Audemars Piguet Marries The Art Of Cermaic With The Legacy Of Blue Nuit

Some colours tell a story and the Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50 isn’t just a shade of blue, it’s a legacy. It’s the deep, enigmatic blue of the Vallée de Joux night sky, the same shade that Gérald Genta immortalized on the first-ever Royal Oak in 1972. But blue is more than just a color; it’s a feeling. In colour theory, blue signifies depth, stability, and innovation qualities that define both Audemars Piguet and its relentless pursuit of excellence. Dark blue, in particular, is associated with wisdom and confidence, making it a fitting tribute to a brand that has been shaping haute horlogerie for 150 years.

Now, after years of meticulous research, this iconic hue makes its way to ceramic for the very first time. The result? Two striking Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronographs that push the boundaries of material and design. This timepiece represents a joyful fusion of tradition and modernity. A tribute to the skies that inspired a legend. And a reminder that some icons only get better with time.

Audemars Piguet’s legendary "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50"—a shade born from the mesmerizing night skies of the Vallée de Joux—has been an emblem of the brand’s heritage since Gérald Genta first introduced it on the Royal Oak’s dial in 1972 (Ref. 5402). Now, for the first time, this iconic hue extends beyond the dial, gracing ceramic in two bold new Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronographs. This remarkable evolution is the result of years of research and innovation, blending avant-garde materials with traditional craftsmanship. More than just a colour, this deep blue is a tribute to Le Brassus, the birthplace of Audemars Piguet, and a symbol of its unyielding pursuit of excellence.

Introducing “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” Ceramic

Marrying high-tech precision with meticulous hand-finishing, the application of "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" to ceramic was a feat of both engineering and artistry. Achieving a perfectly uniform, reproducible hue demanded years of development, ensuring that every component—no matter its shape or texture—exudes the same captivating depth. Now joining Audemars Piguet’s ceramic repertoire of white, black, brown, blue, green, and grey, this groundbreaking shade pushes the boundaries of modern watchmaking. It embodies the Maison’s philosophy: where tradition meets relentless innovation. “The sky of the Vallée de Joux has always been a guiding force for Audemars Piguet, inspiring one of our most iconic hues. This new ceramic is a tribute to our home, our heritage, and our commitment to pushing the limits of watchmaking, “ says Ilaria Resta, CEO, Audemars Piguet. 

Two New Royal Oak Offshore Chronographs

42 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph

Designed for those who demand bold style and high performance, the 42 mm Royal Oak Offshore is crafted entirely in "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" ceramic, presenting a striking monochromatic aesthetic. Every detail—from the inner bezel to the signature “Méga Tapisserie” dial and chronograph counters—celebrates this legendary colour. The bezel’s white gold hexagonal screws and luminous 18-carat white gold hands and hour markers offer subtle contrast, enhancing the timepiece’s sporty yet refined presence. For the first time, the Royal Oak Offshore features a fully integrated ceramic bracelet, with meticulously designed pins seamlessly connecting the studs to the links, ensuring an elegant and cohesive finish.

43 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph

In a daring fusion of materials, the 43 mm Royal Oak Offshore combines robust stainless steel with "Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50" ceramic, used for the bezel, push-pieces, and crown. This striking two-tone contrast extends to the dial, where the “Méga Tapisserie” motif enhances the watch’s powerful, masculine design. The chronograph counters, presented in a lighter blue with crisp white numerals, ensure optimal readability, while luminous 18-carat white gold hands and hour markers provide effortless legibility in any light. The timepiece is fitted with a textured calfskin leather strap in matching blue and includes an additional rubber strap with AP’s signature interchangeability system.

The Power Within: Cutting-Edge Movements

At the heart of these timepieces are Audemars Piguet’s latest-generation selfwinding chronograph movements:

42 mm model- Powered by Calibre 4404, featuring an integrated flyback chronograph.

43 mm model- Equipped with Calibre 4401, a high-performance movement with a column wheel mechanism.

Both calibres offer unparalleled precision and craftsmanship, visible through a sapphire caseback that reveals the intricate workings of the chronograph, including its refined decorations and dedicated oscillating weight. This artistic exploration celebrates the heritage and innovation that define Audemars Piguet, proving that some colours aren’t just seen—they’re experienced.