that secure the bezel stand in bold contrast against the darker tantalum surface. The dial represents a deliberate departure from Royal Oak convention: finished in satin-brushed anthracite without the collection's signature "Grande Tapisserie" pattern, creating a smooth, understated aesthetic that sets this limited edition apart. Pink gold-toned subdial rings provide warm contrast against the dark dial, while luminescent applied index hour markers and Royal Oak hands ensure legibility. Three chronograph counters are arranged across the dial: a small seconds subdial, a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, and a 12-hour counter, complemented by a date window. The caseback features a sapphire crystal display revealing the decorated movement.

The case construction includes a screw-locked crown, glareproofed sapphire crystal, and a water resistance of 50 meters (5 ATM).

Powering the watch is the Audemars Piguet Calibre 2385, a self-winding integrated chronograph movement based on the architecture of the renowned Frédéric Piguet Calibre 1185. It operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) with 37 jewels, comprising 304 individual components. The movement features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism with vertical clutch for smooth, precise start-stop operation of the chronograph hand. At just 5.50 mm in thickness, it is one of the flattest automatic chronograph movements in the world. The 22K gold rotor winds unidirectionally, providing a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.

The watch is delivered with two interchangeable straps — an anthracite hand-stitched alligator leather strap and an additional grey rubber strap — both fitted with an 18K pink gold AP folding clasp, offering versatility between formal and sporty wear.

Key Specifications

• Reference: 26325OL.OO.D005CR.01

• Collection: Royal Oak Chronograph — Leo Messi Limited Edition

• Year Introduced: 2012

• Limited Edition: 400 pieces worldwide

• Case Material: 18K pink gold

• Bezel: Octagonal, tantalum with eight hexagonal screws

• Diameter: 41 mm

• Thickness: approx. 11 mm

• Dial: Satin-brushed anthracite (no Tapisserie pattern), pink gold-toned counters

• Caseback: Transparent sapphire crystal

• Calibre: Audemars Piguet 2385, automatic integrated chronograph (base Frédéric Piguet 1185)

• Jewels: 37

• Total Components: 304

• Movement Thickness: 5.50 mm

• Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)

• Chronograph: Column wheel with vertical clutch

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph — 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, date

• Power Reserve: ~40 hours

• Rotor: 22K gold, unidirectional winding

• Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)

• Crown: Screw-locked

• Straps: Anthracite alligator leather + grey rubber (interchangeable), 18K pink gold AP folding clasp