MAGAZINE
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01 : A Dive into Luxury and Precision
Mar
In the world of haute horology, few timepieces strike a balance between rugged functionality and refined elegance quite like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 42mm, reference 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01. Introduced around 2010, this watch marks a pivotal moment for Audemars Piguet (AP), blending the sporty legacy of the Royal Oak Offshore collection with the practical demands of a true diving companion. With its bold stainless steel case, iconic octagonal bezel, and a black “Méga Tapisserie” dial, it’s a piece that commands attention—whether on a dive boat or at a black-tie event. Let’s explore what makes this timepiece a standout in AP’s storied lineup.
A Legacy of Bold Design
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver traces its roots to the original Royal Oak, designed by Gerald Genta in 1972, which revolutionized luxury watchmaking with its audacious steel construction and integrated bracelet. The Offshore line, launched in 1993, took this concept further, amplifying the proportions and sportiness. By 2010, the Diver emerged as AP’s first ISO 6425-certified dive watch, with the 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01 leading the charge. Its 42mm stainless steel case, secured by eight hexagonal screws, retains the collection’s signature aesthetic while offering a robust 300-meter water resistance—rivaling icons like the Rolex Submariner and Omega Seamaster 300.
The black dial, adorned with the oversized “Méga Tapisserie” pattern, sets it apart from the finer Grand Tapisserie of its Royal Oak siblings. Paired with white gold hour markers and luminescent Royal Oak hands, it ensures readability in murky depths or dim lighting. A rotating inner bezel, operated by a crown at 10 o’clock, adds dive-time functionality, though some divers note its stiffness underwater. The black rubber strap completes the sporty look, fastened with a stainless steel pin buckle—a practical yet stylish touch.
[Image 1: Front view of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 42mm, showcasing the black “Méga Tapisserie” dial and rotating inner bezel.]Powering the Dive: The Caliber 3120
At the heart of this Offshore Diver beats the selfwinding caliber 3120, an in-house movement developed by AP between 1998 and 2003. Comprising 280 components and 40 jewels, it delivers a 60-hour power reserve at 21,600 vibrations per hour. The movement features a 22k gold rotor engraved with the Audemars and Piguet family crests, a nod to heritage. With features like ceramic ball bearings and hand-finished Côtes de Genève bridges, the caliber 3120 exemplifies AP’s commitment to precision and artistry. The solid stainless steel caseback, engraved with “Royal Oak Offshore,” ensures durability for underwater adventures.
[Image 2: Rear view of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 42mm, highlighting the solid stainless steel caseback with “Royal Oak Offshore” engraving.]Real-World Performance
The Offshore Diver isn’t just a desk trophy—it’s built for action. Tested by watch experts like those at Hodinkee in 2011, who took it 100 feet underwater off Bonaire, it earned praise for its lume-soaked visibility and comfortable 42mm fit. However, it’s not without quirks. The rubber strap, while sleek, can feel short over thicker wetsuits, and the internal bezel’s tight operation underwater has drawn mixed reviews. Still, its 300-meter rating and ISO certification make it a legitimate dive tool, even if its luxury pedigree shines brightest on land.
Market Presence and Value
Today, the 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01 remains a sought-after piece. New examples fetch between $25,772 and $32,995, while pre-owned models range from $17,495 to $32,058, per Chrono24 listings as of March 2025. With 70% of offerings including box and papers, its value holds strong in the secondary market, reflecting both its craftsmanship and enduring appeal. Enthusiasts on platforms like X continue to celebrate its duality—AP’s own posts highlight its versatility, while collectors showcase its timeless design.
A Modern Classic
The Royal Oak Offshore Diver 42mm isn’t just a watch; it’s a statement. It bridges the gap between the adrenaline of the deep sea and the sophistication of high society, all while carrying the weight of AP’s legacy. Though newer iterations like the 2021 reference 15720ST with interchangeable straps have emerged, the 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01 retains its status as a foundational piece—a testament to Audemars Piguet’s ability to evolve without losing sight of its roots.
For those seeking a luxury sports watch that doubles as a dive companion, this Offshore Diver delivers. It’s not the most practical tool for every underwater scenario, but its blend of bold design, reliable mechanics, and horological prestige makes it a worthy contender in any collection.
Specifications Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Diameter | 42mm |
| Thickness | 14.1mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | Approximately 52mm |
| Water Resistance | 300 meters (984 feet) |
| Dial | Black “Méga Tapisserie” with rotating inner bezel |
| Hands/Markers | White gold, luminescent coating |
| Movement | Caliber 3120, selfwinding, 280 parts, 40 jewels |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph (3 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | 60 hours |
| Strap | Black rubber with stainless steel pin buckle |
| Crystal | Glareproofed sapphire (front), solid stainless steel caseback |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, dive-time measurement |
Whether you’re a diver, a collector, or simply an admirer of fine timepieces, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver 42mm 15710ST.OO.A002CA.01 offers a compelling narrative—one of innovation, style, and unyielding craftsmanship. It’s a watch that doesn’t just tell time; it tells a story.
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