ROYAL OAK CHAMPIONSHIP MODEL, REF. 56175TT, CASE NO. E6435, NO. 1'625, CIRCA 1995

Audemars Piguet has long experimented with unconventional materials, and tantalum remains among the most distinctive employed by the manufacture. Prized for its considerable density, durability and characteristic bluish-grey hue, the metal provides a particularly striking contrast when combined with more traditional case materials.

Introduced in 1990, the Royal Oak ‘Championship’ reference 56175TT was produced in a limited edition of 2'000 pieces to commemorate Sir Nick Faldo’s consecutive victories at the Masters Tournament and The Open Championship. The reference is particularly significant for its unusual two-tone construction combining stainless steel and tantalum, marking the first time Audemars Piguet employed this specific pairing on the Royal Oak. While the manufacture had previously combined tantalum with pink gold, reference 56175TT represented its first execution in steel and tantalum.

Measuring an elegant 33 mm. in diameter, the watch is powered by Audemars Piguet’s quartz calibre 2612 and features a practical date indication. The caseback is engraved ‘Championship’, immediately identifying this special edition and providing a direct reference to the sporting achievements that inspired its creation.