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The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 “Cactus Jack” Travis Scott Limited Edition: A Professional Review
Introduction
Audemars Piguet, a name synonymous with horological innovation and luxury, has once again captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts with the release of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01, a collaboration with the acclaimed rapper and creative force, Travis Scott, under his “Cactus Jack” brand. This limited edition timepiece, unveiled in 2024, is not only a testament to the technical prowess of Audemars Piguet but also a bold statement in contemporary watch design. In this review, I will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the watch, examining its design, technical features, wearability, and collectability, and ultimately, why it deserves a place in your collection.
Design and Aesthetics
The Royal Oak 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 “Cactus Jack” is a visual tour de force, blending the iconic Royal Oak silhouette with Travis Scott’s distinctive creative vision. The case, measuring 41mm in diameter and 9.5mm in thickness, is crafted entirely from brown ceramic—a first for Audemars Piguet. The choice of brown ceramic is both daring and sophisticated, offering a warm, earthy tone that stands apart from the more traditional black or white ceramic cases. The material is not only visually striking but also highly resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring the watch maintains its allure over time.
The signature octagonal bezel, secured by eight hexagonal screws, remains true to the Royal Oak’s DNA, while the integrated bracelet, also in brown ceramic, provides a seamless and comfortable fit on the wrist. The finishing is exemplary, with alternating brushed and polished surfaces that play beautifully with light, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship for which Audemars Piguet is renowned.
The dial is where the “Cactus Jack” collaboration truly comes to life. Rendered in a smoked brown hue, the dial features the classic “Grande Tapisserie” pattern, but with several playful and unconventional twists. The subdials for the perpetual calendar functions—day, date, month, and moonphase—are adorned with Cactus Jack motifs. Most notably, the moonphase at 6 o’clock is replaced by a stylized, luminescent Cactus Jack smiley face, adding a touch of whimsy and personality. The hands and hour markers are coated with luminescent material, ensuring legibility in low light, while the “Audemars Piguet” and “Cactus Jack” signatures are subtly integrated into the design.
Technical Mastery
At the heart of the 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 beats the self-winding Caliber 5135, a movement that exemplifies Audemars Piguet’s commitment to technical excellence. The perpetual calendar complication is one of the most revered in watchmaking, automatically accounting for the varying lengths of months and leap years, requiring no manual adjustment until the year 2100. The movement operates at 19,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.
The sapphire caseback reveals the beautifully finished movement, with Côtes de Genève, perlage, and a 22-carat gold oscillating weight engraved with the “Cactus Jack” logo. The attention to detail is extraordinary, and the movement’s slim profile allows the watch to maintain its elegant proportions despite the complexity of its functions.
Wearability and Comfort
Despite its robust ceramic construction and complex movement, the Royal Oak “Cactus Jack” wears remarkably comfortably on the wrist. The 41mm case size is versatile, suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes, and the integrated bracelet ensures a secure and ergonomic fit. Ceramic, while more brittle than metal, is lightweight and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for daily wear. The watch’s slim profile allows it to slip easily under a cuff, while its distinctive color and design ensure it stands out in any setting.
Exclusivity and Collectability
Limited to just 200 pieces worldwide, the Royal Oak 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 “Cactus Jack” is a true collector’s item. The collaboration with Travis Scott, one of the most influential figures in contemporary music and fashion, adds a layer of cultural significance that extends beyond traditional watch collecting circles. Each piece is individually numbered, and the scarcity of the edition ensures strong demand and potential for appreciation in value over time.
The watch is delivered in a special presentation box, co-branded with Audemars Piguet and Cactus Jack logos, and includes a brown calfskin strap with a titanium folding clasp, offering an alternative to the ceramic bracelet for those seeking a different look or feel.
Why You Should Buy It
1. **Unparalleled Craftsmanship**: Audemars Piguet’s reputation for quality and innovation is on full display, from the intricate finishing of the ceramic case and bracelet to the sophisticated perpetual calendar movement.
2. **Unique Design**: The brown ceramic case and Cactus Jack-inspired dial set this watch apart from any other Royal Oak, making it a conversation piece and a work of wearable art.
3. **Cultural Relevance**: The collaboration with Travis Scott bridges the worlds of haute horlogerie and contemporary culture, appealing to both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts drawn by the artist’s influence.
4. **Investment Potential**: With only 200 pieces produced, the watch’s rarity and desirability are likely to drive strong secondary market performance, making it not only a pleasure to own but also a sound investment.
5. **Versatility**: Despite its bold design, the watch remains versatile enough for both formal and casual occasions, thanks to its balanced proportions and refined aesthetic.
Conclusion
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 26585CM.OO.D301VE.01 “Cactus Jack” is a masterful fusion of tradition and innovation, luxury and street culture. It is a watch that commands attention, rewards close inspection, and offers a unique ownership experience. For those seeking a timepiece that embodies the cutting edge of modern watchmaking while paying homage to one of the most iconic designs in horology, this limited edition Royal Oak is an opportunity not to be missed.
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