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Politician Paolo Duterte spotted wearing Audemars Piguet

Paolo Duterte, the congressional representative for Davao City's 1st district and one of the Philippines' most closely watched political figures, has been photographed wearing an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph in 18-karat rose gold, reference 26400RO.OO.A002CA.01 — a watch that sits firmly at the intersection of haute horology and bold design.

The ref. 26400RO is a standout variant within the Royal Oak Chronograph family. Its 41mm case is crafted in 18-karat pink gold, while the bezel deploys brown ceramic — a material choice that adds both scratch resistance and a warm, earthy contrast to the metal. The dial is a smoked brown Grande Tapisserie pattern, a hallmark of the Royal Oak lineage since Gerald Genta's original 1972 design. Beneath the case sits the manufacture calibre 2385, a self-winding column-wheel chronograph movement with a lateral clutch, 21,600 vph frequency, and approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The movement is visible through the exhibition caseback and is finished to Audemars Piguet's exacting standards.

Within the collector community, the 26400RO occupies a specific and appreciated niche. Rose gold Royal Oak Chronographs have historically attracted buyers who want the sporting architecture of the octagonal bezel paired with precious metal warmth. The brown ceramic bezel reference in particular has developed a loyal following — it reads as more understated than a full precious-metal configuration while remaining unmistakably luxurious. Production of this specific configuration was limited in scope, which adds to its desirability on the secondary market.

Paolo Duterte's presence in Philippine public life has drawn sustained scrutiny, and his taste in watches has been noted before. A Royal Oak Chronograph in rose gold with a ceramic bezel retails in a range that places it among the more substantial acquisitions in Audemars Piguet's sport-watch catalogue, making it a significant statement for any public figure.

On the grey market, demand for rose gold Royal Oak Chronograph references has remained firm. Collectors seeking the 26400RO today will find it commanding a premium above retail, consistent with broader trends across the Royal Oak family, where supply constraints continue to support secondary market values.