Pilot Lando Norris spotted wearing a Audemars Piguet

Lando Norris, McLaren's reigning frontrunner in the Formula 1 World Championship, was recently spotted wearing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph ref. 26715ST — a watch that carries considerably more horological weight than its understated appearance might suggest. The sighting adds another serious reference to a wrist portfolio that has consistently demonstrated genuine collector knowledge rather than mere brand recognition.

The ref. 26715ST was introduced in 2022 as a cornerstone of Audemars Piguet's 50th anniversary celebrations for the Royal Oak. Its 38mm stainless steel case is a deliberate and meaningful choice: it mirrors the dimensions of the very first Royal Oak chronograph, bringing the line back to its roots after years of size escalation. The deep blue dial is finished in the brand's signature Grande Tapisserie pattern — a more pronounced, three-dimensional texture compared to the Petite Tapisserie found on standard Royal Oak models — and the integration of the pushers, bezel, and bracelet remains as architecturally cohesive as ever. Powering the watch is the calibre 2385, an in-house integrated column-wheel chronograph movement with a 40-hour power reserve, beating at 21,600 vph.

From a collector standpoint, the 26715ST occupies a privileged position. Anniversary references from Audemars Piguet historically hold — and often appreciate — their value more aggressively than standard production pieces. The return to 38mm was broadly praised by serious collectors who had grown fatigued by the trend toward larger case sizes, and limited production runs have kept supply tight against persistent demand.

Norris has emerged as one of motorsport's most credible watch enthusiasts, moving well beyond ambassador appearances into genuine acquisition territory. His choice of the 26715ST aligns with a collector sensibility — this is not the most visible or loudest Royal Oak on the market, but it is arguably the most historically resonant chronograph variant currently in production.

At a retail price of $32,500 USD, the 26715ST is already a significant purchase. On the secondary market, however, it trades closer to $99,000 USD — a premium of roughly three times retail that reflects both its anniversary status and the enduring scarcity of desirable Royal Oak references across the grey market.