his new ceramic shade is inspired by the iconic “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” colour developed in 1972 to adorn the dial of the first Royal Oak (Model 5402). At the time, the Geneva-based dial-maker Stern developed this colour by adding black pigment n°50 to the protective varnish (called Zapon). The “cloud” effect is said to come from the chemical reaction produced by the small amount of black colour poured into the liquid lacquer.

The 41 mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked model is entirely crafted in “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic. This monochromatic aesthetic gives centre stage to the rhodium-toned openworked movement placed at dial level below the sapphire crystal, creating a striking visual contrast enhanced by pink gold details such as the hands and hour-markers.

Recreating this blue colour is a complex process, as the shade varies depending on the duration and temperature of the galvanic bath. Today, “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” dials are obtained using a PVD (Physical Vapour Desposition) process to ensure a homogenous colour. Whether due to its complexity or the enthusiasm surrounding the first Royal Oak model, the “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” hue has since become as iconic as the timepiece itself.

The 42 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph presents a more sportive monochromatic aesthetic. Its ceramic components echo the “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” hue of the inner bezel, Méga Tapisserie dial and chronograph counters. The homogenous aesthetic is subtly contrasted by the eight hexagonal screws in stainless steel punctuating the bezel, as well as the titanium crown chip and caseback.

“The sky of the Vallée de Joux has played a key role in the history of Audemars Piguet, inspiring the colour ‘Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50’, which is now one of the brand’s signature elements. The launch of this new ceramic is a tribute to both the region and its talents, and to our relentless quest for innovation,” stated Ilaria Resta, Chief Executive Officer at Audemars Piguet. This deep blue hue now graces ceramic to dress three models from the Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore collections. It joins the black, electric blue, green and brown hues already available in the collections.

The 43 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph boasts a two-toned design, combining stainless steel with “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic on the bezel, push-pieces and crown, for a powerful colour contrast that extends to the dial. With its “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” Méga Tapisserie pattern accentuating the timepiece’s robust silhouette, it serves as a perfect backdrop for the 18-karat hands and hour-markers filled with luminescent material.

Each watch component undergoes numerous production stages including machining, sintering and finishing. This final step is carried out by hand with the extreme care and dexterity of Audemars Piguet artisans, who grant ceramic components the same high-end level of finishing as precious metals, despite their hard and breakable nature. The depth of colour is further embellished by the alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces that create plays of light and highlight the multifaceted architecture of the Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore cases. Combining high-tech machining with traditional hand-finishing, this unique material brings together a wide range of modern watchmaking skills.

www.audemarspiguet.com