AP Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix Ceramic Bezel

ameriddd · 2013-11-23T12:28:39Z

See the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix 2.0 with a new ceramic bezel. Ameriddd shares his upgrade experience, solving forged carbon wear issues.

ameriddd

WPS member · Audemars Piguet forum

12 replies8464 views8 photos

Ameriddd shares a compelling upgrade story for his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix, addressing a common concern with its original forged carbon bezel. This post details the transformation of his watch with a new ceramic bezel, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved reference. The community's discussion highlights the aesthetic and practical implications of this significant modification.

12 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

From the second I picked up this watch two and a half years ago, the forged carbon bezel was my biggest complaint when the edges immediately started rubbing off with just my fingers. Over time, the sharp edges of the bezel started looking more and more worn and rounded. Then the new novelties arrived and their ceramic bezels were scratchproof, shiny yet subtle and just upped the classiness of the watches.

Fast forward to now, after a long 9 weeks in Clearwater, my issue is finally resolved and the Grand Prix is how it should have always been. The two parts of the bezel now match perfectly with the finish on the top half of the new ceramic bezel the same as the original bottom ceramic half. The completed bezel is I believe the only AP bezel other than the RB2 that is all ceramic and without the typical bottom half rubber gasket. The intricate vent feature really pops in ceramic.

What does everyone think of the Grand Prix 2.0?

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Key Points from the Discussion

The original forged carbon bezel on the Grand Prix model was prone to rubbing and wear on its edges, leading to a less refined appearance over time.
The new ceramic bezel resolves the wear issue and enhances the watch's classiness, with its finish perfectly matching the original bottom ceramic half.
The upgraded bezel is noted as potentially the only AP bezel, aside from the RB2, that is entirely ceramic without the typical rubber gasket, making the intricate vent feature more prominent.
Some collectors were unaware of the wear issues with forged carbon bezels, appreciating the unique swirls and patterns of the material despite its drawbacks.
There is interest in the cost and availability of this ceramic bezel upgrade for other Grand Prix owners, suggesting it could be a desirable modification.
The forged carbon bezel, while having wear issues, offered a distinct aesthetic with its polished ceramic base, which was appreciated by some.
Audemars Piguet has previously replaced forged carbon bezels under warranty, indicating an acknowledgment of the material's limitations.

The Discussion

ameriddd

Nov 23, 2013

few more pics

sorry mods, a few more pics.

Spellbound

Nov 23, 2013

It looks great

I didn't know there was that issue with the forged carbon bezels. It is a shame since I did love the swirls and smudges patterns on the forged carbon. Great watch that looks positively masculine and distinctive on the wrist. Was so close to buying one myself. Well done on the upgrade. Dean

Tony-GB

Nov 23, 2013

Absolutely fantastic (nt)

: )

Kasaasta

Nov 23, 2013

Wow, looks amazing

Congrats, that's a sweet upgrade! Do you mind sharing the cost, please? I'm looking to buy a GP quite soon and it would good to know the cost of the operation. Also, is that a one off bezel or are they now offering that upgrade to all GP owners?

MichaelC

Nov 23, 2013

This is an optional purchase through your AP Service Center.

Contact them for the details.

docfink

Nov 23, 2013

Looks great--

The way it should have been.