The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph has garnered considerable attention since its introduction, boasting the iconic and sturdy Royal Oak case and bezel. Compared to the Royal Oak Offshore Chrono, the new Royal Oak Chronograph features a more balanced dial layout. However, despite the demand for genuine pieces, replica watches of this model have yet to gain popularity due to discrepancies from the authentic design.
Two prominent factories, BF and OMF, produce replicas of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph, each with its own merits and shortcomings. BF’s version suffers from a noticeable flaw in its dial design, with subdials positioned incorrectly, making it easily identifiable as a counterfeit. On the other hand, while OMF’s rendition boasts a correct dial layout, two of the small dials—located at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock—are non-functional, with their hands fixed in place, unlike the genuine watch where they operate as minute and hour chronograph counters.
OMF, once renowned for its Omega Speedmaster Chrono replicas, has seen a decline in business due to the pandemic and enforcement actions. Consequently, the factory has ceased regular releases of new replica watches and technological advancements. Despite offering the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph at a price exceeding $500, many potential buyers find it steep for a replica with such notable imperfections. Similarly, AR factory’s Daytona replica, while commendable, suffers from a flawed chronograph function, leading customers to opt for more expensive yet flawless alternatives from Noob.
While OMF possesses the capability to produce a superior replica Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph with functioning chronograph counters, they currently lack plans to develop a new movement. Nevertheless, the specifications of their existing model include:
- Movement: Asia 7750 Automatic Chronograph, featuring decorated base plate and auto rotor resembling the genuine AP 2385
- Case: 41mm*15mm, crafted from 316F Stainless Steel
- Bezel: 316F Stainless Steel
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Dial: Checkered Dial with SuperLume on Hour Markers and Hands
- Bracelet: 316F Stainless Steel with Deployant Clasp
- Water Resistance: 30m, as claimed by the factory
