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In the Vallée de Joux, where Audemars Piguet was founded 150 years ago, the sky still holds a particular kind of clarity. In 1972, that same sky inspired the now-iconic “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” dial of the first Royal Oak – a deep, lacquered blue with a subtle clouded effect, developed by dial maker Stern and brought to life by Gérald Genta’s original design. This year, that distinctive hue returns not on a dial, but in ceramic.
For the first time, the Maison has translated its signature blue into ceramic, revealing three new references from the Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore collections. The process, developed over several years, ensures a uniform tone across each ceramic component – a rare achievement in watchmaking that called for both technical innovation and meticulous hand-finishing.
The 41 mm Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked is entirely clad in “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic, with a rhodium-toned openworked movement framed by pink gold details. At its core is Calibre 3132, equipped with the brand’s patented double balance wheel system, visible from both the front and back. The sharply faceted case and bracelet, with alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces, reflect light with striking precision, true to the original Royal Oak’s architectural intent.
The 42 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph offers a more assertive take. Its case, bracelet, pushers and dial are all crafted in blue ceramic, with stainless steel screws and white gold details providing contrast. Inside, Calibre 4404 brings flyback chronograph functionality, a vertical counter layout, and an unobstructed view of the column wheel through the sapphire caseback.
Rounding off the trio, the 43 mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph combines stainless steel with “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” ceramic on the bezel, crown and pushers. The blue “Méga Tapisserie” dial is accented with lighter blue counters for clarity, while Calibre 4401 drives its chronograph functions. A textured calfskin strap (also in matching blue) completes the look, with an additional rubber strap included for a more contemporary finish.
Each model demonstrates Audemars Piguet’s ongoing mastery of materials. Ceramic – once used for ancient pottery, now reimagined for high-performance watchmaking – is treated with the same care and precision as gold or platinum. Every link, edge and surface is shaped and finished by hand, resulting in timepieces that feel both technically refined and aesthetically timeless.
The Vallée de Joux night sky that once sparked Genta’s imagination continues to define the spirit of Audemars Piguet. With “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” now realised in ceramic, the brand reaffirms its legacy in colour, craftsmanship and design – looking upwards, always forward.
