To break the rules, you must first master them. That’s the luxury Swiss watchmaker’s message around their fresh timepiece. And they did break the rules with this one, but not like you think. After five years of work, they created what easily could stand as one of the most complex chronographs in the world. What makes it even more special is the fact it originated with the brand’s ambassador, Michael Schumacher.
When we first heard of the new Royal Oak Concept Laptimer, we thought connecting it to the seven-time Formula One World Champion was mean marketing. Similar to what you guys probably thought, using Michael Schumacher name is not the most honorable way to sell your merchandise. However, we thought it was worth checking out, just to make sure.
It turns out the unique timepiece was, in fact, built for Schumacher’s requirements, as the legendary driver asked the company, back in 2010, to create one mechanical watch specifically for motorsport use. Schumy needed one from which bystander on the sidelines can measure every single lap for an extended series of consecutive laps. Instead of using two watches to do so, he wanted one. That’s pretty much what this new luxury timepiece stands for.
The Swiss claim the Royal Oak Concept Laptimer Michael Schumacher is the first luxury watch to feature a single chronograph driving two central hands that can be controlled independently. Smooth and powerful, it measures sequential lap time down to one-eighth of a second. The rare timepiece is limited to only 221 units, a number that echoes the F1 racer’s points-winning races.
The Forged Carbon case with a titanium bezel and case back are accentuated with ceramic and pink gold push pieces and glare-proofed sapphire crystal. The open-worked black dial contains a 30-minute counter while the hands are gold Royal Oak with a luminescent coating.
This rare piece of jewelry is not only designed for race car drivers, but considering its priced at $229.500 you’re going to have to be one actually to afford it.
Google News