Footballer Kevin De Bruyne spotted wearing a Audemars Piguet

Kevin De Bruyne was photographed at an Asian press conference — judging by the signage visible in the background — wearing an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph in stainless steel with the iconic blue 'Grande Tapisserie' dial. The watch was confirmed to have been supplied by Diamonds East, a Boca Raton-based authorised dealer and Mondani Web partner.

The reference 26320ST.OO.1220ST.01 is the modern iteration of the Royal Oak Chronograph, introduced with the updated 41mm case that replaced the earlier 39mm ref. 26300. It houses the in-house Calibre 2385, a self-winding column-wheel chronograph movement with integrated construction — the very architecture that separates a true manufacture from an assembler. The movement beats at 21,600 vph and delivers approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The blue dial features AP's signature 'Grande Tapisserie' guilloche pattern, paired with silver-toned counters at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock — a contrast layout that keeps legibility sharp without compromising the dial's depth.

The Royal Oak Chronograph occupies a particularly interesting position within the Royal Oak family. Less hyped than the plain three-hand model, it offers considerably more mechanical complexity at a price point that, while still substantial, represents genuine movement value. Collectors who understand integrated-movement chronographs rate the 2385 calibre highly for its finishing and reliability. The blue dial variant has historically held strong secondary market values due to sustained demand from both new collectors and established enthusiasts.

De Bruyne's watch choices consistently reflect a preference for substance over spectacle — this is not a man reaching for the loudest piece in the room. The Royal Oak Chronograph on a steel bracelet, without diamond setting or exotic materials, aligns with that sensibility. It is a serious watch for someone who understands what they are wearing.

On the grey market, the 26320ST in blue dial commands a meaningful premium over retail, driven partly by AP's constrained supply of steel sports references. Expect to pay between $38,000 and $46,000 depending on condition, papers, and box completeness. Retail list price sits at approximately $35,300 USD, though new examples are rarely transacted at that figure.