Audemars Piguet has broadened its Royal Oak Mini series with the introduction of two exquisite new quartz models. These latest additions, maintaining their compact 23mm size, now feature captivating stone dials, stepping away from the previous 'frosted' case aesthetic. This shift allows the intricate beauty of the black onyx and mother-of-pearl dials to take center stage, presenting a harmonious blend of classic design and contemporary elegance.
Details of the New Royal Oak Mini Timepieces
In February 2026, Audemars Piguet unveiled two new variations of its Royal Oak Mini watches, further enhancing a collection that first captivated enthusiasts in 2024. These petite timepieces, measuring a delicate 23 millimeters, are driven by the meticulously crafted quartz calibre 2730, known for its precision and extended seven-year battery life, along with an innovative power-saving switch function. Unlike their predecessors, which sported a 'frosted' finish, these new models showcase the classic Royal Oak treatment, featuring a sophisticated interplay of polished and satin-brushed surfaces on their cases. This refined finish is designed to accentuate the stunning stone dials: one in a lustrous, mirror-polished black onyx and the other in a brilliant, hyper-white mother-of-pearl.
The mother-of-pearl variant is encased in 18-carat yellow gold, maintaining a slim 6.6-millimeter profile. Its dial is adorned with yellow gold-toned hour markers and features luminescent hands, ensuring readability while preserving a clean, dateless aesthetic. The design pays homage to the original Genta creation with its brushed octagonal bezel, polished bevels, and integrated bracelet, all contributing to a timeless yet subtle presence on the wrist. The black onyx model, housed in a contrasting pink gold case, offers a deep, reflective dial. This version elevates its luxurious appeal with brilliant-cut, diamond-set hour markers that complement the pink gold hands. Both watches uphold a water resistance of 50 meters, making them suitable for everyday elegance and light aquatic activities. These exquisite timepieces are available now, with the mother-of-pearl dial model retailing at $38,400 and the diamond-set black onyx at $46,000, catering to those who appreciate understated luxury and precise craftsmanship.
The resurgence of elegantly proportioned, smaller watches highlights a shift towards subtle luxury and practical wearability. While a quartz movement might seem unconventional for a high-end brand, its inclusion in these Royal Oak Mini models is a deliberate choice, ensuring a slender profile and enhanced user convenience. This approach underscores a design philosophy that prioritizes aesthetics and wearability, without compromising the brand's commitment to exquisite finishing. The choice of rich onyx and timeless mother-of-pearl dials further softens the iconic Royal Oak aesthetic, while the classic brushed and polished case finishes maintain a connection to its legendary heritage. This expansion of the Royal Oak Mini collection reaffirms that true style and lasting appeal transcend mere size, proving that even in a miniature form, the Royal Oak continues to command significant respect and admiration within the world of horology.