Year: Circa 1990s
Reference No: 56175TT
Case No: D65’753, No. 1380
Model Name: Royal Oak Championship
Material: Tantalum and stainless steel
Calibre: Quartz, cal. 2612, 8 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel and tantalum Audemars Piguet bracelet stamped Gay Freres, max length 175mm
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Audemars Piguet deployant clasp
- Audemars Piguet has a long history of incorporating innovative materials into their timepieces to suit collectors' preferences. One of the most cherished materials is tantalum, admired for its luxurious weight, durability and sleek grey tone.
- In 1990, Audemars Piguet released the Royal Oak Championship ref. 56175TT as a limited edition of 2,000 pieces to commemorate Sir Nick Faldo's consecutive Masters Tournament and Open Championship victories. Striking due to the nuanced two-tone steel and tantalum case, this model is historically significant as the first Royal Oak to use this metal combination. While earlier models featured tantalum and pink gold, this was the first to combine steel and tantalum.
- Powered by Audemars Piguet's quartz cal. 2612 movement with a practical date function, this 33mm example offers an elegant, contemporary appeal ideal for daily wear. The "Championship" engraving on the case back immediately identifies this limited reference.
- Audemars Piguet's mastery of new materials and dedication to honoring legends of sport through dedicated timepieces converge in the Royal Oak Championship. For the discerning collector, this piece represents an opportunity to own a pivotal moment in the prestige watchmaker's history.